Preserving Wedding Bouquet Flowers: Shadow Box Arrangement Guide

A wedding bouquet flower shadow box arrangement is a wonderful way to preserve and display your wedding flowers. There are many ways to create a gorgeous wedding flower shadow box, from drying the flowers to using silica gel to keep their radiant colour. You can also add decorative paper as a background and use hot glue to secure the flowers in the shadow box. Shadow boxes can be purchased online or at a craft store and are a beautiful way to honour a special moment.

Choosing a shadow box

Size

First, consider the size of the shadow box. It should be large enough to accommodate your bouquet comfortably. If you have a large bouquet with many flowers, you may need a bigger shadow box. Standard sizes include 8x10, 9x9, 11x14, and 13x16.

Depth

Another important factor is the depth of the shadow box. If you plan to create a 3D arrangement with layers of flowers, choose a shadow box with a deeper depth. Some shadow boxes have depths of 2 inches or more, allowing for more dimensional arrangements.

Material and Colour

Shadow boxes come in various materials and colours to match your style and home decor. You can choose from rustic wooden frames in brown or white, or opt for a more modern look with metal or acrylic frames. Consider if you want a clear lid or a coloured background to showcase your flowers.

Customization Options

Some companies offer customization options to make your shadow box unique. You can add engraving, fabric swatches, or other special details to commemorate your wedding. You may also want to include a wedding invitation or a photo as the background of your arrangement.

Display Method

Think about how you want to display your flowers within the shadow box. Some boxes have removable shelves or drawers, allowing you to create a layered display. Others have a simple background with flowers glued onto it. You can also choose whether to include the stems or just the flower heads.

Price and Availability

Finally, consider your budget and where to purchase your shadow box. Websites like Etsy and Amazon offer a wide range of options at various price points. You can also find shadow boxes at your local craft store.

Remember to choose a shadow box that not only fits your practical needs but also complements the beauty of your wedding bouquet.

Selecting flowers

Flower Type

You can choose between fresh flowers or dried flowers for your shadow box arrangement. Fresh flowers will need to be dried before placing them in the shadow box to preserve their beauty. Common methods for drying flowers include using silica gel or air-drying them in a well-ventilated area. If you opt for air-drying, hang the flowers upside down to ensure proper circulation and to prevent mould from forming.

Flower Colour

Consider the colour of the flowers and how they will complement the background and the overall aesthetic of the shadow box. Keep in mind that the colour of dried flowers may fade over time, adding a vintage or rustic feel to your arrangement.

Flower Size

The size of the flowers will impact the overall composition of your arrangement. Smaller flowers can be used to fill in gaps, while larger flowers can be used as focal points. If you are using a variety of flower types, consider how the different sizes will work together harmoniously.

Flower Meaning

You may want to select flowers that hold a special meaning for you. For example, a particular type of flower may have been used in your bridal bouquet, or it could be a flower that holds symbolic meaning, such as a rose representing love.

Flower Availability

When choosing fresh flowers, consider their availability, especially if you are working within a specific season or colour palette. Some flowers may be harder to source depending on the time of year, so it is important to plan ahead.

Flower Condition

Whether you are using fresh or dried flowers, ensure they are in good condition. Fresh flowers should have their stems cut at a slight angle, and any excess leaves or thorns removed. For dried flowers, check for any signs of damage or discolouration.

Once you have selected your flowers, you can move on to the next steps of creating your wedding bouquet shadow box arrangement, including drying the flowers (if necessary), assembling the shadow box, and arranging the flowers inside.

Drying flowers

Choosing a Drying Method:

Select a suitable drying technique such as air drying, pressing, or using desiccants like silica gel or sand. Each method has its pros and cons. Air drying is simple and cost-effective, but may not retain the vibrant colours of the flowers. Pressing flowers is a delicate process that can flatten the petals, while desiccants like silica gel help maintain the flowers' shape and colour but may require additional tools like an airtight container.

Flower Preparation:

Pick your flowers when they are dry, ideally after the morning dew has evaporated. Remove any unwanted leaves and bundle the stems together if you plan to air dry them. For silica gel drying, cut the stems and leaves, leaving about a centimetre of stem attached to the flower.

Drying Time and Location:

The drying process can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the chosen method. Hang flowers upside down in a cool, dark, well-ventilated area to ensure proper air circulation. Avoid drying flowers in humid or damp environments as they may become limp and develop mould.

Storage and Care:

Once the flowers are completely dry, store them in a dark, cool place until you're ready to assemble your shadow box. Keep them away from direct sunlight to prevent colour fading and handle them with care to avoid breakage.

Shadow Box Assembly:

When your flowers are ready, it's time to arrange them aesthetically within the shadow box. Cut the stems to fit the size of the box if needed. You can use adhesive or fixative spray to secure the flowers in place. Experiment with different arrangements to find the most pleasing composition.

Remember, dried flowers will not have the same plumpness as fresh flowers, so don't be alarmed if they appear slightly shrivelled. The rustic charm of dried flowers, combined with the elegance of the shadow box, will create a timeless display of your cherished wedding bouquet.

Arranging flowers in the shadow box

Selecting and Preparing Flowers:

Start by choosing the flowers you want to preserve. Fresh flowers like sunflowers or roses are a popular choice. If you're using fresh flowers, the first step is to dry them. There are two common methods: using silica gel or air-drying. For silica gel, cut the stems, leaving about a centimetre attached to the flower. Place the flowers in a bowl, stem-side down, and cover them with silica gel. Leave them overnight, then gently shake off the excess gel. Alternatively, you can air-dry the flowers by hanging them upside down in a well-ventilated area for several days.

Choosing a Background:

Select a background that complements your flowers. This could be fabric, decorative paper, scrapbook paper, or even a sentimental item like a ribbon or invitation. Cut the background material to fit the back panel of the shadow box. Adhere it using a glue stick to avoid warping or unevenness.

Arranging the Flowers:

Before gluing, experiment with different flower arrangements to find the most aesthetically pleasing composition. Consider whether you want to fill the entire box or create a specific shape with the flowers. Once you're happy with the arrangement, use a hot glue gun to attach the flowers to the background. Apply small beads of glue in multiple locations to stabilize the flowers and prevent any damage to delicate petals.

Adding Extra Details:

You can enhance your display by adding extra details like a ribbon or twine. Cut and tie a bow, then use the hot glue gun to attach it to the base of the flowers. This adds a whimsical touch and can incorporate meaningful elements like a ribbon from a bouquet or gift.

Assembling the Shadow Box:

Before assembling the shadow box, clean the glass to ensure there are no fingerprints or dust. Then, gently place the back panel with the flower arrangement into the shadow box and secure it in place.

By following these steps, you will create a stunning and sentimental display that preserves your wedding bouquet for years to come.

Displaying the shadow box

Choosing a Location:

• Consider placing your shadow box in a prominent spot in your home, such as on a bedside table, mantel, near the front door, or hung in the living room.
• If you want to display your wedding bouquet alongside other mementos, choose a location that complements the surrounding decor.

Creative Display Ideas:

• You can hang your shadow box on the wall or place it on a tabletop, shelf, or mantle.
• If you want to get creative, consider using a unique display method, such as a standing or hanging frame, or even incorporating it into a larger display with other wedding mementos.
• For a more personalised touch, you can add a light to your shadow box or include it as part of a larger display with soft lighting to highlight your bouquet.

Care and Maintenance:

• To ensure your bouquet stays pristine, keep your shadow box away from direct sunlight and sources of moisture to prevent fading and damage.
• Regularly dust and clean the glass of your shadow box to maintain clarity and keep your flowers looking their best.
• If you plan to move or store your shadow box, handle it with care to avoid disturbing the flower arrangement.

Remember, your wedding bouquet shadow box is a beautiful reminder of your special day, so choose a display option that reflects your style and allows you to cherish those memories for years to come.

Frequently asked questions