Age is Just a Number

Bob and I just returned from Palm Springs, where I had the opportunity of studying the art of arranging preserved flowers with licensed instructor Miko Kishimizu <www.preservesbeauty.com/>. I spent two days of intense study learning techniques specific to the handling and display of these unique arrangements. The Japanese, especially, continue to refine the process of production and the results are beautiful. Their manufacture has evolved from the days when blossoms were exposed to the preservatives by just hand dipping them to current practices, where blossoms are infused with preservatives using ultrasonic waves produced by machines vibrating at a rate of 200,000 cycles per second. In my brief time with Miko, I barely scratched the surface of the intricate varieties of techniques needed to arrange preserved flowers for their maximum effect, but I did learn the basics of creating corsages, centerpieces and bouquets.

This large arrangement of roses was made by
Miko 5 years ago. She preserved the blossoms herself
by hand dipping them in various preservatives. They are still beautiful
and grace their surroundings. Today, she imports her roses from
Japan for their superior quality.

Preserved flowers are more expensive than fresh, but they last so much longer--literally, for years , without deterioration--that they are a much better value than fresh flowers in homes and commercial settings. They are also the ideal choice for wedding bouquets. Brides who want their bouquet preserved must send them to a company providing that service. The flowers will not arrive there in pristine condition and the procedures used with assembled bouquets do not produce optimal results. Should the bride have the bouquet duplicated for preservation, she also duplicates her costs. It is better to begin with preserved flowers. No one attending the ceremony will notice a difference and that very bouquet will last for years in its original condition.

This is a wedding bouquet of yellow calla lilies and white hydrangeas
with assorted greens and ribbons. All organic elements
are preserved. It is a lovely composition and will
retain its good looks for many years to come.

Here is an Ikebana style arrangement
with dendrobium orchids.

Miko pointed out another advantage to preserved flowers. They are hypoallergenic, which makes them ideal gifts to hospitalized friends.

This typical western style arrangement
looks like it has come right from the
garden, but is actually 6 months old. There is no
water in the vase.

These beautiful decorative elements are popular throughout the world, but haven't caught on yet in the United States. Their cost benefits make them ideal for commercial settings and their beauty makes them enduring personal gifts. You must see them to appreciate their amazing qualities. I would be pleased to introduce you to this development in floral decoration.
All arrangements were made by Miko.

This photo was made with a point and shoot camera
and is not a sharp image. It was shot in the lobby of the Ritz-Carlton hotel in Osaka Japan. The flowers are all preserved blossoms and I've included this image to illustrate
their popularity abroad.