While last week’s heavy rain may have dampened Ireland’s mood, one florist is still giving Dubliners something to smile about. Lilla Zelenák, owner of The Green Door florists in Killester, has been leaving surprise bouquets in around the city for passers-by to pick up and bring home, as part of the Lonely Bouquet initiative.

The Lonely Bouquet is a movement dedicated to spreading happiness and smiles, one flower at a time. The initiative, which started in Belgium and has now spread across the globe, encourages florists in each country to place bouquets at bus stops, train stations and commuter areas with tags saying “Take me Home” or “Adopt Me” and aims to brighten up someone’s day after a long hard stint at work.

Various studies have shown that flowers in the home and office can significantly improve peoples’ moods. A recent study carried out by Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital found that a small bouquet of flowers in the home ‘perked participants up in the morning’ and ‘made them feel less anxious and more compassionate’. Meanwhile, research by the Society of American Florists of people who have received flowers discovered that 60% believe that the sight and smell of flowers can improve their mood whilst 56% feel special when they get flowers.

Lilla Zelenák, owner of The Green Door, comments; ‘As the first florist in Dublin to become a part of the Lonely Bouquet initiative, I’m hoping others around the country will get involved. It’s great to be able to bring such happiness to people with such a small gesture. I have already had great feedback, especially from one lady who simply said ‘it made up for having to be in work on a glorious sunny Saturday’.

‘Flowers can have a huge impact on our moods. You don’t have to buy giant bouquets or spend too much to reap the benefits they bring. A simple bunch of flowers or ornamental plant in the home or the office can really brighten up your day.’

Keep your eyes peeled at train stations and bus stops across the city this Monday as the Green Door for the latest Lonely Bouquet and make sure to share your experience on their Facebook if you’re lucky enough to find one.