how to keep boutonnieres fresh

Everly

2 min read

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18-01-2025

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Wedding boutonnieres are beautiful finishing touches to any groom's attire and the groomsmen's. But their delicate nature means they need special care to stay vibrant and fresh throughout the big day. This guide will provide tips and tricks to ensure your boutonnieres remain picture-perfect from ceremony to reception. Proper care means you can focus on enjoying your special day rather than worrying about wilting flowers.

Preparing Your Boutonnieres for the Big Day

Timing is Key: The best time to have your boutonnieres made is the day before the wedding or the morning of. This minimizes the time they spend outside of a cool, hydrated environment.

Hydration is Essential: Florists typically use floral food and water tubes to keep boutonnieres hydrated. Ensure these are in place and filled with fresh water before arranging them.

Proper Storage: Store your boutonnieres in a cool, dark place, ideally in a refrigerator. Avoid placing them near fruits or vegetables, which release ethylene gas and accelerate wilting. This helps them maintain their freshness overnight.

Keeping Boutonnieres Fresh on the Wedding Day

Transportation: Transport boutonnieres in a cool, dark container. A cooler bag with ice packs (not directly touching the flowers) is perfect. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight or hot cars.

Placement: Before pinning boutonnieres onto lapels, gently rehydrate them by misting lightly with cool water. Avoid over-misting, which can damage the flowers.

Pinning Techniques: Use strong pins or special boutonniere holders. This keeps the stems secure and prevents drooping.

Afternoon Refreshment: If the wedding extends into the afternoon, consider having a designated person responsible for lightly misting the boutonnieres with water throughout the day. This will help them maintain their freshness and vibrancy.

Out of Direct Sun: Keep the boutonnieres out of direct sunlight as much as possible. Sunlight can quickly dehydrate and damage them.

Troubleshooting Common Boutonniere Problems

Wilting: If a boutonniere starts to wilt, quickly mist it with cool water and gently re-arrange the flowers.

Drooping: Drooping can be caused by improper pinning or dehydration. Re-pin securely and mist with water.

Brown Edges: Brown edges often indicate dehydration. Mist the boutonniere and try placing it in a cool, humid environment for a while.

Choosing Long-Lasting Flowers for Boutonnieres

Some flowers naturally hold up better than others. Discuss your options with your florist. Popular choices include:

• Roses: Classic and elegant, but choose tightly-budded roses for longer lasting blooms.
• Carnations: Durable and available in many colors.
• Spray Roses: Offer a fuller look with smaller blooms that last well.
• Calla Lilies: Elegant and long-lasting, but can be more expensive.
• Lisianthus: Delicate appearance but remarkably durable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long will my boutonnieres stay fresh?

A: With proper care, your boutonnieres should stay fresh for at least 8-12 hours. Some flowers, with proper care, may even last longer.

Q: Can I refrigerate my boutonnieres?

A: Yes, refrigerating your boutonnieres in a cool, dark place is highly recommended. Just ensure they are not near fruits and vegetables that release ethylene gas.

Q: What should I do if my boutonnieres start to wilt during the wedding?

A: Lightly mist them with cool water, and reposition the flowers to help them look their best.

By following these tips, you can ensure your boutonnieres remain fresh and beautiful throughout your special day. Remember to communicate with your florist and plan ahead for optimal results. The resulting stunning floral accents will be a beautiful memory for years to come.