Tips for Preserving Funeral Flowers

Saying goodbye to a loved one is never easy, and the beauty and symbolism of flowers can bring comfort during difficult times. The floral arrangements at funerals often hold a special significance, honoring the life of the deceased and providing solace to those left behind. While funeral flowers are ephemeral by nature, there are steps you can take to preserve their beauty and cherish the memories they represent. In this article, we will provide you with some valuable tips on how to preserve funeral flowers.

1. Act Quickly

The preservation of funeral flowers starts as soon as the service ends. Act quickly to ensure the best chance of success. Once you receive the flowers, remove any ribbons, cards, or other non-biological items. Gently lay out the flowers on a clean surface.

2. Preserving Techniques

There are various techniques you can employ to preserve your funeral flowers. Here are a few options:

Drying

The most traditional method of preserving flowers is by drying them. Hang the flowers upside down in a dark, dry space for a few weeks until they are completely dried. This method works well for flowers with sturdy petals like roses, lilies, and chrysanthemums.

Pressing

Pressing flowers between heavy books is another popular preservation technique. Place the flowers in the pages of a book, making sure they are not touching each other. Stack multiple heavy books on top and leave them for several weeks. This method works best for smaller, delicate flowers such as pansies or violets.

Freezing

Freezing is an effective method for preserving the color and shape of flowers. Place the flowers in an airtight container or freeze-drying kit and store them in the freezer. This technique works well for flowers that are prone to wilting quickly, such as orchids or tulips.

3. Removing Moisture

Before preserving funeral flowers, it is vital to remove as much moisture as possible. Moisture can cause the flowers to rot or lose their shape during the preservation process. You can accomplish this by placing them in a desiccant, such as silica gel or borax. These materials will absorb the moisture while maintaining the flower's form.

4. Use a Spray Sealant

A spray sealant can help protect the flowers from humidity and additional moisture. Apply a thin coat of the sealant to the blossoms, ensuring that it reaches all parts of the flowers. This will create a barrier that helps preserve the natural colors and prevent fading over time.

5. Displaying Preserved Flowers

Preserved funeral flowers make a meaningful and lasting tribute. Once your flowers are preserved, there are several creative ways to display them:

Shadow Box

Frame your preserved flowers in a shadow box, creating a beautiful 3D display. Arrange the flowers in a way that showcases their unique shapes and colors. This method allows you to hang the box on the wall or place it on a tabletop or mantel.

Glass Dome

Place your preserved flowers inside a glass dome for an elegant and sophisticated look. This method is especially suitable for larger floral arrangements. The glass dome will protect the flowers while allowing you to admire them from any angle.

Resizable Frames

Consider using resizable frames to preserve flowers that have sentimental value. This allows you to display a single flower or a small bouquet. The resizable frames provide flexibility, making them a versatile option for showcasing your preserved funeral flowers.

6. Caring for Preserved Flowers

Preserved funeral flowers require minimal care to maintain their longevity:

Avoid Direct Sunlight

Direct sunlight can cause the colors of preserved flowers to fade over time. Therefore, it's best to display them away from windows or other areas where they may be exposed to prolonged sunlight.

Keep Away from Humidity

High humidity can affect the shape and color of preserved flowers. Avoid displaying them in rooms where there is excessive moisture, such as bathrooms or kitchens. Instead, opt for a cool and dry environment.

Handle with Care

Preserved flowers are delicate and can be easily damaged if not handled with care. Avoid touching them frequently and be cautious when cleaning or moving them.

7. Special Occasions

Preserved funeral flowers are not limited to funerals alone. They can also be repurposed for special occasions to honor the memory of your loved one. Some ideas include using preserved flowers for:

Anniversaries

On your loved one's anniversary, incorporate preserved flowers into a display as a tribute to their memory. This can be in the form of a centerpiece, wreath, or other arrangements.

Memorial Services

If you hold a memorial service in honor of your loved one on their birthday or another significant date, preserved funeral flowers can add a touch of remembrance and beauty to the event.

Family Gatherings

Display preserved flowers at family gatherings or reunions to keep the memory of your loved one alive. This serves as a visual reminder of their presence and the impact they had on your lives.

8. DIY Projects

Preserved funeral flowers offer endless possibilities for creative DIY projects:

Resin Jewelry

Embed preserved flowers in resin to create unique and sentimental jewelry pieces. This can include necklaces, earrings, or even decorative resin keychains.

Keepsake Candles

Make your own keepsake candles by placing a preserved flower on the surface of a melted candle. As the wax solidifies, the flower will be beautifully preserved within.

Decorative Soaps

Create decorative soaps by embedding small preserved flowers within clear soap bars. This adds a touch of elegance to your bathroom decor while preserving the memory of your loved one.

9. Donating Preserved Flowers

If you are unable to preserve the funeral flowers yourself or would like to share their beauty with others, consider donating them to a relevant organization:

Hospitals and Nursing Homes

Donate preserved flowers to hospitals and nursing homes to bring joy to patients and residents. The vibrant colors and natural beauty of the flowers can provide comfort during their time of need.

Charitable Organizations

Many charitable organizations, such as local hospice centers or women's shelters, appreciate the donation of preserved funeral flowers. These organizations can find creative ways to repurpose the flowers and bring a sense of hope to those they serve.

10. Creating Lasting Memories

Preserving funeral flowers is a way to create lasting memories and honor the life of your loved one. Whether you choose to display them in your home or repurpose them for various DIY projects, the presence of these preserved flowers serves as a reminder of the love and memories shared.

Capturing Essence

Preserved funeral flowers capture the essence of the person they represent. They symbolize the beauty of life and the legacy left behind, allowing you to keep their memory alive for years to come.

Remembering with Beauty

By preserving funeral flowers, you transform them into enduring symbols of love and remembrance. Their beauty becomes a source of solace and strength, ensuring that the memories of your loved ones will never fade.

At Artisan Palace, we understand the significance of funeral flowers and the desire to preserve their beauty. We hope that these tips will help you in your journey of honoring and cherishing the memories of your loved ones.