1. What are “Preserved Flowers”?
Preserved flowers are flowers that have been specially processed to retain their shape, flexibility and softness. They are not silk nor are they freeze-dried flowers that are fragile and can break apart.

2. How are the flowers preserved?
Preserved flowers come from all over the world and the USA. How they are preserved are proprietary and trade secrets. However, some or all processors systemically preserved their products using glycerin in their solutions. Fresh cut flower stems are placed in a solution/water mixture which allows the leaves and stems to draw the solution up. This is called systemic preserving. Systemic preserving has become a sophisticated technology and most manufacturers have developed formulas in which glycerin is a large component but not the only component. Various other additives are added to prevent spoilage, weeping, etc., to keep the flowers soft and to help them to last. Many natural colors are destroyed in the process and need to be supplemented with dyes. That is how our flowers have such vibrant colors.

3. Why should I buy a preserved bouquet?
Your wedding flowers are one of the most important elements of your wedding. They supplement a color scheme and theme and represent a significant part of the wedding budget. Choosing your flowers within your budget can determine the type of flowers as well as the colors. Some fresh flowers are very expensive at certain times of the year when the demand is greater. Preserved florals offer the advantage over fresh in that they can be purchased anytime during the year, are very close in price to fresh and yet will provide you with years of pleasure with proper care. Preserved bouquets can be made in advance of the wedding date so that you can see your flowers to assure that they are perfect. That is one less thing to worry about on your day. Also, having a preserved bouquet before the wedding allows you the opportunity to have your wedding portrait done with your actual bouquet.

4. What is the advantage of buying a preserved bouquet before the wedding rather than preserving a fresh flower bouquet after the wedding?
Preserving your fresh flower bouquet after the wedding takes planning in advance and can be very expensive. You have to contact the preservation company in advance to have a mailer sent to you so that the bouquet can be packed and sent to them after the wedding. The flowers have to be packaged and shipped to the preservation company as soon as possible after the wedding, which also causes a delay due to shipping. The condition of the flowers, which are subjected to heat, sun, breakage and damage throughout the wedding day, will affect their preservation. Any flowers that are damaged have to be replaced with another fresh flower, if possible, which increases costs. Also, some of the flowers can change colors due to the freeze-drying process. It is more economical to purchase preserved bouquets and save the extra expense.

5.How should I care for my bouquet?
Preserved florals should be kept in a cool, dry room, away from bright sunlight, high humidity or high heat. High humidity and high heat can damage preserved florals. Air conditioning is recommended in hot, humid climates. Place your bouquet in a glass or acrylic dome or case, shadow box or a glass cabinet. If the flowers get dusty, just dust with a feather duster or use a hair dryer with no heat. Do not allow the flowers to get wet as some of the dyes may leach out. Do not place your bouquets on your gowns.

6. Do you preserve bouquets after the wedding?
No, Liz Ann does not provide preservation services.

7. Are the bouquets on the gallery pages the only ones that you do?
No, the bouquets on the gallery pages are samples provided to illustrate various designs, ideas and color schemes. Liz Ann provides customized bouquets, boutonnieres, corsages, floral arrangements and centerpieces per the bride’s specifications.

8. How long will the flowers last?
Preserved flowers are meant to last a long time; exact time is difficult to determine due to the fact that many variables can affect longevity of the flowers such as heat, moisture, sunlight in the environment. See #5 above. With proper care, preserved florals will last a long time, even years.

9. How do I go about ordering bouquets for my wedding?
Contact us via e-mail or phone to set up an appointment for a free in-studio consultation or consultation via phone. Bring or mail swatches of gowns and sample photos of bouquets, if you would like, to help us plan for your special day. Together we will discuss your dreams and wishes and budget to assure that your flowers are all that you want them to be. (See Terms and Conditions)