Flower preservation guide · 5 min read
Some flowers mean more than others. Maybe it's your wedding bouquet, the roses from a proposal, or one flower from a day you never want to forget.
Fresh flowers don't last forever. But with flower preservation, you can keep them for years. Two of the most loved ways to do this are a shadow box frame and resin.
We get asked about these two all the time, so we put together this simple guide. Both are beautiful. They just look, feel and age in different ways. Let's help you find the one that feels right for you.
Pick this if you love a classic look for your wall or shelf, and you like the idea of opening it again one day.
Pick this if you love a modern, glossy look and want something strong that needs almost no care.
Meet the two options
Shadow box frame
A shadow box is a deep frame with acrylic window at the front. Your dried flowers are arranged inside it in soft layers. Because the frame has depth, the flowers keep some of their shape. It feels like a small piece of art. You can also add little keepsakes, like your invitation, a ribbon from the bouquet, or a special date. See our shadow box frames.
Resin
For resin, we dry your flowers first. Then we set them in clear resin, which hardens into a solid piece that looks like glass. Your flowers look like they are floating inside. Resin can be made in many shapes and sizes, from blocks to small keepsakes. See our resin preservation.
How they compare
Here are the seven things most people think about when choosing.
| Feature | Shadow Box Frame | Resin |
|---|---|---|
| Display | Flowers arranged in a deep frame | Flowers sealed in clear resin |
| Making it yours | You choose the layout and design | Many shapes, sizes and designs |
| Opening it | Can be opened again to rearrange | Fully sealed |
| Look | Classic and elegant, for walls or shelves | Modern, glossy and sleek |
| Strength | Protected, but handle with care | Very durable and protected |
| Care | A little dusting now and then | Needs almost no care |
| Over time | Flowers may age naturally | Flowers sealed for lasting beauty |
Making it yours
Your design. With a shadow box, you choose how the flowers are placed, the background and the frame. You can add keepsakes too. With resin, you choose the shape and size. You can have one big piece or a few small ones from the same bouquet.
Can you open it? A shadow box can be opened again, so you can move things around later. Resin is fully sealed. Once it's set, it stays that way. That seal is what keeps your flowers so safe.
Look and strength
The look. A shadow box feels classic and elegant, like art on your wall or shelf. Resin feels modern, glossy and sleek. Light shines through it in a really lovely way.
How strong is it? Resin is very durable because your flowers are fully sealed inside. A shadow box keeps your flowers safe behind glass. But the dried flowers inside are delicate, so it's best to handle it gently.
There's no wrong choice. The best one is the one that fits your memory and your home.
Care over time
Looking after it. A shadow box just needs a little dusting now and then. Resin needs almost no care. A quick wipe with a soft, dry cloth is enough.
Over the years. Dried flowers in a frame may slowly soften in colour. Many people love this, as it gives the piece a gentle, vintage feel. In resin, your flowers are sealed away from air and touch, so they stay better protected.
Which one are you?
Read both lists and see which one sounds more like you.
- You love a classic, elegant look
- You want something for your wall or shelf
- You'd like to add keepsakes, like your invitation
- You like the idea of changing it later
Sounds like you? Go for a shadow box frame.
- You love a modern, glossy finish
- You want something very durable
- You want easy care
- You love a keepsake you can hold
Sounds like you? Resin is your match.
Care tips for the UAE
All preserved flowers last longer away from strong sun and heat. Here in the UAE, where you place your piece really matters.
Sunlight can fade the colours over time. Try to keep it away from sunny windows.
Don't place it near heat, or where the AC blows right onto it.
Pick a spot away from damp air. A bathroom or kitchen is not the best place.
Dust a frame lightly. Wipe resin with a soft, dry cloth. No strong cleaners.
Timing matters. Flowers give the best results when they are still fresh. If you want to keep your wedding bouquet, plan it before the big day. That way, your flowers can come to us soon after. You can read more in our wedding bouquet preservation guide.
Still not sure which one to choose?
Tell us about your flowers and your special day. We'd love to help you find the right keepsake.
Your questions, answered
Is resin or a shadow box better for a wedding bouquet?
Both are lovely choices. A shadow box can show more of your bouquet, and you can add keepsakes like your invitation or ribbon. Resin is great if you want something durable and modern, or a few small pieces from one bouquet.
Can I open a shadow box frame later?
Yes, you can. A shadow box can be opened again to move the flowers or add something new. Resin is fully sealed, so it can't be changed once it's made.
Which one lasts longer?
Resin is more durable because your flowers are fully sealed inside. A shadow box keeps your flowers safe behind glass, but they may slowly age over the years.
How do I look after preserved flowers?
Keep them away from direct sun, heat and damp air. Dust a shadow box now and then. Wipe resin with a soft, dry cloth.
When should I bring my flowers in?
As soon as you can after your special day, while the flowers are still fresh. Fresher flowers give the best results.