Karen's Keepsakes
Frequently Asked Questions…
Q. What are some important considerations when choosing a flower preservationist?
It is important to ask questions, no matter who preserves your flowers. At Karen’s Keepsakes I strive to give you a quality picture that will last for years. Ask if your flowers are individually treated to prevent possible mix-up with someone else’s flowers. It’s important to me that you receive back the same flowers you delivered to me.
How soon after my special event do I need to get my flowers to Karen’s Keepsakes?
Soon as you can, your flowers will preserve better if we receive them within two or three days. If some of your flowers have deteriorated beyond being saved, I can substitute up to five flowers at a no cost to you. Please refer to my packing and shipping instructions to ensure we receive your flowers in as a fresh condition as possible, or click here..
Do you do anything special to make my picture last longer?
First, I press your flowers in an environmentally controlled area. Then I use acid-free, museum quality products when creating your picture and use UV (ultraviolet) protected glass to help prevent fading so you may have your picture for a long, long time. The oval pictures can have either UV protected glass or convex glass, the convex glass does not offer UV protection.
What is the advantage of having a pressed flower picture?
One added value of having a pressed flower picture is that it can easily be displayed, you don’t have to worry about bumping or moving it accidentally, and there is not bulky dome or shadow box taking up a lot of room. History is another value; there are pressed flowers at universities and in museums that are hundreds of years old.
How do I decide on which size picture I want?
I will work within your budget to give you a picture the uses as many flowers in each picture that can be tastefully done. Flowers are larger when pressed than when they were fresh, smaller pictures will require fewer flowers than larger pictures. My best selling picture is the 16X20 and this size includes most of an average size bouquet. All picture sizes are beautiful and it really depends on how much you want to spend and how many of your flowers you want to include. Each picture is an individual creation and will vary due to the uniqueness of the flowers.
Will the color of my flowers change?
The colors will change some at first, white and ivory flowers will become a creamy color, reds will dry to a beautiful burgundy. Other colors such as light pink or peach may become lighter or creamy in color but most colors will darken a slightly. Variations of color and form will differ from picture to picture because of the uniqueness of the flowers. Some things will affect the quality of the picture including handling, freshness, and exposure to heat and sun.
How long will the process take before I receive my picture?
Usually 4-6 weeks, depending on the frame you select.
Do I need to select a frame and background and mat colors before my wedding or special event?
No, you don’t need to decide right away. You have time while the flowers are being pressed, so you won’t be rushed to decide how you want your picture to look. I do suggest that you select the colors that enhance the colors of your dried flowers instead of a certain décor. Your tastes and décor will change over the years but your pressed flower keepsake will be around for a long time. Some slight differences of frame finishes, mat and background colors due to manufacturing variations and supplies. I would be happy to have a phone consultation with you to help you in your selections.
Do you accept last minute orders?
Yes, I try to accept all requests. All you need to do is send us your flowers along with one-half deposit. I accept checks, money orders, Visa, Mastercard, Discover and American Express.
How do I reserve a place in your flower press?
A 50% deposit when you place your order will reserve your press space.If your wedding has already taken place or we receive an unexpected delivery of your flowers and we have room in our presses, a 50% deposit will still be required.If unexpected flowers or post wedding flowers are to old to be processed, we will contact you concerning flower replacement cost. We make every effort to keep the replacement flower cost as low as possible.We accept all major credit cards and personal checks or money orders. The balance is due upon completion of your picture.Once we have received your flowers and started the pressing process your deposit is not refundable and your flowers will not be returned, should you change your mind.Can I make payments on my picture?Yes, I can work with you to create a picture that is within your budget. I can also arrange a payment plan with you so you may have the keepsake of your dreams with out having to make two payments. There is a non-refundable setup fee of $20, and then four to six payments to pay off the balance. All pictures must be paid in full before delivery can be made. Any amount over the normal 50% deposit will be refunded to you should you not pay off your account within the agreed time frame. Your flowers will not be returned.How do I take care of my picture?
Your keepsake is sensitive to sunlight or strong light in a room. I suggest you treat this the same as you would a watercolor and place it where it will be protected from these elements.
