Keep bridal and bridesmaid bouquets in a cool room away from direct sunlight, heaters, strong air conditioning, and open windows. Leave the stems in their water source until shortly before use.

Remove the bouquet from water, gently dry the stems and ribbon, and keep it upright. Avoid placing it on fabric, furniture, or warm surfaces.

Limit long periods in direct sun or wind. Between locations, return the bouquet to a cool vehicle or shaded interior whenever possible.

Keep personal flowers in their packaging in the coolest available space until needed. Refrigeration is helpful when available, but avoid freezing temperatures and direct contact with food or moisture.

Handle flowers by the wrapped stem or base rather than the petals. Pin boutonnieres securely through the lapel fabric and remove them before vigorous activity or prolonged heat exposure.

Place bouquet stems in clean water as soon as possible. For preservation, contact a professional preservation artist promptly, since many methods work best when flowers are still fresh.

Different flowers have different lifespans. Calla lilies, orchids, roses, and delicate garden flowers respond differently to heat, handling, and time out of water.