keeping your event flowers lookin’ good
Planning an event and want your flowers to look amazing all day? Here's a handy guide to keep your blooms fresh and beautiful, with some expert tips and tricks:
before the event
Timing is Everything: Try to schedule your flower delivery for the day of the event. Getting them too early can make them wilt faster.
Easy on the Travel: When moving flowers, keep them in their original packaging to protect them. Avoid keeping them in a hot trunk and do your best to keep them out of direct sunlight. Consider using a vehicle that has a large flat surface like an SUV trunk or foot space between seats. This will help avoid the arrangements from tipping, spilling, or getting damaged. If you can, have someone hold the most delicate arrangement(s) on their lap to prevent jostling.
Hydrate Those Flowers: If you have bulk flowers or any loose stems in your order, as soon as your flowers arrive, put the stems in clean buckets with room-temperature water. Let them soak up the water for at least six hours. Don’t forget to trim the stems at a 45-degree angle with sharp scissors for better water intake.
Keep Them Cool: Store your flowers in a cool spot, away from direct sunlight, drafts, and heat sources like heaters or air conditioners. If you’re using a fridge, make sure to keep flowers away from fruits and veggies. Those release a gas that can make flowers age quicker.
during the event
Stay Hydrated: Keep the vases filled with water as much as possible, especially if it’s hot out. Don’t fill them too high, though. You don’t want a wet mess if an arrangement gets bumped. Depending on the depth of the vessel, I like to make sure there is enough water to touch the tip of my finger when I poke my finger about 2 inches down into the vase.
Out of Harm’s Way: Place flowers where pets, kids, and lots of foot traffic won’t be able to knock them over or damage them.
extra tips
Mind the Temperature: Let your florist know if your venue might be really hot or cold. They can recommend flowers that will hold up better and give you storage tips.
Coordinate Your Schedule: If you’ve got a lot of activities or photo sessions planned, work out delivery and setup times with your florist. This way, your flowers will look their best when you need them.
Backup Plan: Have a plan B for unexpected weather or venue changes that might affect your flowers. Talk to your florist about backup options.
Get Some Help: If you can, hire a professional florist to handle setup and maintenance. This takes one thing off your plate and ensures the flowers are in expert hands.
Follow these tips and your event flowers will stay fresh and gorgeous!
