That said, innovation is at the heart of what we do. When a vision calls for it, we're not afraid to combine preserved botanicals with silk, or bring together unusual elements - feathers, moss, multimedia touches - to achieve an effect that preserved flowers alone couldn't create. We make thoughtful, sometimes last-minute decisions in the studio to ensure every piece matches the vision perfectly, not just the formula.
FAQ
What are preserved botanicals - and how are they different from artificial or fresh flowers? Every arrangement at House of Harstad begins as a real, living bloom. We use flowers that are captured at their most beautiful moment and transform it into something that lasts for years, not days. This is not silk. This is not plastic. It's nature, held in place - real botanicals, permanently in bloom.
Do preserved flowers need water? Never. No water, no vase refills, no wilting on your watch. Simply place your arrangement and let it be.
How long will my arrangement last? With proper care, your preserved botanicals can last for years - some pieces even longer. They won't behave exactly like the day they arrived (a little natural softening over time is part of their charm), but they're designed for lasting beauty, not a fleeting moment.
How do I care for my arrangement?
- Display in a cool, room-temperature space, away from direct heat or humidity
- Keep out of direct sunlight, which can fade the florals over time
- Dust gently with a soft duster or air blower every few months
- Leave the arrangement in its original vase - each piece is hand-secured for a reason
- Don't add water, insert additional stems, or remove the flowers from their vessel
Will my arrangement look exactly like the photos? Every House of Harstad piece is hand-composed using real preserved botanicals, which means natural variation is part of the story. Your arrangement will capture the same spirit, palette, and character as pictured - but no two blooms, feathers, or moss beds are ever identical twins.
Can I request a custom arrangement? Absolutely - custom and bespoke commissions are one of our favorite ways to work. Whether it's a specific palette, a meaningful vessel, or a piece designed around a story only you know, reach out and we'll bring it to life together.
Do you offer bridal florals? We do - though intentionally on an intimate scale. Our bridal offerings focus on keepsake pieces like bouquets, boutonnières, hairpieces, and garlands, designed as heirlooms that outlast the day itself. We do not currently offer large-scale ceremony or reception installations.
Do you work with businesses or offer corporate gifting? Yes. From corporate gifting to our Botanical Concierge program for offices and law firms, we design pieces that bring lasting beauty - and a little wellbeing - into professional spaces. Reach out to discuss volume, branding, and program options.
Do you offer moss installations or moss wall art? We do - moss installations are one of our signature offerings, from statement wall pieces to full biophilic design moments. Every installation is custom to the space.
How do I place an order? Browse our collections online, or reach out directly for bespoke and commission work. Many of our bridal and larger installation pieces are inquiry-based so we can tailor the experience - and the budget - to you.
Do you ship? Yes - our preserved arrangements are designed to travel well. [Add specific shipping regions, timelines, and costs here once finalized.]
What if my arrangement arrives damaged? Reach out right away with photos of the piece and packaging, and we'll make it right.
Where are you located? House of Harstad is based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, founded by Melanie Harstad - a former banking and corporate attorney turned preserved botanical designer, inspired by a childhood spent on a fly-fishing camp along Wisconsin's St. Croix River.
