How to Ship Your Wedding Bouquet for Preservation (The Right Way)

If you’re planning to preserve your wedding bouquet, getting it safely from your hands to your preservation artist is everything. Fresh flowers are delicate, and proper packaging can make all the difference in how well they hold up during transit.

The good news? Shipping your bouquet is simple when you follow a few key steps. Here’s exactly how to do it—without damaging your blooms.

Step 1: Act Quickly

Timing is critical. Try to ship your bouquet within 1–3 days after your wedding.

  • The fresher your flowers are, the better they’ll preserve

  • Keep them in water until you’re ready to pack

  • Store them in a cool, shaded area (avoid heat and direct sunlight)

Step 2: Prepare the Stems (Moisture Matters)

Hydration is key—but you want to do it carefully.

  • Trim the stems slightly (about ½ inch)

  • Wrap the stems in a damp (not dripping) paper towel

  • Cover the wrapped stems with a plastic bag

  • Secure it with a rubber band

This keeps your flowers hydrated during shipping without soaking the blooms themselves.

Step 3: Protect the Blooms (No Plastic Wrap!)

Avoid wrapping the flower heads in plastic wrap. This can trap moisture and cause browning or mold.

Instead:

  • Gently wrap the bouquet in dry paper (like tissue paper or packing paper)

  • Make sure the blooms are supported but not crushed

  • Keep everything breathable to prevent excess moisture buildup

Step 4: Pack the Box Tightly

Movement is your biggest enemy during shipping. You want everything secure and snug.

  • Use a sturdy shipping box

  • Place a layer of packing peanuts or crumpled paper at the bottom

  • Set the bouquet inside and surround it with more paper or peanuts

  • Fill all empty space so the bouquet cannot shift or bounce around

If you shake the box gently and feel movement, add more packing material.

Step 5: Choose the Right Shipping Speed

Always select a fast shipping option to protect the quality of your flowers.

  • Choose overnight shipping or a guaranteed 2-day option

  • Ship early in the week (Monday–Wednesday) to avoid weekend delays

Slower shipping increases the risk of wilting or damage especially in the warmer months in Atlanta.

Step 6: Use a Reliable Carrier

We recommend shipping with:

  • USPS (United States Postal Service)

  • UPS (United Parcel Service)

Both offer dependable expedited options and tracking for peace of mind.

Step 7: Skip Signature Required Delivery

Do not require a signature on delivery.

This helps avoid delays if the recipient isn’t immediately available. The faster your bouquet gets inside, the better condition it will be in.

Final Checklist Before Shipping

✔ Stems wrapped in damp paper towel + plastic bag secured with rubber band
✔ Blooms wrapped in dry paper (no plastic wrap)
✔ Box packed tightly with paper or peanuts
✔ Overnight or guaranteed 2-day shipping selected
✔ No signature required on delivery

A Little Care Goes a Long Way

Shipping your bouquet might feel nerve-wracking, but with the right preparation, your flowers can arrive safely and beautifully intact and ready to be transformed into a lasting keepsake.

Taking these extra steps ensures your preservation artist receives your bouquet in the best possible condition, so your memories can be captured perfectly.

Ready to Preserve Your Bouquet?

Atlanta Flower Press specializes in turning your real wedding flowers into timeless framed artwork.

If you're planning to ship your bouquet to us, we’re here to guide you every step of the way—from your wedding day to the final piece.

Have questions or ready to book? Reach out to Atlanta Flower Press to reserve your spot and get personalized shipping guidance. We recommend booking in advance to ensure availability.

Email atlantaflowerpress@gmail.com for booking information and more info about the process

Follow along on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook @atlantaflowerpress

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What to Do With Your Wedding Flowers After the Big Day