I grew up in my mom's flower shop, and weddings were her specialty. I watched a lot of bridal bouquets go out that door. So I'll admit this trend warms my heart. Those flowers were chosen with care, and they deserve better than the trash bin.
From a florist's son
Keeping Your Bouquet After the Wedding
A lot of brides now want to keep their bouquet instead of letting it wilt on the hotel dresser. Some have it pressed and framed. Others have it dried, or even set in resin as a keepsake.
If you want to save yours, plan ahead
- Decide before the wedding. Preservation works best when the flowers go to the preserver within a few days.
- Pick someone to handle it. You'll be busy, so ask your mom or a bridesmaid to take charge of the bouquet that night.
- Ask your florist. Some flowers dry beautifully, and others turn brown. A good florist can steer you.
- Don't toss the real one. If you want a bouquet toss, order a small, inexpensive second bouquet for it.
Twenty years from now, you'll be glad you kept it.
Still choosing your flowers? Start with my five essential tips for wedding flowers.
More plain talk: see all of David's Take