In this blog post, I’ll share creative and simple tips on how to preserve wedding flowers that will absolutely help you. Learn simple techniques to keep your special blooms looking beautiful long after the big day.
How to Preserve Wedding Flowers
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Preserving your wedding flowers allows you to cherish the memories of your special day for years to come. Several techniques can transform your beautiful bouquet into a lasting keepsake.
Choosing the Right Preservation Method
Flower preservation methods vary in complexity and results. Air-drying is simple but may alter color and shape. Silica gel drying maintains vibrant hues but requires careful handling. Freeze-drying produces lifelike results but is costlier. Pressing flowers creates flat keepsakes perfect for framing.
Consider your budget, desired outcome, and sentimental value when selecting a method. If you want to preserve the entire bouquet, freeze-drying might be ideal. For a few special blooms, pressing could work well.
Don’t forget about resin preservation. This technique encases flowers in clear epoxy, creating stunning 3D displays. It’s perfect if you want a modern, artistic keepsake.
Preparation Before Preservation
Start preserving your flowers as soon as possible after the wedding. Remove any damaged petals or leaves. Gently clean the flowers with a soft brush to remove dust or debris.
If you’re not preserving immediately, keep your bouquet in water and store it in a cool place. Avoid direct sunlight and heat, which can cause wilting.
For pressing or drying methods, separate individual blooms carefully. If freeze-drying, keep the bouquet intact. Take photos of the original arrangement to help with reassembly later.
Consider which parts of your bouquet you want to keep. You might choose to preserve just a few meaningful flowers rather than the entire arrangement.
The Freeze-Drying Technique
Freeze-drying is a professional preservation method that maintains the flowers’ natural shape and color. The process involves flash-freezing the bouquet and then slowly removing moisture in a vacuum chamber.
This technique preserves the entire bouquet, including intricate details like baby’s breath or ferns. The result looks remarkably similar to fresh flowers, just slightly more delicate.
While expensive, freeze-drying offers unparalleled results. Many companies specialize in this service, often providing display options like glass domes or shadow boxes.
The process typically takes several weeks. Once complete, your preserved flowers will last for years with proper care. Keep them away from direct sunlight and humidity to maintain their beauty.
Pressing Flowers for Lasting Memories
Flower pressing is a classic preservation method you can easily do at home. Choose flowers that press well, like roses, daisies, or smaller blooms.
To press flowers:
- Place them between absorbent paper
- Put heavy books on top
- Leave for 2-3 weeks in a dry place
Change the paper every few days to prevent mold. Once fully dried, your pressed flowers are perfect for creating unique artwork, scrapbooks, or framed displays.
You can also use a flower press for quicker, more uniform results. This method works best for flat flowers and leaves. Consider pressing your entire bouquet in sections to create a complete pressed arrangement.
DIY Floral Preservation Techniques
Preserve your cherished wedding flowers at home with these simple yet effective methods. You can keep your bouquet’s beauty intact for years to come, creating lasting mementos of your special day.
Air-Drying Your Wedding Bouquet
Air-drying is a classic and straightforward technique to preserve your wedding bouquet. Start by removing any damaged petals and leaves. Tie the stems together with string or a rubber band.
Hang the bouquet upside down in a dark, dry area with good air circulation. A closet or spare room works well. Avoid direct sunlight to prevent fading.
Leave your flowers for 2-3 weeks until they’re completely dry. Once done, gently spray with unscented hairspray for extra protection. Display your preserved bouquet in a shadow box or vase.
Silica Gel: The Desiccant Method
Silica gel offers a more advanced DIY flower preservation option. This desiccant quickly absorbs moisture, helping maintain the flowers’ shape and color.
You’ll need:
- Silica gel
- An airtight container
- Your wedding flowers
Cover the bottom of the container with silica gel. Carefully place your flowers on top, then gently pour more silica gel over them until fully covered. Seal the container and wait 3-7 days.
Once dry, remove the flowers and brush off excess silica gel with a soft paintbrush. Your preserved blooms will look almost fresh-picked!
Wax Preservation: Creating a Timeless Piece
Wax preservation creates a stunning, long-lasting floral display. This method requires careful handling but produces beautiful results.
Melt paraffin wax in a double boiler. Trim your flower stems and dip each bloom into the melted wax, holding it by the stem. Quickly remove and let the excess wax drip off.
Dip each flower 2-3 times, allowing it to cool between dips. The wax coating seals in moisture and color, preserving your flowers’ beauty for years.
Display your waxed flowers in a vase or create a unique wall hanging.
Resin Art with Preserved Flowers
Create eye-catching artwork using epoxy resin and your preserved wedding flowers. This method allows you to craft unique decorative pieces.
Press and dry your flowers beforehand using a flower press or heavy books. Mix clear epoxy resin according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Pour a thin layer of resin into a mold. Carefully arrange your dried flowers on top. Pour another layer of resin to fully encapsulate the flowers.
Let the resin cure completely. You’ll have a stunning paperweight, coaster, or decorative panel featuring your preserved wedding blooms.
Final Touches and Displaying Your Preserved Flowers
Preserving your wedding flowers is just the first step. Proper protection and creative display options will ensure your cherished blooms remain a beautiful reminder of your special day for years to come.
Protecting Preserved Flowers from Damage
To keep your preserved wedding bouquet looking its best, store it in an airtight container or shadow box. This shields the delicate petals from dust and humidity.
Avoid placing your flowers in direct sunlight, as UV rays can cause fading. Instead, choose a cool, dry spot away from heat sources.
For resin or freeze-dried bouquets, handle them gently to prevent breakage. If displaying dried flowers, use a light touch when dusting to avoid damaging fragile petals.
Consider using UV-protective glass or acrylic in your display case to further safeguard against color loss. Regular maintenance, like gentle cleaning with a soft brush, will help maintain your bouquet’s beauty.
Creative Ideas for Showcasing Your Blooms
Transform your preserved wedding flowers into stunning home decor. Create a unique wall hanging by arranging pressed flowers in a large frame.
For 3D displays, place your bouquet in a decorative glass cloche or bell jar. This adds elegance while protecting the flowers from dust.
Turn individual blooms into beautiful jewelry or paperweights by embedding them in resin. This creates wearable or functional art from your wedding memories.
Dried flowers can be incorporated into wreaths or garlands for seasonal decor. You can also create a romantic bedroom accent by suspending your bouquet above your bed in a stylish shadow box.
For a modern twist, consider having your bouquet professionally photographed and printed on canvas or metal for a lasting, artistic representation of your flowers.
FAQ
How can I preserve my wedding flowers?
You can press and dry your flowers, use silica gel, or opt for freeze-drying services.
How long will preserved wedding flowers last?
Properly preserved flowers can last for years as a cherished keepsake.
Can I preserve my bouquet myself?
Yes, you can preserve your bouquet at home using various methods like pressing or silica gel.
If you liked this blog post about how to preserve wedding flowers, don’t forget to leave us a comment down below to tell us about your experience with it, or take a look at the following articles:
