Hayley Cruz Pressed Flowers — Frequently Asked Questions

A warm, handcrafted keepsake starts with a few simple steps. Browse the questions below, and if you don’t see what you’re looking for, you’re always welcome to get in touch.

Sending Your Flowers

How do I send my flowers to you?

After you place your order, you’ll receive a simple step-by-step guide by email. It includes my studio address, when to ship, and how to package your bouquet so it arrives fresh and safe. You can drop your flowers off in person (by appointment) or ship them using a tracked service.

When should I send my bouquet?

For the best results, flowers should reach me within 2–3 days of your event. If you’re local, you can bring them the next day. If you’re shipping from farther away, I recommend booking your spot ahead of time and sending them out the first business day after your event.

How should I package my flowers for shipping?

Keep your bouquet in water until you’re ready to pack. Gently wrap the stems in damp paper towel, cover with a plastic bag, and nestle the flowers in a snug box with soft packing material so they can’t slide around. Avoid ice packs and sealed plastic containers, which can cause damage during transit. Full packing instructions are included with your booking confirmation.

Timelines & Process

How long does the preservation process take?

Pressed flower preservation is slow and careful by design. Most pieces take about 8–12 weeks from the time your flowers arrive at my studio. This allows time for pressing, design planning, hand-placing each bloom, framing, and final quality checks. During busy seasons, timelines may extend slightly, but I’ll always keep you updated.

Can you rush my order?

I occasionally offer a limited number of rush spots. If you have a special date in mind (such as an anniversary or memorial), please mention it when you inquire. If I can accommodate a rush, I’ll share the adjusted timeline and any additional fee before you confirm.

Suitable Flowers & Occasions

What types of flowers work best for pressing?

Most flowers can be pressed beautifully, especially delicate blooms like roses, ranunculus, lisianthus, delphinium, sweet peas, mums, daisies, and greenery. Very thick or waxy flowers may be trimmed or pressed in layers to keep your piece light and archival. If your bouquet includes something unusual, I’ll work with it as thoughtfully as possible.

Which occasions are suitable for preservation?

I preserve flowers from weddings, elopements, engagements, bridal showers, baby showers, birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, and more. Memorial and funeral flowers are also very meaningful to preserve, and I handle these pieces with extra care and sensitivity. If your flowers mark an important moment in your life, they’re perfect for pressing.

Can you work with older or already-dried flowers?

Fresh flowers always give the best results, but I’m sometimes able to work with flowers that are partially dried or a few weeks old. Naturally air-dried bouquets can be more fragile and may press differently. Feel free to send a photo and I’ll let you know what’s realistic before you ship anything.

Can you work with artificial, silk, or wood flowers?

Yes, yes, and YES! Artificial, silk, and wood flowers are all welcome — bring them on.

Pricing, Booking & Availability

How much does pressed flower preservation cost?

Pricing depends on the size of your frame and the complexity of your bouquet. Smaller pieces begin at a lower investment, while larger statement pieces are priced higher to reflect the time and materials involved. For current pricing, please visit the Pricing or Booking page — everything is listed clearly so you can choose what feels right for you.

How do I reserve my date?

Because each piece is made by hand, I take a limited number of bouquets each month. You can reserve your spot by filling out the online booking form and paying a non-refundable retainer. Once your date is secured, I’ll send your shipping and packing guide so you’re ready when your event arrives.

Do you offer payment plans?

Yes. Many clients choose to split their investment into two or three payments. If you’d like to arrange a payment plan, just mention it when you reach out and we’ll set up a schedule that feels comfortable for you.

Shipping, Packaging & Returns

Do you ship finished pieces?

Yes, I ship finished frames within the country using tracked, insured services. Your artwork is carefully wrapped, cushioned, and boxed to protect both the glass and the delicate petals. Shipping costs vary depending on size and destination and will be clearly shown when you book.

How are finished frames packaged?

Each frame is wrapped in protective materials, cushioned with eco-conscious packing, and boxed securely to minimize movement. I include a care card with tips for displaying and looking after your piece. Unboxing gently and avoiding sharp tools near the surface will help keep everything pristine.

What is your policy if something arrives damaged?

If your frame arrives damaged, please photograph the box and the piece from several angles and contact me within 48 hours. I’ll work with you to file any necessary claims and discuss next steps. Because each piece is made from your original flowers, exact replacements aren’t always possible, but I’ll do everything I can to make things right.

Caring for Your Pressed Flower Art

How should I display my finished piece?

To keep your flowers looking their best, hang your frame in a place with stable temperature and low humidity, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. A softly lit wall or hallway is ideal. Avoid hanging directly above radiators, fireplaces, or in bathrooms.

Will the colors of my flowers change over time?

Pressed flowers are a natural material, so gentle shifts in color are normal over many years. I use careful drying methods and UV-protective glazing to slow this process as much as possible. Think of your piece as a living keepsake — it may soften slightly with time, but it will remain a beautiful reminder of your day.

How do I clean and care for the frame?

You can dust the frame with a soft, dry cloth. For the glass, use a gentle glass cleaner sprayed onto a cloth (never directly onto the frame) and wipe carefully. Avoid getting moisture near the edges or backing, and don’t open the frame, as this can expose the flowers to humidity and dust.

Still have questions?

If you’re dreaming up a special keepsake and aren’t sure where to start, I’d love to hear from you. Reach out via the contact form or email, and we’ll walk through your ideas together.