Four people stand smiling under a large floral arch; one in a wedding dress, one in a tuxedo, and two in formal attire.

The Destination Bride’s Secret to Flower Preservation

October 7, 2025
Words by Michelle Besu
Photos courtesy of various

Don’t let the destination stop your dreams of preserving your bouquet. Wild Coast Flower Preservation has helped turn 18,000 bouquets into lifelong keepsakes, and hundreds of those couples tied the knot abroad – from Tuscany to Tulum, so believe us—when it comes to saving your (another word for destination/ unique) wedding flowers, we get the struggle! As more couples choose dreamy destination weddings, the heartbreak of leaving that gorgeous bouquet behind is real, especially when the average bride spends around $2,700 on flowers. Whether you’re tying the knot on a Greek isle or a Costa Rican beach, wouldn’t it be wonderful if your bouquet could journey back home with you?

The Travel Challenge for Paradise Brides

Picture this: You’ve planned every themed cocktail, every rose petal aisle runner, and every “I do” moment. Now it’s day-after bliss, the bouquet is glowing, but how do those fresh wedding flowers survive the flight, customs, and the mad dash through airport security? Fresh flowers wilt quickly, and international shipping is both unreliable and expensive.

“I was devastated thinking I’d have to leave my bouquet behind in Santorini,” shares Sarah M., who recently pressed her roses before a sunset flight home.

A person arranges pressed flowers and leaves on white paper, with several sheets displaying different floral patterns on a table.

The Game-Changer: The Travel Flower Press Kit

Enter the Travel Flower Press Kit—a lightweight, pro-grade rental package designed just for destination brides. This fun DIY solution includes:

  • A large, pro-quality 9″x12″ press with super absorbent pads.
  • A custom sealing bag to keep flowers dry and safe all the way home.
  • Foolproof instructions (and a 6-minute “no stress” video)—so your maid of honor or planner can help, no experience needed.

You simply fit the press in your carry-on or luggage, add your precious bouquet, and let the absorbent pads do their magic while you jet home. Bonus tip: Swapping out the pads before shipping means bouquets stay fresh for up to two days in transit—even longer with the extra set!

Watch our quick step-by-step tutorial here: https://youtu.be/ml64X7Ccow0 

A person packing a suitcase, placing a folder labeled "Wild Coast Flower Preservation" and a teal floral pouch inside.

Your Destination Preservation Guide

  • Before Departure: Order your kit 4–6 weeks ahead. It ships to you, ready to pack in your suitcase – or someone else’s!
  • Wedding Day: Enjoy every moment! Nominate a bridesmaid to save your bouquet after the party winds down.
  • One Day Before Travel: Place your blooms in the press, following the step-by-step guide. Consolidated, sealed and secure, it’s ready for a smooth journey.
  • Back Home in the US: Send your pressed flowers to Wild Coast—overnight shipping labels are available at a discount! Wild Coast completes the preservation, creating everything from resin serving trays, pressed flower wall décor or other keepsakes.

Assorted pink, peach, and white flowers and green leaves are arranged in a flat lay pattern on a white background.Assorted resin coasters and ornaments with preserved flowers and foliage arranged on a white marble surface.

Real Brides, Real Memories

Kaitlyn B. relied on the kit in Italy: “My wedding planner helped me press and pack my bouquet before flying home. Five months later, my family was wowed by a wall photo frame made with flowers from Lake Como.

Gabrielle got married in Mexico, and pressed her roses before travel. We confirmed that someone with “no artistic talent” can use this system.  She also brought home a bridesmaid bouquet or two in her checked bag (shhh).  

When Plans Change—No Worries

Pro-tip from Michelle Besu, owner of Wild Coast: In the haste of travel, always leave room for error.  Some flowers may wilt if pressing is delayed or incur mold if the drying pads get too wet – but don’t sweat it.  With bouquet replacement services and a dried flower library, we can recreate your wedding day look.  If plans change, just send a photo and your mementos (like charms or invitations), and we’ll make it right.   

Woman with long curly hair in a pink top sits on a blue bench, holding a decorative wooden box next to a blue suitcase. Floral artwork hangs on the wall behind her.

Travel Tips for Flower-Loving Couples

  • Customs inspectors treat pressed flowers like dried botanicals. Only one bride has ever been asked to toss her bouquet—and that was due to a bug!
  • The kit is lighter than most souvenirs—think laptop-size space in your suitcase.
  • The sealed environment shields your blooms from humidity or cold, no matter your destination.

Make Your Paradise Bouquet Last Forever

Your destination wedding represents months of planning and a lifetime of love! Don’t let oceans or borders keep you from preserving those beautiful, sentimental flowers. Wild Coast’s Travel Flower Press Kits help couples worldwide bring their bouquets home for a one-of-a-kind keepsake that tells their love story.

Ready to ensure your destination bouquet makes it home? Reserve your kit from Wild Coast Flower Preservation and turn your paradise celebration into everlasting art.

For more info, real bride stories, and gorgeous photos, visit Wild Coast Flower Preservation.

Featured image by Sylvia Guardia Photography

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