How Long Does Wedding Flower Preservation Take?
Preserving your wedding flowers is a meticulous process that requires time and care to ensure your blooms remain beautiful for years to come. The duration of wedding flower preservation can vary depending on the method used. Typically, professional preservationists take anywhere from 4 to 12 weeks to complete the process. This timeline includes drying, treating, and finalizing the arrangement, whether in a shadow box, resin block, or other form of display.
Factors Influencing Preservation Time
- Preservation Method: The method you choose to preserve your wedding flowers plays a key role in the timeline. For example:
- Resin preservation often takes the longest because the flowers must be dried thoroughly before being encased in resin. This process involves multiple layers of resin that must be poured and cured over time. Expect resin preservation to take around 8 to 12 weeks.
- Shadow boxes and pressed flowers typically take a little less time, averaging between 4 to 6 weeks. These methods still require drying the flowers completely to ensure longevity, but the overall process is less involved than resin.
- Condition of the Flowers: Flowers that are fresher when submitted to the preservationist are easier to work with and dry. If the flowers have wilted or been exposed to extreme conditions, this may lengthen the process. The preservationist may need to take extra care to restore or stabilize the flowers before starting the preservation method.
- Complexity of the Arrangement: Larger or more intricate bouquets take longer to preserve than simple, smaller arrangements. If you’re looking for a detailed, multi-flower resin block or shadow box, you may expect the preservation process to extend slightly beyond average timelines.
Why Preservation Takes Time
Preserving flowers is an art form that requires patience. The drying process, in particular, is crucial to ensuring your flowers maintain their shape, color, and texture over time. Rushing this process can lead to brittle or discolored blooms. By taking time to dry the flowers properly, you ensure they remain intact and ready for preservation.
Additionally, resin blocks require several layers of resin, each needing time to dry before another can be poured. This slow curing ensures the flowers are sealed properly and reduces the chance of bubbles forming within the resin.
What to Expect After You Submit Your Flowers
After your wedding day, the process typically begins as soon as the preservationist receives your flowers. You’ll want to send your flowers immediately after the wedding to ensure they’re in the best condition possible. Most preservationists provide instructions on how to pack and ship your flowers to prevent damage during transit.
Once received, the preservationist will carefully begin the drying process, which can take a couple of weeks depending on the method used. For resin preservation, this will be followed by the layering process that seals your flowers within the block or jewelry piece.
Can the Process Be Rushed?
If you need your preserved bouquet sooner, some preservationists may offer rush services at an additional cost. However, it’s important to understand that rushing the process could affect the quality of the preservation. Always ask your preservationist if they offer expedited services and what that might mean for your bouquet’s longevity.
Why Is Flower Preservation Worth the Wait?
Though the process can take several weeks, the wait is well worth it. By taking the necessary time to dry and preserve your flowers, you’ll have a stunning, lasting keepsake from your wedding day that you can cherish for years. Proper preservation techniques ensure your flowers retain their color and shape, capturing the beauty and memories of your wedding day for the long term.
Preserving Flowers
Wedding flower preservation typically takes anywhere from 5 to 6 months depending on the method and complexity. While this may seem like a long time, remember that preserving flowers is a delicate and artistic process that guarantees your bouquet will last for years to come. For any bride looking to keep a beautiful reminder of their special day, flower preservation is a worthwhile investment in your memories.
Contact me if you’re interested in preserving your wedding bouquet! I offer custom preservation options and can help guide you through the process.
