After months or even years of planning a wedding, most brides feel like they’ve tackled every question and addressed every situation the big day might throw at them. But after all the vows have been said and all the cakes cut, there comes a new question: “How can I preserve my bridal bouquet?”
As people of tradition, especially after fixating so long during planning on doing things the way “your parents did,” it can be easy to take the conventional way out. But let me tell you, gone are the days of merely pressing petals or hanging stems to dry.
It’s out with the old, and in with the new. Fresh and innovative ideas are around every corner. So, we’ve compiled a list of not only our favorite ideas for flower preservation, but also our favorite creatives to pull off each imaginative endeavor.
Custom Artwork
If you’re hoping to capture the essence of your bouquet without all the fuss of cutting apart greenery and blooms, then a personalized piece of artwork is the perfect addition to your (possibly new) home. Without the need for the flowers themselves, these works can also be gifted by a loved one to the newlywed couple who has it all. With it comes a wedding gift that is both meaningful and timeless.
Left: Blushing Rose Floral | Right: Shealeen Louise
Flatlay Breakdown
For a more lifelike take on these artworks, opt for a bouquet breakdown in the form of a photography print. You can ask your florist to provide some styling florals on the big day and have them photographed on a decorative flatlay mat. If you’d prefer all the details be handled by a third party vendor, you can ship your bouquet to be photographed after the knot has been tied. Add stylized labeling and you have a one-of-a-kind piece of art.
Left: The Heirloom Bouquet | Right: Blushing Rose Floral
Resin Accents
Looking for something more… tangible? One of our favorite trends are resin encased blooms. With this modern take on bouquet preservation, you can turn your flowers into something not only beautiful, but functional too. With a diverse range of options, from ring holders and vanity trays to coasters and candle holders, there is something for everyone. Enjoy a reimagined version of your bouquet, suspended in time.
Left: Soil and Soul Studio | Right: Leman
Pressed + Framed
Maybe you prefer the more traditional “dried and pressed” look. If you were hoping for a more hands-on project, this one is for you. Whether you’re drawn to a simple acrylic window or a more classic glass frame, pressed blooms add a beautiful botanical touch. After they’ve been given time to dry, the blooms and greenery can be arranged until you’re pleased with their placement. A sweet message or date can be added for that personal element.
Left: Beijos | Right: A Fabulous Fete
Plaster Impressions
Talk about DIY, these ceramic works of art deserve their own place on this list. For the more craft savvy bride, these projects require a fair amount of skill – and even some trial and error. What you lose in actual preservation, you gain in originality and artistic flair. What’s more, once a cast has been made, it can be reused to duplicate the piece over and over. These tiles can then be gifted to loved ones as a timeless thank-you.
Left: Design Soda | Right: DinaArtDecor on Etsy
