Fresh flowers capture fleeting moments of beauty, but what if those blooms could last forever? In this inspiring conversation, preservation artist Andrea Cole shares how she transforms bouquets—from weddings to memorials—into timeless works of art. Whether you’re a bride, florist, or flower farmer, this episode of The Flower Files reveals the artistry, science, and sentiment behind flower preservation.
How Andrea’s Preservation Journey Began
Andrea’s path to preservation started with a simple but meaningful bouquet from her now-husband in 2016. Inspired by her discovery of pressed flowers tucked away in an old library book, she began experimenting with preserving petals. Through trial, error, and passion, Andrea grew her craft into a thriving business now known for its breathtaking resin and pressed-flower art.
The Science and Art of Preserving Blooms
Flower preservation isn’t one-size-fits-all. Different flowers demand different techniques, from silica gel and microwave pressing to traditional book pressing and resin casting. Andrea explains how thickness, moisture, and even whether a flower has been sprayed with chemicals affect how it preserves. Hydrangeas, with their thin petals, are perfect for beginners, while tricky blooms like dahlias often challenge even seasoned professionals.
From Fresh Flowers to Forever Keepsakes
Turning a bouquet into art isn’t quick—Andrea’s process takes two to three months. Bouquets are carefully deconstructed, preserved, color-restored, and then arranged into stunning resin or press pieces. Her team’s meticulous methods, from airbrushing faded petals to cataloging thousands of bouquets, ensure every client receives a piece that honors their original flowers.
Why Preservation Matters
As Liza notes, weddings can feel like Cinderella’s story—months of planning vanish in hours. The bouquet, however, holds meaning that lingers: family traditions, memories of loved ones, or the flowers you carried down the aisle. Preservation turns those fleeting blooms into art that can be admired for generations. Beyond weddings, Andrea also creates pieces from memorial flowers, anniversaries, and even homegrown garden blooms.
Advice for Aspiring Preservation Artists
Andrea encourages beginners to dive in—experiment with hydrangeas, try pressing with books, and don’t be afraid of trial and error. But when it comes to once-in-a-lifetime flowers like weddings or memorials, she stresses the importance of hiring a professional who understands the nuances of preservation.
Favorite Flowers and Creative Possibilities
While Andrea adores anemones, spray roses remain her favorite to preserve for their texture and consistency. Her studio offers over 200 product options, from large-scale pressed art to gem-shaped resin keepsakes. Each piece is customizable, ensuring no two preserved arrangements are alike.
