How To Preserve Flowers
Tips for preserving flowers
- Decide on your preservation method as quickly as possible after the ceremony, particularly if you have a honeymoon planned
- Use hairspray or artist’s fixative spray on air-dried flowers for additional protection
- Cut stems to an appropriate length for the method you have chosen
- Remove any faded or damaged foliage before preserving — the most vivid flowers, such as orange or yellow varieties, will give the best result
- Keep some of the wedding confetti and include it in framed arrangements for a more complete memento of the day
- Flowers with a high water content, such as lilies, are not well suited to drying
Read more about how to preserve flowers on the Flower Council of Holland website.
Pressed flowers can be selected and displayed in a photo frame. Any style of frame works — the flowers themselves are the point. This is one of the more straightforward ways to display preserved blooms without any additional cost beyond the frame.
Tips for preserving flowers
- Decide on your preservation method as quickly as possible after the ceremony, particularly if you have a honeymoon planned
- Use hairspray or artist’s fixative spray on air-dried flowers for additional protection
- Cut stems to an appropriate length for the method you have chosen
- Remove any faded or damaged foliage before preserving — the most vivid flowers, such as orange or yellow varieties, will give the best result
- Keep some of the wedding confetti and include it in framed arrangements for a more complete memento of the day
- Flowers with a high water content, such as lilies, are not well suited to drying
Read more about how to preserve flowers on the Flower Council of Holland website.
Framing
Pressed flowers can be selected and displayed in a photo frame. Any style of frame works — the flowers themselves are the point. This is one of the more straightforward ways to display preserved blooms without any additional cost beyond the frame.
Tips for preserving flowers
- Decide on your preservation method as quickly as possible after the ceremony, particularly if you have a honeymoon planned
- Use hairspray or artist’s fixative spray on air-dried flowers for additional protection
- Cut stems to an appropriate length for the method you have chosen
- Remove any faded or damaged foliage before preserving — the most vivid flowers, such as orange or yellow varieties, will give the best result
- Keep some of the wedding confetti and include it in framed arrangements for a more complete memento of the day
- Flowers with a high water content, such as lilies, are not well suited to drying
Read more about how to preserve flowers on the Flower Council of Holland website.
Freeze-dried flowers can be set in glass as a paperweight — for yourself or as a gift for family members. The window for sending flowers to a preserver is up to ten days after the wedding, though the sooner they are sent, the better the result.
Framing
Pressed flowers can be selected and displayed in a photo frame. Any style of frame works — the flowers themselves are the point. This is one of the more straightforward ways to display preserved blooms without any additional cost beyond the frame.
Tips for preserving flowers
- Decide on your preservation method as quickly as possible after the ceremony, particularly if you have a honeymoon planned
- Use hairspray or artist’s fixative spray on air-dried flowers for additional protection
- Cut stems to an appropriate length for the method you have chosen
- Remove any faded or damaged foliage before preserving — the most vivid flowers, such as orange or yellow varieties, will give the best result
- Keep some of the wedding confetti and include it in framed arrangements for a more complete memento of the day
- Flowers with a high water content, such as lilies, are not well suited to drying
Read more about how to preserve flowers on the Flower Council of Holland website.
Paperweights
Freeze-dried flowers can be set in glass as a paperweight — for yourself or as a gift for family members. The window for sending flowers to a preserver is up to ten days after the wedding, though the sooner they are sent, the better the result.
Framing
Pressed flowers can be selected and displayed in a photo frame. Any style of frame works — the flowers themselves are the point. This is one of the more straightforward ways to display preserved blooms without any additional cost beyond the frame.
Tips for preserving flowers
- Decide on your preservation method as quickly as possible after the ceremony, particularly if you have a honeymoon planned
- Use hairspray or artist’s fixative spray on air-dried flowers for additional protection
- Cut stems to an appropriate length for the method you have chosen
- Remove any faded or damaged foliage before preserving — the most vivid flowers, such as orange or yellow varieties, will give the best result
- Keep some of the wedding confetti and include it in framed arrangements for a more complete memento of the day
- Flowers with a high water content, such as lilies, are not well suited to drying
Read more about how to preserve flowers on the Flower Council of Holland website.
What to do with your preserved wedding flowers
Paperweights
Freeze-dried flowers can be set in glass as a paperweight — for yourself or as a gift for family members. The window for sending flowers to a preserver is up to ten days after the wedding, though the sooner they are sent, the better the result.
Framing
Pressed flowers can be selected and displayed in a photo frame. Any style of frame works — the flowers themselves are the point. This is one of the more straightforward ways to display preserved blooms without any additional cost beyond the frame.
Tips for preserving flowers
- Decide on your preservation method as quickly as possible after the ceremony, particularly if you have a honeymoon planned
- Use hairspray or artist’s fixative spray on air-dried flowers for additional protection
- Cut stems to an appropriate length for the method you have chosen
- Remove any faded or damaged foliage before preserving — the most vivid flowers, such as orange or yellow varieties, will give the best result
- Keep some of the wedding confetti and include it in framed arrangements for a more complete memento of the day
- Flowers with a high water content, such as lilies, are not well suited to drying
Read more about how to preserve flowers on the Flower Council of Holland website.
What to do with your preserved wedding flowers
Paperweights
Freeze-dried flowers can be set in glass as a paperweight — for yourself or as a gift for family members. The window for sending flowers to a preserver is up to ten days after the wedding, though the sooner they are sent, the better the result.
Framing
Pressed flowers can be selected and displayed in a photo frame. Any style of frame works — the flowers themselves are the point. This is one of the more straightforward ways to display preserved blooms without any additional cost beyond the frame.
Tips for preserving flowers
- Decide on your preservation method as quickly as possible after the ceremony, particularly if you have a honeymoon planned
- Use hairspray or artist’s fixative spray on air-dried flowers for additional protection
- Cut stems to an appropriate length for the method you have chosen
- Remove any faded or damaged foliage before preserving — the most vivid flowers, such as orange or yellow varieties, will give the best result
- Keep some of the wedding confetti and include it in framed arrangements for a more complete memento of the day
- Flowers with a high water content, such as lilies, are not well suited to drying
Read more about how to preserve flowers on the Flower Council of Holland website.
Professional freeze-drying removes moisture from the petals using specialist equipment, preserving the original colour, shape and even the scent of the flowers. It is the most durable of the available methods and the most suitable for couples heading straight to their honeymoon, as the flowers can be handed to a professional before departure. Handle freeze-dried flowers carefully once returned, as they can be fragile.
What to do with your preserved wedding flowers
Paperweights
Freeze-dried flowers can be set in glass as a paperweight — for yourself or as a gift for family members. The window for sending flowers to a preserver is up to ten days after the wedding, though the sooner they are sent, the better the result.
Framing
Pressed flowers can be selected and displayed in a photo frame. Any style of frame works — the flowers themselves are the point. This is one of the more straightforward ways to display preserved blooms without any additional cost beyond the frame.
Tips for preserving flowers
- Decide on your preservation method as quickly as possible after the ceremony, particularly if you have a honeymoon planned
- Use hairspray or artist’s fixative spray on air-dried flowers for additional protection
- Cut stems to an appropriate length for the method you have chosen
- Remove any faded or damaged foliage before preserving — the most vivid flowers, such as orange or yellow varieties, will give the best result
- Keep some of the wedding confetti and include it in framed arrangements for a more complete memento of the day
- Flowers with a high water content, such as lilies, are not well suited to drying
Read more about how to preserve flowers on the Flower Council of Holland website.
Take your flowers to be freeze-dried
Professional freeze-drying removes moisture from the petals using specialist equipment, preserving the original colour, shape and even the scent of the flowers. It is the most durable of the available methods and the most suitable for couples heading straight to their honeymoon, as the flowers can be handed to a professional before departure. Handle freeze-dried flowers carefully once returned, as they can be fragile.
What to do with your preserved wedding flowers
Paperweights
Freeze-dried flowers can be set in glass as a paperweight — for yourself or as a gift for family members. The window for sending flowers to a preserver is up to ten days after the wedding, though the sooner they are sent, the better the result.
Framing
Pressed flowers can be selected and displayed in a photo frame. Any style of frame works — the flowers themselves are the point. This is one of the more straightforward ways to display preserved blooms without any additional cost beyond the frame.
Tips for preserving flowers
- Decide on your preservation method as quickly as possible after the ceremony, particularly if you have a honeymoon planned
- Use hairspray or artist’s fixative spray on air-dried flowers for additional protection
- Cut stems to an appropriate length for the method you have chosen
- Remove any faded or damaged foliage before preserving — the most vivid flowers, such as orange or yellow varieties, will give the best result
- Keep some of the wedding confetti and include it in framed arrangements for a more complete memento of the day
- Flowers with a high water content, such as lilies, are not well suited to drying
Read more about how to preserve flowers on the Flower Council of Holland website.
Silica gel — available from craft stores — is effective at retaining the shape and colour of preserved flowers. Fill an airtight container with the gel, place the flowers on top, and cover with more gel until fully submerged. Seal and store in a dark, dry place. The process takes only a few days, which makes it a practical option for those leaving on honeymoon shortly after the wedding. Note that silica gel sachets carry a risk of toxicity, so use rubber gloves throughout.
Preserving in wax is a shorter-term solution — it extends the life of the flowers by around six months rather than preserving them indefinitely. Melt paraffin wax, or soy wax for a plant-based alternative, in a heatproof container set over hot water. Dip the flower heads briefly, then hang them upside down to allow the wax to set.
Preserving in wax is a shorter-term solution — it extends the life of the flowers by around six months rather than preserving them indefinitely. Melt paraffin wax, or soy wax for a plant-based alternative, in a heatproof container set over hot water. Dip the flower heads briefly, then hang them upside down to allow the wax to set.
Take your flowers to be freeze-dried
Professional freeze-drying removes moisture from the petals using specialist equipment, preserving the original colour, shape and even the scent of the flowers. It is the most durable of the available methods and the most suitable for couples heading straight to their honeymoon, as the flowers can be handed to a professional before departure. Handle freeze-dried flowers carefully once returned, as they can be fragile.
What to do with your preserved wedding flowers
Paperweights
Freeze-dried flowers can be set in glass as a paperweight — for yourself or as a gift for family members. The window for sending flowers to a preserver is up to ten days after the wedding, though the sooner they are sent, the better the result.
Framing
Pressed flowers can be selected and displayed in a photo frame. Any style of frame works — the flowers themselves are the point. This is one of the more straightforward ways to display preserved blooms without any additional cost beyond the frame.
Tips for preserving flowers
- Decide on your preservation method as quickly as possible after the ceremony, particularly if you have a honeymoon planned
- Use hairspray or artist’s fixative spray on air-dried flowers for additional protection
- Cut stems to an appropriate length for the method you have chosen
- Remove any faded or damaged foliage before preserving — the most vivid flowers, such as orange or yellow varieties, will give the best result
- Keep some of the wedding confetti and include it in framed arrangements for a more complete memento of the day
- Flowers with a high water content, such as lilies, are not well suited to drying
Read more about how to preserve flowers on the Flower Council of Holland website.
Cover in silica gel or wax
Silica gel — available from craft stores — is effective at retaining the shape and colour of preserved flowers. Fill an airtight container with the gel, place the flowers on top, and cover with more gel until fully submerged. Seal and store in a dark, dry place. The process takes only a few days, which makes it a practical option for those leaving on honeymoon shortly after the wedding. Note that silica gel sachets carry a risk of toxicity, so use rubber gloves throughout.
Preserving in wax is a shorter-term solution — it extends the life of the flowers by around six months rather than preserving them indefinitely. Melt paraffin wax, or soy wax for a plant-based alternative, in a heatproof container set over hot water. Dip the flower heads briefly, then hang them upside down to allow the wax to set.
Preserving in wax is a shorter-term solution — it extends the life of the flowers by around six months rather than preserving them indefinitely. Melt paraffin wax, or soy wax for a plant-based alternative, in a heatproof container set over hot water. Dip the flower heads briefly, then hang them upside down to allow the wax to set.
Take your flowers to be freeze-dried
Professional freeze-drying removes moisture from the petals using specialist equipment, preserving the original colour, shape and even the scent of the flowers. It is the most durable of the available methods and the most suitable for couples heading straight to their honeymoon, as the flowers can be handed to a professional before departure. Handle freeze-dried flowers carefully once returned, as they can be fragile.
What to do with your preserved wedding flowers
Paperweights
Freeze-dried flowers can be set in glass as a paperweight — for yourself or as a gift for family members. The window for sending flowers to a preserver is up to ten days after the wedding, though the sooner they are sent, the better the result.
Framing
Pressed flowers can be selected and displayed in a photo frame. Any style of frame works — the flowers themselves are the point. This is one of the more straightforward ways to display preserved blooms without any additional cost beyond the frame.
Tips for preserving flowers
- Decide on your preservation method as quickly as possible after the ceremony, particularly if you have a honeymoon planned
- Use hairspray or artist’s fixative spray on air-dried flowers for additional protection
- Cut stems to an appropriate length for the method you have chosen
- Remove any faded or damaged foliage before preserving — the most vivid flowers, such as orange or yellow varieties, will give the best result
- Keep some of the wedding confetti and include it in framed arrangements for a more complete memento of the day
- Flowers with a high water content, such as lilies, are not well suited to drying
Read more about how to preserve flowers on the Flower Council of Holland website.
Air-drying works particularly well for larger flowers such as sunflowers or peonies. Tie the stems together with wire or string and hang them upside down in a cool, dark place such as a wardrobe or cupboard. Direct sunlight will cause the colours to fade, so keep them away from windows and check on them at intervals. Once dry, a light coat of hairspray adds protection and helps prevent crumbling.
Cover in silica gel or wax
Silica gel — available from craft stores — is effective at retaining the shape and colour of preserved flowers. Fill an airtight container with the gel, place the flowers on top, and cover with more gel until fully submerged. Seal and store in a dark, dry place. The process takes only a few days, which makes it a practical option for those leaving on honeymoon shortly after the wedding. Note that silica gel sachets carry a risk of toxicity, so use rubber gloves throughout.
Preserving in wax is a shorter-term solution — it extends the life of the flowers by around six months rather than preserving them indefinitely. Melt paraffin wax, or soy wax for a plant-based alternative, in a heatproof container set over hot water. Dip the flower heads briefly, then hang them upside down to allow the wax to set.
Preserving in wax is a shorter-term solution — it extends the life of the flowers by around six months rather than preserving them indefinitely. Melt paraffin wax, or soy wax for a plant-based alternative, in a heatproof container set over hot water. Dip the flower heads briefly, then hang them upside down to allow the wax to set.
Take your flowers to be freeze-dried
Professional freeze-drying removes moisture from the petals using specialist equipment, preserving the original colour, shape and even the scent of the flowers. It is the most durable of the available methods and the most suitable for couples heading straight to their honeymoon, as the flowers can be handed to a professional before departure. Handle freeze-dried flowers carefully once returned, as they can be fragile.
What to do with your preserved wedding flowers
Paperweights
Freeze-dried flowers can be set in glass as a paperweight — for yourself or as a gift for family members. The window for sending flowers to a preserver is up to ten days after the wedding, though the sooner they are sent, the better the result.
Framing
Pressed flowers can be selected and displayed in a photo frame. Any style of frame works — the flowers themselves are the point. This is one of the more straightforward ways to display preserved blooms without any additional cost beyond the frame.
Tips for preserving flowers
- Decide on your preservation method as quickly as possible after the ceremony, particularly if you have a honeymoon planned
- Use hairspray or artist’s fixative spray on air-dried flowers for additional protection
- Cut stems to an appropriate length for the method you have chosen
- Remove any faded or damaged foliage before preserving — the most vivid flowers, such as orange or yellow varieties, will give the best result
- Keep some of the wedding confetti and include it in framed arrangements for a more complete memento of the day
- Flowers with a high water content, such as lilies, are not well suited to drying
Read more about how to preserve flowers on the Flower Council of Holland website.
Hang them to dry
Air-drying works particularly well for larger flowers such as sunflowers or peonies. Tie the stems together with wire or string and hang them upside down in a cool, dark place such as a wardrobe or cupboard. Direct sunlight will cause the colours to fade, so keep them away from windows and check on them at intervals. Once dry, a light coat of hairspray adds protection and helps prevent crumbling.
Cover in silica gel or wax
Silica gel — available from craft stores — is effective at retaining the shape and colour of preserved flowers. Fill an airtight container with the gel, place the flowers on top, and cover with more gel until fully submerged. Seal and store in a dark, dry place. The process takes only a few days, which makes it a practical option for those leaving on honeymoon shortly after the wedding. Note that silica gel sachets carry a risk of toxicity, so use rubber gloves throughout.
Preserving in wax is a shorter-term solution — it extends the life of the flowers by around six months rather than preserving them indefinitely. Melt paraffin wax, or soy wax for a plant-based alternative, in a heatproof container set over hot water. Dip the flower heads briefly, then hang them upside down to allow the wax to set.
Preserving in wax is a shorter-term solution — it extends the life of the flowers by around six months rather than preserving them indefinitely. Melt paraffin wax, or soy wax for a plant-based alternative, in a heatproof container set over hot water. Dip the flower heads briefly, then hang them upside down to allow the wax to set.
Take your flowers to be freeze-dried
Professional freeze-drying removes moisture from the petals using specialist equipment, preserving the original colour, shape and even the scent of the flowers. It is the most durable of the available methods and the most suitable for couples heading straight to their honeymoon, as the flowers can be handed to a professional before departure. Handle freeze-dried flowers carefully once returned, as they can be fragile.
What to do with your preserved wedding flowers
Paperweights
Freeze-dried flowers can be set in glass as a paperweight — for yourself or as a gift for family members. The window for sending flowers to a preserver is up to ten days after the wedding, though the sooner they are sent, the better the result.
Framing
Pressed flowers can be selected and displayed in a photo frame. Any style of frame works — the flowers themselves are the point. This is one of the more straightforward ways to display preserved blooms without any additional cost beyond the frame.
Tips for preserving flowers
- Decide on your preservation method as quickly as possible after the ceremony, particularly if you have a honeymoon planned
- Use hairspray or artist’s fixative spray on air-dried flowers for additional protection
- Cut stems to an appropriate length for the method you have chosen
- Remove any faded or damaged foliage before preserving — the most vivid flowers, such as orange or yellow varieties, will give the best result
- Keep some of the wedding confetti and include it in framed arrangements for a more complete memento of the day
- Flowers with a high water content, such as lilies, are not well suited to drying
Read more about how to preserve flowers on the Flower Council of Holland website.
Pressing is an inexpensive and straightforward method that requires only a heavy book or two. Line the book with parchment or newspaper, place the flowers on top, and add another layer of paper before closing the book to prevent ink from transferring onto the petals. Weigh the book down with additional weight and store in a warm, dry place. Most flowers dry within a week, though larger or denser varieties may take longer.
Hang them to dry
Air-drying works particularly well for larger flowers such as sunflowers or peonies. Tie the stems together with wire or string and hang them upside down in a cool, dark place such as a wardrobe or cupboard. Direct sunlight will cause the colours to fade, so keep them away from windows and check on them at intervals. Once dry, a light coat of hairspray adds protection and helps prevent crumbling.
Cover in silica gel or wax
Silica gel — available from craft stores — is effective at retaining the shape and colour of preserved flowers. Fill an airtight container with the gel, place the flowers on top, and cover with more gel until fully submerged. Seal and store in a dark, dry place. The process takes only a few days, which makes it a practical option for those leaving on honeymoon shortly after the wedding. Note that silica gel sachets carry a risk of toxicity, so use rubber gloves throughout.
Preserving in wax is a shorter-term solution — it extends the life of the flowers by around six months rather than preserving them indefinitely. Melt paraffin wax, or soy wax for a plant-based alternative, in a heatproof container set over hot water. Dip the flower heads briefly, then hang them upside down to allow the wax to set.
Preserving in wax is a shorter-term solution — it extends the life of the flowers by around six months rather than preserving them indefinitely. Melt paraffin wax, or soy wax for a plant-based alternative, in a heatproof container set over hot water. Dip the flower heads briefly, then hang them upside down to allow the wax to set.
Take your flowers to be freeze-dried
Professional freeze-drying removes moisture from the petals using specialist equipment, preserving the original colour, shape and even the scent of the flowers. It is the most durable of the available methods and the most suitable for couples heading straight to their honeymoon, as the flowers can be handed to a professional before departure. Handle freeze-dried flowers carefully once returned, as they can be fragile.
What to do with your preserved wedding flowers
Paperweights
Freeze-dried flowers can be set in glass as a paperweight — for yourself or as a gift for family members. The window for sending flowers to a preserver is up to ten days after the wedding, though the sooner they are sent, the better the result.
Framing
Pressed flowers can be selected and displayed in a photo frame. Any style of frame works — the flowers themselves are the point. This is one of the more straightforward ways to display preserved blooms without any additional cost beyond the frame.
Tips for preserving flowers
- Decide on your preservation method as quickly as possible after the ceremony, particularly if you have a honeymoon planned
- Use hairspray or artist’s fixative spray on air-dried flowers for additional protection
- Cut stems to an appropriate length for the method you have chosen
- Remove any faded or damaged foliage before preserving — the most vivid flowers, such as orange or yellow varieties, will give the best result
- Keep some of the wedding confetti and include it in framed arrangements for a more complete memento of the day
- Flowers with a high water content, such as lilies, are not well suited to drying
Read more about how to preserve flowers on the Flower Council of Holland website.
Press your flowers
Pressing is an inexpensive and straightforward method that requires only a heavy book or two. Line the book with parchment or newspaper, place the flowers on top, and add another layer of paper before closing the book to prevent ink from transferring onto the petals. Weigh the book down with additional weight and store in a warm, dry place. Most flowers dry within a week, though larger or denser varieties may take longer.
Hang them to dry
Air-drying works particularly well for larger flowers such as sunflowers or peonies. Tie the stems together with wire or string and hang them upside down in a cool, dark place such as a wardrobe or cupboard. Direct sunlight will cause the colours to fade, so keep them away from windows and check on them at intervals. Once dry, a light coat of hairspray adds protection and helps prevent crumbling.
Cover in silica gel or wax
Silica gel — available from craft stores — is effective at retaining the shape and colour of preserved flowers. Fill an airtight container with the gel, place the flowers on top, and cover with more gel until fully submerged. Seal and store in a dark, dry place. The process takes only a few days, which makes it a practical option for those leaving on honeymoon shortly after the wedding. Note that silica gel sachets carry a risk of toxicity, so use rubber gloves throughout.
Preserving in wax is a shorter-term solution — it extends the life of the flowers by around six months rather than preserving them indefinitely. Melt paraffin wax, or soy wax for a plant-based alternative, in a heatproof container set over hot water. Dip the flower heads briefly, then hang them upside down to allow the wax to set.
Preserving in wax is a shorter-term solution — it extends the life of the flowers by around six months rather than preserving them indefinitely. Melt paraffin wax, or soy wax for a plant-based alternative, in a heatproof container set over hot water. Dip the flower heads briefly, then hang them upside down to allow the wax to set.
Take your flowers to be freeze-dried
Professional freeze-drying removes moisture from the petals using specialist equipment, preserving the original colour, shape and even the scent of the flowers. It is the most durable of the available methods and the most suitable for couples heading straight to their honeymoon, as the flowers can be handed to a professional before departure. Handle freeze-dried flowers carefully once returned, as they can be fragile.
What to do with your preserved wedding flowers
Paperweights
Freeze-dried flowers can be set in glass as a paperweight — for yourself or as a gift for family members. The window for sending flowers to a preserver is up to ten days after the wedding, though the sooner they are sent, the better the result.
Framing
Pressed flowers can be selected and displayed in a photo frame. Any style of frame works — the flowers themselves are the point. This is one of the more straightforward ways to display preserved blooms without any additional cost beyond the frame.
Tips for preserving flowers
- Decide on your preservation method as quickly as possible after the ceremony, particularly if you have a honeymoon planned
- Use hairspray or artist’s fixative spray on air-dried flowers for additional protection
- Cut stems to an appropriate length for the method you have chosen
- Remove any faded or damaged foliage before preserving — the most vivid flowers, such as orange or yellow varieties, will give the best result
- Keep some of the wedding confetti and include it in framed arrangements for a more complete memento of the day
- Flowers with a high water content, such as lilies, are not well suited to drying
Read more about how to preserve flowers on the Flower Council of Holland website.
Wedding Flower Preservation Techniques
Press your flowers
Pressing is an inexpensive and straightforward method that requires only a heavy book or two. Line the book with parchment or newspaper, place the flowers on top, and add another layer of paper before closing the book to prevent ink from transferring onto the petals. Weigh the book down with additional weight and store in a warm, dry place. Most flowers dry within a week, though larger or denser varieties may take longer.
Hang them to dry
Air-drying works particularly well for larger flowers such as sunflowers or peonies. Tie the stems together with wire or string and hang them upside down in a cool, dark place such as a wardrobe or cupboard. Direct sunlight will cause the colours to fade, so keep them away from windows and check on them at intervals. Once dry, a light coat of hairspray adds protection and helps prevent crumbling.
Cover in silica gel or wax
Silica gel — available from craft stores — is effective at retaining the shape and colour of preserved flowers. Fill an airtight container with the gel, place the flowers on top, and cover with more gel until fully submerged. Seal and store in a dark, dry place. The process takes only a few days, which makes it a practical option for those leaving on honeymoon shortly after the wedding. Note that silica gel sachets carry a risk of toxicity, so use rubber gloves throughout.
Preserving in wax is a shorter-term solution — it extends the life of the flowers by around six months rather than preserving them indefinitely. Melt paraffin wax, or soy wax for a plant-based alternative, in a heatproof container set over hot water. Dip the flower heads briefly, then hang them upside down to allow the wax to set.
Preserving in wax is a shorter-term solution — it extends the life of the flowers by around six months rather than preserving them indefinitely. Melt paraffin wax, or soy wax for a plant-based alternative, in a heatproof container set over hot water. Dip the flower heads briefly, then hang them upside down to allow the wax to set.
Take your flowers to be freeze-dried
Professional freeze-drying removes moisture from the petals using specialist equipment, preserving the original colour, shape and even the scent of the flowers. It is the most durable of the available methods and the most suitable for couples heading straight to their honeymoon, as the flowers can be handed to a professional before departure. Handle freeze-dried flowers carefully once returned, as they can be fragile.
What to do with your preserved wedding flowers
Paperweights
Freeze-dried flowers can be set in glass as a paperweight — for yourself or as a gift for family members. The window for sending flowers to a preserver is up to ten days after the wedding, though the sooner they are sent, the better the result.
Framing
Pressed flowers can be selected and displayed in a photo frame. Any style of frame works — the flowers themselves are the point. This is one of the more straightforward ways to display preserved blooms without any additional cost beyond the frame.
Tips for preserving flowers
- Decide on your preservation method as quickly as possible after the ceremony, particularly if you have a honeymoon planned
- Use hairspray or artist’s fixative spray on air-dried flowers for additional protection
- Cut stems to an appropriate length for the method you have chosen
- Remove any faded or damaged foliage before preserving — the most vivid flowers, such as orange or yellow varieties, will give the best result
- Keep some of the wedding confetti and include it in framed arrangements for a more complete memento of the day
- Flowers with a high water content, such as lilies, are not well suited to drying
Read more about how to preserve flowers on the Flower Council of Holland website.
Wedding flowers are chosen with care — for their colour, their fragrance, and the symbolic meanings attached to them. Because fresh flowers deteriorate quickly, many couples choose to preserve their bouquet after the ceremony. If you are planning to toss yours, it is worth having a second arrangement set aside — one to throw, and one to keep.
Wedding Flower Preservation Techniques
Press your flowers
Pressing is an inexpensive and straightforward method that requires only a heavy book or two. Line the book with parchment or newspaper, place the flowers on top, and add another layer of paper before closing the book to prevent ink from transferring onto the petals. Weigh the book down with additional weight and store in a warm, dry place. Most flowers dry within a week, though larger or denser varieties may take longer.
Hang them to dry
Air-drying works particularly well for larger flowers such as sunflowers or peonies. Tie the stems together with wire or string and hang them upside down in a cool, dark place such as a wardrobe or cupboard. Direct sunlight will cause the colours to fade, so keep them away from windows and check on them at intervals. Once dry, a light coat of hairspray adds protection and helps prevent crumbling.
Cover in silica gel or wax
Silica gel — available from craft stores — is effective at retaining the shape and colour of preserved flowers. Fill an airtight container with the gel, place the flowers on top, and cover with more gel until fully submerged. Seal and store in a dark, dry place. The process takes only a few days, which makes it a practical option for those leaving on honeymoon shortly after the wedding. Note that silica gel sachets carry a risk of toxicity, so use rubber gloves throughout.
Preserving in wax is a shorter-term solution — it extends the life of the flowers by around six months rather than preserving them indefinitely. Melt paraffin wax, or soy wax for a plant-based alternative, in a heatproof container set over hot water. Dip the flower heads briefly, then hang them upside down to allow the wax to set.
Preserving in wax is a shorter-term solution — it extends the life of the flowers by around six months rather than preserving them indefinitely. Melt paraffin wax, or soy wax for a plant-based alternative, in a heatproof container set over hot water. Dip the flower heads briefly, then hang them upside down to allow the wax to set.
Take your flowers to be freeze-dried
Professional freeze-drying removes moisture from the petals using specialist equipment, preserving the original colour, shape and even the scent of the flowers. It is the most durable of the available methods and the most suitable for couples heading straight to their honeymoon, as the flowers can be handed to a professional before departure. Handle freeze-dried flowers carefully once returned, as they can be fragile.
What to do with your preserved wedding flowers
Paperweights
Freeze-dried flowers can be set in glass as a paperweight — for yourself or as a gift for family members. The window for sending flowers to a preserver is up to ten days after the wedding, though the sooner they are sent, the better the result.
Framing
Pressed flowers can be selected and displayed in a photo frame. Any style of frame works — the flowers themselves are the point. This is one of the more straightforward ways to display preserved blooms without any additional cost beyond the frame.
Tips for preserving flowers
- Decide on your preservation method as quickly as possible after the ceremony, particularly if you have a honeymoon planned
- Use hairspray or artist’s fixative spray on air-dried flowers for additional protection
- Cut stems to an appropriate length for the method you have chosen
- Remove any faded or damaged foliage before preserving — the most vivid flowers, such as orange or yellow varieties, will give the best result
- Keep some of the wedding confetti and include it in framed arrangements for a more complete memento of the day
- Flowers with a high water content, such as lilies, are not well suited to drying
Read more about how to preserve flowers on the Flower Council of Holland website.
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