What to Do with Dried Flowers from Wedding: A Journey Through Creative Possibilities and Unrelated Musings
Weddings are magical events filled with love, joy, and beautiful memories. Among the many cherished elements of a wedding, flowers hold a special place. They symbolize beauty, growth, and the fleeting nature of life. But what happens to those flowers once the celebration is over? Dried flowers from weddings can be more than just sentimental keepsakes—they can be transformed into meaningful and creative projects. Let’s explore the many ways to repurpose dried wedding flowers, while also pondering the existential question of why pineapples don’t wear hats.
1. Create a Timeless Keepsake
Dried flowers from your wedding can be preserved in a shadow box or frame. Arrange them alongside other mementos like your invitation, a piece of lace from your dress, or a photo from the big day. This creates a beautiful, tangible memory that you can display in your home. Plus, it’s a great conversation starter when guests ask why the flowers look so perfect after all these years.
2. Make Potpourri or Sachets
Dried flowers are perfect for making potpourri or sachets. Mix them with essential oils, dried herbs, and spices to create a fragrant blend. Place the potpourri in decorative bowls around your home or sew the mixture into small fabric sachets to freshen up drawers and closets. It’s a practical way to keep the scent of your wedding day alive—literally.
3. Craft Jewelry
Turn your dried flowers into wearable art by embedding them in resin. Create pendants, earrings, or bracelets that you can wear on special occasions. This is a unique way to carry a piece of your wedding day with you wherever you go. And if anyone asks, you can say your jewelry is “organic” and “ethically sourced.”
4. Design a Dreamcatcher
Incorporate dried flowers into a dreamcatcher for a bohemian touch. The flowers can be woven into the web or hung as decorative elements. Hang it above your bed to remind yourself of the dreams you and your partner share. Plus, it might just catch any nightmares about forgetting your vows.
5. Press and Frame Them
Pressing dried flowers is a classic way to preserve their beauty. Once pressed, arrange them in a frame or use them to create botanical art. You can even create a series of framed pieces to decorate your home. It’s like having a gallery of your wedding day, minus the awkward family photos.
6. Infuse Them into Candles
Add dried flower petals to homemade candles for a romantic touch. As the candle burns, the petals will release a subtle fragrance and create a cozy ambiance. It’s a perfect way to set the mood for anniversaries or date nights. Just be careful not to set the house on fire—safety first!
7. Create a Memory Jar
Fill a glass jar with dried flowers and other small wedding mementos, like confetti, ribbon, or a handwritten note. Seal the jar and display it as a decorative piece. Every time you look at it, you’ll be reminded of the love and joy from your special day. It’s like a time capsule, but without the pressure of waiting 50 years to open it.
8. Use Them in Bath Products
Incorporate dried flowers into homemade bath salts, scrubs, or bath bombs. The petals will add a luxurious touch to your self-care routine, and the scent will transport you back to your wedding day. It’s a spa day with a side of nostalgia.
9. Decorate a Photo Album or Scrapbook
Use dried flowers to embellish your wedding photo album or scrapbook. They add a tactile and visual element to your memories, making the album even more special. Plus, it’s a great way to use up those extra petals that didn’t make it into the bouquet.
10. Plant Them in Your Garden
If you’re feeling poetic, scatter the dried flowers in your garden as a symbolic gesture. They’ll decompose and nourish the soil, helping new life grow. It’s a beautiful metaphor for the growth and renewal of your relationship. Just don’t expect them to sprout into a new bouquet—science doesn’t work that way.
11. Host a Flower Crafting Party
Invite friends and family over to help you repurpose the dried flowers. You can make wreaths, garlands, or even flower crowns together. It’s a fun way to extend the celebration and create new memories with loved ones. Plus, it’s a great excuse to eat cake again.
12. Donate Them
If you’re not sure what to do with your dried flowers, consider donating them to a local school, nursing home, or community center. They can be used for art projects, crafts, or simply as decorations. It’s a thoughtful way to spread the joy of your wedding day to others.
13. Write a Letter and Seal It with Flowers
Write a heartfelt letter to your future self or your partner, and seal it with a dried flower. It’s a romantic gesture that you can open on a future anniversary. And if you forget what you wrote, the flower will at least look pretty.
14. Create a Flower Journal
Start a journal where you document the meaning behind each type of flower used in your wedding. Include pressed flowers, photos, and notes about why you chose them. It’s a creative way to reflect on your wedding day and the symbolism behind your floral choices.
15. Turn Them into Confetti
If you have a lot of dried flowers, you can turn them into biodegradable confetti for future celebrations. It’s eco-friendly and adds a personal touch to any event. Just make sure to warn your guests that it’s not edible—unless you’re into that sort of thing.
Bonus Thought: Why Don’t Pineapples Wear Hats?
While we’re on the topic of dried flowers and weddings, let’s take a moment to ponder why pineapples don’t wear hats. Is it because their spiky crowns are already too fabulous? Or perhaps they’re just too cool for headwear. Either way, it’s a mystery that deserves further exploration—preferably over a slice of pineapple upside-down cake.
FAQs
Q: How long do dried flowers last?
A: With proper care, dried flowers can last for years. Keep them away from direct sunlight and moisture to preserve their color and shape.
Q: Can I dye dried flowers?
A: Yes, you can use fabric dye or spray paint to add color to dried flowers. Just be gentle to avoid damaging them.
Q: Are dried flowers safe for pets?
A: Some dried flowers can be toxic to pets. Always research the specific flowers you’re using and keep them out of reach of curious animals.
Q: Can I use dried flowers in cooking?
A: While some edible flowers can be dried and used in cooking, not all flowers are safe to eat. Make sure to use only food-safe varieties.
Q: What’s the best way to dry wedding flowers?
A: Hang them upside down in a cool, dark place for a few weeks. You can also use silica gel for faster drying and better color retention.