Signature Grand Weddings

While the special memories of your wedding day will last a lifetime, your carefully chosen bridal bouquet will soon be a distant memory unless you take action to preserve it.Whether you choose a professional service or one of the do-it-yourself preservation techniques below, you’ll be able to savor the beauty of your bouquet and keep it as a meaningful keepsake for decades to come.

When choosing which method to use, consider how you would like to display your flowers after they are dried. Will you be showcasing the entire bouquet in a shadow box or vase, displaying a single blossom, or incorporating it into a wall décor piece? Also, before you tackle your bridal bouquet, it’s a good idea to practice each method with the flower types you’ll be using in your bouquet, so you’ll have an idea of what to expect.

Below are some of the most common do-it-yourself flower preservation methods:

Air Drying. To air dry, simply hang the flowers upside down and let them dry naturally. Flowers retain whatever moisture is present in the environment, so be sure to choose the most arid room in your home. Avoid dank basements and steamy bathrooms and kitchens that could promote rotting and mold growth. Remember, not all flowers dry equally. Delicate flower species, such as lilies and orchids, will shred if air dried, while roses will retain most of their original shape. Ask your florist for advice in selecting the best flowers to air dry in your climate.

Flower Pressing. While you can purchase a traditional flower press from any craft store, the only equipment you really need is pressure, absorbent paper, and warmth. To press, simply lay the flower between sheets of extra-thick paper towels and place a flat, heavy object on top. To retain good color and form, maintain consistent heat throughout the drying process. Flowers that are already flat, such as pansies, daisies, violets, and buttercups, are best for pressing.

Silica Drying. Silica acts as a drying agent, pulling moisture from the blossom. To dry flowers using this technique, you’ll need enough silica sand to completely bury each flower. Silica drying works well for some flower varieties, but isn’t suited for all sizes and shapes. Be sure to read all warning labels and follow directions carefully.

With a little experimentation, patience, and creativity, you’ll soon discover the perfect drying method for your bridal bouquet. Here’s to your preserved flowers smelling as sweet as the memories they conjure.