keeping your wedding flowers fresh
Here's a simple guide for busy couples to ensure your wedding flowers stay vibrant throughout your special day, incorporating expert advice and essential tips:
Before the Wedding:
Plan for delivery: If possible, schedule flower delivery for the wedding day, not the day before. This keeps them fresh longer.
Hydration is key: If you have arrangements with loose stems, upon arrival, place flowers in clean buckets filled with fresh, cool water (ideally room temperature for initial rehydration). Let them rehydrate for at least 6 hours. Cut stems diagonally at a 45-degree angle with sharp tools for better water absorption.
Store them cool: Keep flowers in a cool location away from direct sunlight, drafts, and heat sources like air conditioners or heaters. Either a room with air conditioning or a fridge is ideal. If you store them in a fridge, keep them away from fruits and vegetables. They emit a gas called ethylene which can cause cut flowers to age more rapidly and wilting.
Change the water: Replace water daily with cool water.
On the Wedding Day:
Minimize travel time: If traveling with flowers, keep them in their original packaging for support and avoid hot car trunks. If necessary, opt for one person to hold them securely on their lap.
Hydration breaks: Keep bouquets in their vases throughout the day and allow them to rehydrate whenever possible, especially in hot weather. When ready, make sure you take them out of their vases with enough time to allow any dripping to stop. You don’t want a wet dress/outfit!
Beware of "harm's way": Keep flowers away from curious pets, playful children, and anyone who might unintentionally damage them.
Additional Tips:
Discuss temperature concerns: Inform your florist in advance if your venue is likely to be hot or cold. Ask about heat or cold-resistant (yes, we occasionally get cold days in Joshua Tree) flower options and proper storage recommendations.
Communicate your schedule: If you have extensive photo sessions planned, discuss flower delivery and pick-up times with your florist to ensure the flowers are available when needed and don't spend unnecessary time outside of cool storage.
