Repurposing

Giving Flowers, Foliage & Greenery a Second Life

The Beauty of Repurposing

Let’s talk about repurposing. Whether it’s called upcycling, reimagining, or simply getting creative, it all means the same thing—taking something you already have and giving it new life or purpose.

I hear the word repurpose often from my couples, especially those hoping to stretch their floral budget. And sometimes? It works beautifully. A floral arch that becomes a head table backdrop, aisle flowers that are transformed into centerpieces—it’s a win-win when the logistics and timing allow it.

But repurposing doesn ’t have to stop at the wedding. Take a bouquet you received for an anniversary or special moment. After a few days, some blooms may still look stunning while others start to fade. It’ s easy to “ edit” your arrangement by removing the tired blooms, refreshing the water, and fluffing things up with a little zhuzh. Just like that —you ’ ve got something fresh and new to enjoy for a bit longer.

And when the bouquet has lived its fresh life? Dry it! Those same flowers can be used again in a completely different way. Think: keepsake ornaments, pressed floral art, or a handmade wreath.

Recently, I found myself with an abundance of dried blooms and foliage in the studio—little bits that might’ve otherwise been tossed. I decided to create a simple statement wreath with a neutral palette to hang in my workspace. Everything in it was dried by me and cost absolutely nothing. And the result? Just what I had envisioned. Beautiful, natural, and now part of my everyday environment.

The moral of the story? Look around. Get creative. The flowers and foliage gifted to us by nature don’t have to be fleeting—they can live on in new, unexpected ways. 

Repurposing, foraging, and finding creative ways to extend the life of flowers is one of the most beautiful (and sustainable) ways to enjoy nature’s gifts. Whether you're drying a special bouquet, snipping greenery from your yard, or turning leftover blooms into something new, you're honoring beauty that already exists—and giving it the chance to shine again. With a little imagination and care, the life of a flower doesn’t have to end after one moment. It can be enjoyed again and again in thoughtful, lasting ways.

Have you found your own creative way to repurpose flowers? I’d love to hear! Share your ideas with me and participate in our informal poll below—I’m always inspired by the beauty others see in second chances.

Have you ever repurposed your flowers, foliage or greenery?

• YES!
• NO, but I will now!
• NO, not for me