Your wedding flowers are more than just decorations; they’re a cherished part of your special day. Many couples want to preserve their wedding bouquet or floral arrangements as a keepsake. If you’re wondering how to go about preserving wedding flowers, this guide will walk you through the best methods to keep your blooms beautiful for years to come.
Why Preserve Your Wedding Flowers?
Preserving your wedding flowers allows you to:
- Keep a sentimental reminder of your wedding day.
- Turn your bouquet into a decorative keepsake.
- Gift pressed flowers or framed arrangements to loved ones.
- Create a timeless memory to cherish forever.
Best Methods for Preserving Wedding Flowers
1. Air Drying
Best for: Brides who want a simple and natural preservation method. How to Do It:
- Gather your bouquet or selected flowers.
- Remove excess leaves and tie the stems with a rubber band.
- Hang them upside down in a dry, dark, and well-ventilated area for 2-3 weeks.
- Once dried, display them in a vase or shadow box.
2. Pressing Flowers
Best for: Creating framed art or keepsake cards. How to Do It:
- Lay flowers between parchment paper and place them inside a heavy book.
- Add extra weight (such as more books) on top and leave for 2-3 weeks.
- Once fully dried, use them for DIY projects, framed art, or scrapbooking.
3. Silica Gel Drying
Best for: Keeping flowers’ shape and color intact. How to Do It:
- Fill a container with silica gel.
- Bury flowers carefully in the gel, ensuring they’re fully covered.
- Seal the container and leave it for 5-7 days.
- Gently remove flowers and use them for framing or resin preservation.
4. Resin Preservation
Best for: Turning flowers into jewelry, coasters, or decorative pieces. How to Do It:
- Place dried flowers in a silicone mold.
- Pour clear resin over them and let it harden for 24-48 hours.
- Sand and polish the resin for a smooth finish.
- Use it as home décor or a unique keepsake.
5. Freeze Drying (Professional Method)
Best for: Keeping flowers looking fresh and lifelike. How to Do It:
- This method requires a professional service with specialized equipment.
- Freeze-dried flowers maintain their color and shape for years.
- They can be displayed in glass domes, shadow boxes, or wedding albums.
Tips for Choosing the Right Preservation Method
- Consider Your Budget: Air drying and pressing are budget-friendly, while resin and freeze-drying require professional help.
- Think About Display Options: Shadow boxes, framed arrangements, and jewelry are popular choices.
- Start the Process Early: Flowers should be preserved as soon as possible to retain their freshness.
- Store Properly: Keep preserved flowers away from direct sunlight and humidity to prevent fading.
Final Thoughts
Preserving your wedding flowers allows you to relive your big day every time you look at them. Whether you choose air drying, pressing, or professional preservation, you’ll have a timeless keepsake to cherish for years to come.