Choosing the perfect bridal bouquet is much more than just picking flowers; it’s about capturing the essence of your love story and the beauty of your big day in a single, stunning arrangement. Jessica Chalk from For Keeps, a pioneer in flower preservation, shares her invaluable insights on selecting a bridal bouquet that not only complements your wedding theme but also stands as a timeless symbol of your union. 

For Keeps has revolutionized the way we remember our weddings, offering a method to preserve your bouquet’s vibrant colors and delicate shapes far beyond traditional preservation techniques. Let’s dive into Jessica’s expert advice to guide you through choosing your dream bridal bouquet and learn how you can keep this emblem of love as a forever keepsake.

What is your best advice for brides choosing a bouquet?

When asked about the top advice for brides selecting their bouquets, Jessica from For Keeps emphasizes the importance of trusting your florist’s guidance, stating, “Rely on your florist’s expertise this is for a number of reasons.” 

She highlights the longevity and visual appeal of the bouquet throughout the wedding day, noting, “Weddings are long days, and your flowers will be out of water for more than 6 hours. It’s important not only from a flower preservation perspective but also from a photography perspective. Your flowers need to be able to handle the rigmarole of the day and not look wilted and dishevelled in your photos.” 

Jessica advises brides to be open with their preferences while also being receptive to professional suggestions, especially regarding seasonal availability which can significantly impact the bouquet’s appearance and durability. “Your favourite flower may be available at the time of your wedding, but it may be at the start or end of its season, affecting quality and longevity. 

Seasonality, particularly in Australia’s end of Spring and Summer weddings, is important. Take heed of their advice, and sometimes, it is best to settle on a colour scheme or lookbook rather than exact flowers.” 

Furthermore, she underscores the bouquet’s role in enhancing the bride’s overall look: “Secondly, equally is important is using their expertise to complement you and your wedding. Your bouquet should not overpower or cover you but rather complement your waistline and your dress.” This insight underscores the bouquet’s aesthetic and practical considerations, ensuring it adds to the day’s beauty without becoming a hindrance.

Tell us your favorite flower preservation keepsakes for brides?

Jessica shares her enthusiasm for bridal bouquet preservation, revealing her preferred method for turning these floral arrangements into enduring keepsakes. “While our glass displays and rear-mounted perspex are increasing in popularity, I am partial to the timeless of the shadow box frame. This option is so customisable, with over 100 different frames and 200 different mats, that there is truly something for everyone.” 

She expresses a deep fondness for the shadow box frame’s versatility, not just in aesthetics but also in its ability to house other treasured wedding day items. “But what I really love about it is how simple it is to incorporate other heirlooms and memorabilia from the wedding, such as invites, marriage certificates and tiaras that would ordinarily be hidden in a cupboard and rarely looked at.” 

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