(West) Coast of Roses — A Wine Bottle’s (Re)purpose from Late Spring to Early Autumn

In case you haven’t noticed, I’m currently (and perpetually) hyperfixated on flowers.

While this isn’t your usual autumn floral arrangement, I like to think the things we cherish most don’t have to end when summer fades or the bottle runs empty.

⁣With all that in mind, and in a season of gratitude, it only seems natural to drop a wine bottle (on the blog, not the floor) — think repurpose, rather than on purpose (or reconstructing over de(con)structing). And to really keep things intact, I’ll also be sharing some flower preservation tips (for both wet and dried florals).

Without further ado, let’s make these blooms last . . .

Materials:

Directions:

First, find an empty wine bottle and give it a thorough wash. If you don’t have an empty one, prepare to pour yourself a glass (or three) and/or cook with what’s left (optional).  I used a Cote des Roses rosé bottle, which I find to be as exquisite as the wine in once contained.  However, any wine bottle of your choosing will do.

Add lemon juice and sugar to the bottle.  This helps feed the flowers so they last longer.

Fill bottle 3/4 of the way with lukewarm water.

Select flowers of choice and colour match to your preference. I selected mine from a bouquet that was thoughtfully gifted to me by my good friend (who also happens to be a floral expert).

Cut off ends of stems and pick off any unnecessary leaves.  Secure with twine.

Arrange flowers to desired look.  Place on a well-lit surface and change water every second day.

To further preserve your florals, I highly recommend drying them.  To do this, remove your current bouquet from the bottle before the flowers start withering. Set the bouquet aside.

Pour out any leftover water from the bottle and rinse well. Allow the bottle to properly air dry by turning upside down in a well ventilated area until no moisture remains inside.

While bottle is drying, pick off any dying leaves and/or petals from your bouquet.

(Re)select desired florals to form into new a bouquet. Then cut some twine and wrap it around the stems. Secure with a knot.

Hang bouquet upside down in a dry place for at least 2 weeks. In the meantime, this will make for some lovely temporary wall decor.

Once fully dried, flip bouquet right-side up and add to your empty bottle. Display on its own or with decor of choice. I chose to feature mine next to an “ocean flower” my youngest daughter painted for me earlier this year (shown below).

And just like that, you have a wine bottle and floral bouquet repurposed two ways for any given season.

How are you celebrating Thanksgiving this year and what are you thankful for? Let me know in the comments below (or on my latest IG post) @haveyour.c.a.k.e

Xoxo