George Boyle
Wedding flowers are often preserved as a way to capture the emotions and memories of a couple's special day. There are various methods to preserve flowers, including pressing, drying, and encasing them in resin. Some couples opt for DIY methods, while others seek professional services to ensure the best possible outcome. Preserving flowers can be challenging, especially when it comes to maintaining their colour and shape. Shipping flowers can also be risky, as they are delicate and require careful handling. Ultimately, the choice of preservation method depends on personal preference and the desired outcome.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cost | $75-$450 for shipping, $320-$450 for preservation |
| Time | It can take weeks to months to completely dry out |
| Methods | Pressing, framing, encasing in resin, hanging, drying in a microwave, preserving in resin |
| Flowers | Full-shaped flowers like roses are better for hanging, flat flowers like pansies are better for pressing |
| Logistics | Use a local company to reduce logistics concerns |
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What You'll Learn
Local vs. non-local preservation services
When it comes to preserving wedding flowers, you may consider using a local or non-local preservation service. Both options have their advantages and disadvantages, and the best choice for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
Using a local preservation service can offer several benefits. Firstly, you can save on shipping costs and avoid the risk of your flowers being damaged during transit. This is especially important for delicate flowers that may be more prone to damage. Additionally, local preservation services may offer more personalized communication and easier logistics, as you can simply drop off your bouquet at their shop or studio. This convenience can be especially valuable in the busy days following a wedding. Some local vendors may even offer pick-up services, ensuring your flowers are collected promptly and kept fresh.
On the other hand, non-local preservation services can provide a wider range of options if there are limited or no local vendors offering the service in your area. They often provide detailed shipping instructions and guidelines to ensure your flowers arrive safely at their studio. While shipping costs can be significant, some non-local vendors offer expedited shipping options to reduce the time your flowers are in transit. Non-local services may also have online galleries or social media pages showcasing their work, allowing you to view their preservation styles and techniques before making a decision.
Another advantage of non-local preservation services is their ability to work with pre-dried bouquets. If you discover a preservation service after your wedding and have already dried your bouquet, they can typically accommodate your request. Some services even offer colour-enhancing techniques to restore the original vibrancy of your flowers. This can be particularly useful if you want to preserve your bouquet but didn't initially realise the option was available.
Ultimately, the decision to choose a local or non-local preservation service depends on your unique circumstances and preferences. Consider factors such as cost, convenience, the range of services offered, and the condition of your bouquet when making your decision. Whether you opt for a local or non-local service, preserving your wedding flowers is a beautiful way to cherish the memories and emotions of your special day for years to come.
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$30.99 $32.99
Pressing flowers
Timing is Critical
For optimal results, it's best to press flowers soon after the wedding. One source mentions that they pressed their flowers 1.5 months after the wedding. Another source recommends acting even sooner, suggesting that flowers be packaged and shipped for pressing the day after the wedding.
Professional Services
There are professional services, such as Pressed Florals, Pressed Bouquet Shop by Element, and dbandrea, that specialize in pressing and preserving wedding flowers. These services offer various options, including framing, resin keepsakes, and wearable jewellery. Costs for these services vary, ranging from \$75 to \$450, with additional shipping costs for some.
DIY Options
It is also possible to press wedding flowers at home using a flower pressing kit. These kits typically include layers of paper and a Velcro strap to press the flowers. Some people choose to disassemble the flowers to make them less bulky for pressing, removing some petals and trimming bulky parts. One source mentions using wax paper between books as an alternative to a pressing kit.
Colour Considerations
It's important to note that flower colours may change during the pressing process. White flowers tend to press to a golden hue, light pinks often fade to coral or yellow, and red flowers usually become more magenta. Additionally, keeping pressed flowers away from direct sunlight can help prolong their colour.
Framing and Display
Pressed flowers can be framed and displayed as artwork. Some professional services offer custom framing options, allowing customers to choose the frame size, colour, glass type, and design preferences. It's also possible to create DIY arrangements using pressed flowers and glue, although some artistic skill may be required to arrange the flowers attractively.
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Drying flowers
The most effective method for air-drying flowers is to hang the bouquet upside down in a dry, dark spot, such as a cool cupboard or a garage. First, separate the stems and strip any unwanted foliage, leaving some top foliage for a natural appearance. Then, hang the bouquet in small bunches to ensure it dries properly.
Another method is dry evaporation, which allows you to display the flowers while they dry. After stripping the flowers of any unwanted foliage, put them in a vase with approximately two inches of water, ensuring the ends of the stalks sit in the water. This method works well with hydrangeas, gypsophila, and spray roses.
For the best results, consider using a professional flower preservation service, which can be more costly but offers amazing results. One such method is freeze-drying, where a courier collects the flowers the day after the wedding and preserves them using a freeze-drying machine. Flowers can also be pressed and framed, either professionally or at home, to create a unique keepsake.
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Preserving flowers in resin
There are several methods to dry flowers, including:
- Leaving them to dry naturally in a vase or box.
- Placing the flowers between parchment paper and the pages of a heavy book.
- Using a microwave press, where flowers are placed between two ceramic tiles held together with rubber bands. This method helps preserve the colour.
Once the flowers are dry, you can begin the process of preserving them in resin. This involves the following steps:
- Using a mixing stick, slowly combine the resin and hardener in two separate cups until the mixture is clear and ready to pour.
- Pour the resin mixture into a silicone mould, ensuring the mould is on a level surface.
- Arrange the flowers in the mould to your liking using tweezers or a mixing stick.
- Pour in more resin to fill the mould, creating two layers.
- Allow the resin to cure for at least 48 hours.
- Gently de-mould the piece, being careful of sharp edges.
- Finish by sanding down the edges if needed.
Resin artists can also be commissioned to preserve wedding flowers in resin. These artists can create functional pieces such as ring holders, coasters, and trinket trays. This option may be preferable to ensure a high-quality result, although it can be costly and take several weeks to complete.
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Transporting fresh flowers
Store Flowers in a Cool Place
The ideal temperature for storing flowers is between 34 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit (1 to 24 degrees Celsius). You can keep flowers fresh longer by storing them in a refrigerator before an event, but ensure the temperature is cool, not freezing. Additionally, remove any fruits or vegetables from the refrigerator, as they emit ethylene gas, which can harm flowers.
Recut the Flowers
Extending the life of flowers during transport can be achieved by cutting one to two inches off the stems. This simple step helps keep them fresh. It is recommended to recut the flowers every 24 to 48 hours.
Trim the Lower Leaves
Trimming off the lower leaves from the stems is essential. This step prevents the leaves from staying damp, which could lead to rot and the growth of mould or bacteria.
Wrap the Stems
Use rubber bands to wrap the stems of the flowers. This practice keeps the flowers bundled and secure, maintaining the arrangement during transport.
Moisture Retention Techniques
To keep flowers moist, wrap their stems in cotton wool soaked in room temperature water. Then, place the flowers flat in a box to prevent rolling during transport. Alternatively, you can transport flowers in buckets, filling them halfway with water and placing the flowers upright. Secure the buckets by placing heavy items on each side to prevent tipping.
Vehicle Considerations
Keep the vehicle cool and well-ventilated to maintain flower freshness. Avoid placing flowers in direct sunlight or an unventilated trunk. Instead, place them on the floor of the vehicle to keep them upright and fresh.
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Frequently asked questions
Wrap the stems in a damp paper towel, place the bottom in a plastic bag, and then put the bouquet under your seat.
You can press the flowers and frame them, dry them in a microwave, hang-dry them, or preserve them in resin.
It can take weeks to months for flowers to completely dry out.
The cost varies depending on the method and vendor, but it can range from USD 220 to USD 450.
Yes, you can order a flower arrangement inspired by your bouquet or preserve a few flowers from that. You can also create resin keepsakes or Christmas ornaments using your wedding flowers.
