How To Store Boutonniere

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Introduction

A boutonniere is a small floral arrangement traditionally worn on the lapel of a suit or tuxedo for formal occasions. Whether you are attending a wedding, prom, or any other special event, wearing a boutonniere adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to your attire. However, once the event is over, you may be wondering how to store your boutonniere to ensure it stays fresh and vibrant.

Properly handling and storing your boutonniere is essential to maintain its beauty and prolong its lifespan. By following a few simple steps, you can keep your boutonniere looking fresh for several days, allowing you to enjoy its beauty long after the event has ended.

In this article, we will guide you through the process of properly storing your boutonniere. We will discuss how to handle the boutonniere, select the right storage container, prepare the container, choose the ideal environment, wrap the boutonniere, store it, and finally, monitor and maintain its freshness.

So, if you want to preserve the beauty of your boutonniere and cherish it as a beautiful keepsake, let’s dive into the details of how to store your boutonniere properly.

Proper Handling

When it comes to preserving the freshness and beauty of your boutonniere, proper handling is crucial. The delicate nature of flowers requires gentle care to prevent any damage or wilting. Here are some essential tips for handling your boutonniere:

• Gently hold the boutonniere by the stem or base, avoiding any direct contact with the flowers or foliage. Touching the petals can leave behind oils or dirt, which can contribute to their deterioration.
• Avoid squeezing or tightly gripping the boutonniere, as this can crush the delicate flowers and damage their appearance.
• If you need to adjust the position of the boutonniere, do so carefully to avoid bending or breaking the stems.
• Keep in mind that the boutonniere is a fragile accessory, so handle it with care and avoid any rough movements or impacts that may cause damage.

By handling your boutonniere properly, you can minimize the risk of damaging the flowers and maintain their freshness and beauty for a longer period of time.

Selecting the Right Storage Container

Choosing the right storage container plays a critical role in preserving the freshness and integrity of your boutonniere. Here are some factors to consider when selecting a suitable container:

1. Size: The container should be spacious enough to accommodate the boutonniere without crushing or bending the flowers. Ideally, it should have enough space to allow air circulation around the flowers.

2. Material: Opt for a container made of a non-reactive material, such as glass or plastic. Avoid containers made of metal or materials that can transfer odors or moisture to the boutonniere.

3. Lid or Cover: A container with a lid or cover will help maintain a stable and controlled environment, preventing the boutonniere from being exposed to excessive humidity or drying out.

4. Transparency: A transparent container allows you to monitor the condition of the boutonniere without opening the lid, minimizing the disturbance to the flowers.

5. Cleanliness: Ensure that the storage container is clean and free of any dirt, debris, or residue that could contaminate the boutonniere. Wash the container with mild soap and water, and let it air dry before use.

Remember, the container you choose should provide a protective and suitable environment for your boutonniere, ensuring it stays fresh and vibrant for as long as possible.

Preparing the Container

Preparing the storage container before placing your boutonniere inside is an important step in ensuring its longevity and freshness. Follow these steps to properly prepare the container:

1. Add Water: If your boutonniere contains fresh flowers, fill the container with a small amount of water. Make sure not to add too much water, as it may cause the flowers to become oversaturated or wilted.

2. Flower Food: Consider adding a packet of flower food to the water in the container. Flower food contains nutrients and compounds that can help extend the life of cut flowers, keeping them vibrant for a longer period of time.

3. Dissolving the Flower Food: Follow the instructions on the flower food packet to dissolve it properly in the water. Typically, you will need to stir the mixture until the powder is completely dissolved.

4. Gentle Stirring: Gently stir the water and flower food mixture to ensure the nutrients are evenly distributed. This will help provide adequate nourishment to the flowers and help them stay fresh for a longer duration.

5. Let it Sit: Allow the water and flower food mixture to sit for a few minutes before placing the boutonniere inside. This will give the flower food a chance to fully dissolve and create an optimal environment for the flowers.

By properly preparing the container and providing the necessary nourishment for the flowers, you are setting the stage for preserving the beauty and freshness of your boutonniere.

Choosing the Ideal Environment

The environment in which you store your boutonniere plays a vital role in maintaining its freshness and prolonging its lifespan. Here are some factors to consider when selecting the ideal environment:

1. Temperature: Choose a cool location with a temperature between 34 to 40 degrees Fahrenheit (1 to 4 degrees Celsius). Avoid storing the boutonniere in extreme temperatures, as excessive heat or cold can cause the flowers to wilt or deteriorate quickly.

2. Avoid Direct Sunlight: Keep the boutonniere away from direct sunlight or any other sources of intense heat, as this can cause the flowers to fade and wilt prematurely.

3. Humidity: Maintain a moderate level of humidity in the storage area. High humidity can lead to mold or bacterial growth, while low humidity can cause the flowers to dry out. Aim for a humidity level of around 40 to 50%.

4. Air Circulation: Ensure that there is adequate air circulation around the boutonniere. Good airflow helps prevent the buildup of humidity and allows the flowers to breathe, keeping them fresh and vibrant.

5. Avoid Ethylene Exposure: Ethylene gas is produced by fruits, plants, and certain materials, and it can accelerate the aging process of flowers. Keep your boutonniere away from ethylene-producing items, such as ripening fruits, to prevent premature wilting.

By choosing the right environment for your boutonniere, you can create optimal conditions for maintaining its beauty and freshness for a longer period of time.

Store your boutonniere in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. Place it in a plastic bag with a damp paper towel to maintain moisture. Avoid direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.

Wrapping the Boutonniere

Properly wrapping your boutonniere can provide an additional layer of protection and help maintain its shape and appearance. Follow these steps to wrap your boutonniere:

1. Floral Tape: Start by using floral tape to secure the stems of the boutonniere together. Floral tape is flexible and self-adhesive, making it ideal for holding the stems in place without damaging the flowers.

2. Wrap the Stems: Begin wrapping the floral tape tightly around the stems, starting from the base and working your way down towards the end. Wrap the tape several times to ensure a secure hold.

3. Trim Excess Stems: If the stems of your boutonniere are longer than desired, you can use a pair of sharp scissors or floral shears to trim them to the desired length. Make a clean, angled cut to prevent damage to the stem.

4. Ribbon or Twine: After wrapping the stems with floral tape, you can further embellish the boutonniere by adding a decorative ribbon or twine. Wrap the ribbon or twine around the taped stems, securing it with a knot or a small bow.

5. Leave Space for the Flower: Make sure to leave a portion of the stem exposed, allowing the flower to breathe and preventing it from being completely covered by the wrapping material.

By wrapping your boutonniere properly, you are providing support and protection to the delicate flowers, ensuring they stay intact and retain their elegance throughout the storage process.

Storing the Boutonniere

Once you have prepared and wrapped your boutonniere, it’s time to store it properly to ensure its longevity and freshness. Follow these steps to store your boutonniere:

1. Place in a Container: Carefully place the wrapped boutonniere inside the previously prepared storage container. Make sure the flowers are positioned upright, and the stems are resting at the bottom of the container.

2. Lid or Cover: If the storage container comes with a lid or cover, securely place it on top. This will help maintain a stable and controlled environment, protecting the boutonniere from dust, humidity, and other external elements.

3. Refrigeration: If possible, store the boutonniere in the refrigerator. The cool temperature of the refrigerator will help slow down the aging process of the flowers and extend their freshness. However, ensure that the boutonniere is not in direct contact with any fruits or vegetables, as their ethylene gases can accelerate the wilting of the flowers.

4. Avoid Freezing: While refrigeration is recommended, it is important to note that freezing the boutonniere can cause damage to the flowers, resulting in discoloration and loss of texture. So, refrain from freezing the boutonniere.

5. Check for Airflow: Make sure there is sufficient airflow within the storage container. If using a lidded container, ensure there are small ventilation holes or cracks to allow air circulation. Good airflow helps prevent the buildup of moisture and mold, keeping the boutonniere fresh.

Remember to check on the boutonniere occasionally to ensure it is maintaining its freshness and to make any necessary adjustments if needed.

Monitoring and Maintenance

Proper monitoring and maintenance are essential to keep your boutonniere fresh and vibrant throughout its storage period. Here are some important steps to follow:

1. Regular Inspections: Check on your boutonniere every day or every other day to ensure its condition. Look for any signs of wilting, discoloration, or damaged petals. If you notice any issues, take immediate action to address them.

2. Water Refreshment: If your boutonniere is stored with water in the container, check the water level regularly. If it appears low or looks dirty, replace it with fresh water. This will provide continuous hydration to the flowers, helping them stay fresh for a longer time.

3. Remove Faded Flowers: As some flowers naturally age and fade faster than others, remove any faded or wilted flowers from the boutonniere. This will prevent them from contaminating the other flowers and ensure the overall appearance of the arrangement is preserved.

4. Adjust Wrappings: Over time, the wrapping around the boutonniere may loosen or become disheveled. Take a moment to adjust the tape, ribbon, or twine, ensuring it remains secure and aesthetically pleasing.

5. Proper Handling: When accessing or inspecting the boutonniere, handle it with care. Avoid touching or squeezing the flowers directly, and be gentle when moving or adjusting the arrangement to prevent any damage.

By monitoring your boutonniere and providing the necessary maintenance, you can extend its lifespan and keep it looking fresh and beautiful for as long as possible.

Conclusion

Properly storing your boutonniere is essential to ensure its longevity and maintain its fresh and vibrant appearance. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can preserve the beauty of your boutonniere and enjoy it as a cherished keepsake long after the special event has ended.

From proper handling to selecting the right storage container, preparing the container, choosing the ideal environment, wrapping the boutonniere, storing it, and monitoring and maintaining its freshness, each step is crucial in maintaining the boutonniere’s beauty and ensuring its longevity.

Remember, handle your boutonniere with care to prevent any damage, select a suitable storage container and prepare it properly, choose a cool and controlled environment, and wrap the boutonniere securely. Store it in the refrigerator if possible, regularly inspect and maintain the arrangement, and make any necessary adjustments.

By following these guidelines, you can extend the lifespan of your boutonniere and keep it looking fresh and stunning for as long as possible. Whether it’s a wedding, prom, or any other special occasion, your boutonniere is a symbol of elegance and style, and by preserving it, you can hold onto those cherished memories for years to come.

So, take the time to store your boutonniere properly, and enjoy the beauty and significance it brings to your special moments.