What to Do with Dried Wedding Flowers: A Journey Through Memory and Creativity

Weddings are magical events filled with love, joy, and unforgettable memories. Among the many cherished elements of a wedding, flowers hold a special place. They symbolize beauty, romance, and the fleeting nature of life. But what happens to those beautiful blooms once the celebration is over? Dried wedding flowers can be more than just keepsakes; they can be transformed into meaningful and creative projects that keep the memories alive for years to come. In this article, we’ll explore a variety of ideas for what to do with dried wedding flowers, from sentimental keepsakes to artistic endeavors.
1. Create a Shadow Box Display
A shadow box is a beautiful way to preserve and display your dried wedding flowers. This three-dimensional frame allows you to arrange the flowers alongside other wedding mementos, such as your invitation, a piece of lace from your dress, or a photo from the big day. The result is a stunning piece of wall art that tells the story of your wedding.
How to Do It:
- Choose a shadow box frame that complements your home decor.
- Arrange the dried flowers and other items in a visually appealing way.
- Use glue or pins to secure the items in place.
- Hang the shadow box in a prominent spot in your home.
2. Make Potpourri
Turn your dried wedding flowers into a fragrant potpourri that can fill your home with the scent of your special day. Potpourri is easy to make and can be customized with essential oils and additional dried herbs or spices.
How to Do It:
- Break the dried flowers into smaller pieces.
- Mix the flowers with complementary ingredients like dried lavender, rose petals, or citrus peels.
- Add a few drops of essential oil for extra fragrance.
- Place the potpourri in a decorative bowl or sachet.
3. Design a Resin Keepsake
Resin art has become increasingly popular, and it’s a fantastic way to preserve your dried wedding flowers. You can create resin jewelry, coasters, or even paperweights that encapsulate the beauty of your blooms.
How to Do It:
- Choose a mold for your resin project (e.g., a pendant mold for jewelry).
- Arrange the dried flowers in the mold.
- Mix and pour the resin according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Allow the resin to cure completely before removing it from the mold.
4. Craft a Flower Crown or Wreath
A dried flower crown or wreath can be a beautiful addition to your home decor. Hang it on your front door, above your bed, or in your living room as a constant reminder of your wedding day.
How to Do It:
- Gather the dried flowers and arrange them into a circular shape.
- Use floral wire or hot glue to secure the flowers in place.
- Add ribbons or other decorative elements if desired.
5. Press the Flowers for Framing
Pressed flowers are timeless and elegant. You can press your wedding flowers and frame them as a standalone piece of art or incorporate them into a larger project, such as a scrapbook or journal.
How to Do It:
- Place the flowers between sheets of parchment paper or in a flower press.
- Apply weight and let the flowers dry for several weeks.
- Once pressed, arrange the flowers in a frame or scrapbook.
6. Create Custom Candles
Embed your dried wedding flowers into homemade candles for a unique and romantic keepsake. These candles can be used during anniversaries or special occasions to evoke the memories of your wedding day.
How to Do It:
- Melt candle wax and pour it into a mold or container.
- Place the dried flowers along the sides of the container before the wax hardens.
- Allow the wax to cool and set completely.
7. Make a Memory Jar
A memory jar is a simple yet heartfelt way to preserve your dried wedding flowers. Fill a glass jar with the flowers and add other small mementos, such as notes, photos, or trinkets from your wedding.
How to Do It:
- Choose a decorative jar with a tight-fitting lid.
- Layer the dried flowers and other items inside the jar.
- Seal the jar and display it in a special place.
8. Incorporate Them into Jewelry
Dried wedding flowers can be transformed into wearable art. Consider creating custom jewelry pieces, such as pendants, earrings, or bracelets, that feature your preserved blooms.
How to Do It:
- Use resin or glass cabochons to encase the dried flowers.
- Attach the encased flowers to jewelry findings.
- Wear your unique piece with pride.
9. Use Them in a Scrapbook
A wedding scrapbook is a wonderful way to document your special day. Incorporate your dried flowers into the pages alongside photos, tickets, and other memorabilia.
How to Do It:
- Arrange the dried flowers on the scrapbook pages.
- Use adhesive to secure them in place.
- Add captions, stickers, or other decorative elements.
10. Create a Flower Petal Confetti
If you have a large quantity of dried petals, consider turning them into confetti for future celebrations. This eco-friendly confetti can be used at anniversaries, vow renewals, or even baby showers.
How to Do It:
- Gently separate the petals from the dried flowers.
- Store the petals in an airtight container until needed.
- Toss the petals during your next celebration.
11. Make a Dreamcatcher
Incorporate your dried wedding flowers into a dreamcatcher for a bohemian-inspired keepsake. Hang it above your bed to bring a touch of your wedding day into your everyday life.
How to Do It:
- Create or purchase a dreamcatcher base.
- Attach the dried flowers to the base using string or glue.
- Add beads, feathers, or other decorative elements.
12. Use Them in a Bath Soak
Dried flowers can add a luxurious touch to your bath routine. Create a homemade bath soak using your wedding flowers for a relaxing and romantic experience.
How to Do It:
- Mix dried flower petals with Epsom salts and baking soda.
- Add a few drops of essential oil for fragrance.
- Store the mixture in a jar and use it as needed.
13. Create a Flower-Infused Perfume
Capture the scent of your wedding day by making a flower-infused perfume. This unique fragrance will remind you of your special day every time you wear it.
How to Do It:
- Place dried flowers in a carrier oil (such as jojoba or almond oil).
- Let the mixture sit for several weeks to infuse.
- Strain the oil and transfer it to a perfume bottle.
14. Make a Flower Petal Path
If you’re planning a vow renewal or anniversary celebration, use your dried flower petals to create a beautiful path or aisle decoration.
How to Do It:
- Scatter the petals along the path or aisle.
- Combine them with fresh flowers or greenery for added impact.
15. Donate Them to a Good Cause
If you’re looking for a meaningful way to part with your dried wedding flowers, consider donating them to a local nursing home, hospital, or community center. Your flowers can bring joy to others and continue to spread love.
FAQs
Q: How long do dried wedding flowers last? A: With proper care, dried wedding flowers can last for years. Keep them away from direct sunlight and moisture to preserve their color and shape.
Q: Can I mix dried flowers with fresh flowers in arrangements? A: Yes, mixing dried and fresh flowers can create a unique and textured look. Just be mindful of the different care requirements for each type.
Q: What’s the best way to dry wedding flowers? A: The most common methods are air drying, using silica gel, or pressing. Choose the method that best suits the type of flowers you have.
Q: Can I use dried wedding flowers in cooking or teas? A: Only if the flowers are edible and have been dried without chemicals. Always verify the safety of the flowers before using them in food or beverages.
Q: How can I prevent dried flowers from fading? A: Store them in a cool, dark place and avoid exposing them to direct sunlight or humidity. You can also use a UV-protective spray to help preserve their color.
Dried wedding flowers are more than just remnants of a special day; they are tokens of love and creativity. By transforming them into meaningful keepsakes or artistic projects, you can keep the magic of your wedding alive for years to come. Whether you choose to create a shadow box, make potpourri, or design resin jewelry, the possibilities are endless. Let your imagination bloom!