Bouquet Preservation
So, you’ve just got married and don’t know what to do with your bouquet? Don’t worry, you’re not alone! Your wedding bouquet is more than just a beautiful accessory; it’s a cherished keepsake from one of the most important days of your life. My wedding was interstate, so unfortunately I think my bouquet ended up left behind somewhere. Your bouquet doesn’t have to be left behind, here are some fun and creative ways to preserve your bouquet, ensuring those memories last a lifetime.
1. Drying Your Bouquet
Method 1: Air Drying
Air drying is a super easy and classic way to keep your flowers looking gorgeous for years. Here’s how you do it:
Prep those petals: First things first, remove any wilting petals and leaves.
Bundle up: Tie the stems together with a rubber band or some string.
Hang time: Hang your bouquet upside down in a cool, dry, and dark place—think closet or cupboard.
Wait it out: Patience is key! Let it hang out for about 2-4 weeks until it’s completely dry.
This method is perfect if you’re going for a rustic, vintage vibe. Plus, it’s super easy!
Method 2: Silica Gel Drying
Want to keep those vibrant colors popping? Silica gel to the rescue!
Gather your supplies: You’ll need silica gel crystals and an airtight container.
Layer up: Place a layer of silica gel at the bottom of the container.
Nestle your flowers: Pop your flowers into the silica gel, making sure they’re fully covered.
Seal and wait: Close the container and let it sit for about a week.
Ta-da!: Your flowers will come out looking fresh and fabulous.
Silica gel drying is awesome for keeping those bright colors and delicate details intact.
2. Pressing Your Flowers
Method 1: Book Pressing
Pressing flowers in a book is a timeless and easy technique. Plus, you probably have everything you need at home!
Get your book: Grab a heavy book and line it with parchment paper.
Arrange your blooms: Place the flowers between the pages, spreading them out so they don’t overlap.
Add some weight: Close the book and stack a few more books on top for good measure.
Be patient: Leave it for about 2-4 weeks, checking in occasionally to see how they’re doing.
This is perfect for making bookmarks, framed art, or just keeping a piece of your day close.
Method 2: Flower Press
If you’re serious about flower pressing, consider getting a flower press kit.
Get pressing: Place your flowers between the press’s layers of paper and cardboard.
Tighten up: Screw down the press to apply pressure.
Wait it out: Leave it for 2-4 weeks, tightening occasionally.
This method gives you beautifully pressed flowers that you can use in all sorts of crafty projects.
3. Preservation in Resin
Want something a bit more modern and durable? Try preserving your flowers in resin!
Gather your supplies: You’ll need epoxy resin, a mold, and some gloves.
Mix it up: Mix the resin according to the instructions on the package.
Pour a base layer: Pour a layer of resin into the mold.
Add your flowers: Arrange your flowers on the resin layer.
Seal the deal: Pour another layer of resin over the flowers.
Let it cure: Follow the resin’s instructions—usually, it takes 24-48 hours to cure.
This gives you a beautiful, durable keepsake that can be a paperweight, ornament, or even jewellery!
4. Creating Floral Artwork
Turn your flowers into a stunning piece of art!
Get your frame: Use a shadow box frame.
Arrange your flowers: Arrange your dried or pressed flowers on the backing of the shadow box.
Glue it down: Use glue to secure the flowers in place.
Frame it: Assemble the shadow box.
Display: Hang it on your wall or place it on a shelf for a unique piece of art.
Preserving your wedding bouquet is a beautiful way to keep the memories of your special day alive. Whether you dry, press, encase in resin, or create floral artwork, these methods ensure your bouquet remains a cherished keepsake. Or alternatively you can leave it to the professionals and get something beautiful created that you will forever cherish.
If you have had a Cottage & Co bouquet preserved, we’d love to see! Tag us on instagram @cottage.and.co