Deborah Chan
Wedding flowers are a key part of any ceremony, but with so many options available, how do you know whether to choose real or artificial flowers? Many couples opt for artificial flowers due to their affordability, ease of maintenance, year-round availability, customisability, and lower risk of causing allergies. However, real flowers are typically seen as more elegant and natural, and they have a pleasant scent. The choice between real and artificial flowers depends on the couple's preferences, budget, theme, and desired longevity. Some couples may even opt for a mix of real and artificial flowers. Ultimately, the decision is a personal one, and there is no right or wrong answer.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cost of real flowers | $100 to $500 or more |
| Cost of fake flowers | Less than real flowers |
| Durability | Real flowers are ephemeral, fake flowers last longer |
| Eco-friendliness | Real flowers create more waste, fake flowers can be reused |
| Accessibility | Real flowers are seasonal and may need to be shipped, fake flowers are always available |
| Aesthetics | Real flowers are considered more beautiful, fake flowers have improved in quality |
| Smell | Real flowers smell nice, fake flowers don't |
| Feel | Real flowers are traditional and special, fake flowers are more convenient |
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What You'll Learn
Pros and cons of real vs fake flowers
The bridal bouquet is the most important floral arrangement at a wedding. It should encompass the aesthetic and colour scheme that the couple has planned. While fresh flowers are traditional, artificial flowers have become increasingly popular.
Real flowers
Fresh flowers have been used in weddings for hundreds of years. They are beautiful, fragrant, and can give your wedding a romantic, natural feel. They are usually accessible, depending on the season and where you live. However, if the flowers you want are not in season or grown locally, shipping can be costly. Real flowers are also more expensive than artificial flowers and difficult to maintain throughout a long wedding day. They may also cause allergies for some guests or members of the wedding party.
Artificial flowers
Artificial flowers are environmentally friendly, durable, and affordable. They come in a wide range of colours and designs, including silk and wood flowers, and can be rented or bought. They are also low-maintenance, as they do not need to be watered and will not wilt. You can even keep them as a memento of your wedding day. However, some people may prefer the look and scent of fresh flowers.
A combination of both
Some couples opt for a mix of real, dried, and artificial flowers and greenery. This can be a good way to get the benefits of both options, such as having fresh flowers for the bridal bouquet and artificial flowers for decorations that will be seen from a distance. However, there is a risk that the colour difference between real and artificial flowers may be noticeable.
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Cost of real flowers
The cost of real flower wedding bouquets varies depending on factors such as the type of flowers, the size of the bouquet, the skill of the designer, and the location.
On average, brides typically spend anywhere from $100 to $500 or more on a real flower bridal bouquet. However, the cost can be significantly higher depending on the specific flowers used and the complexity of the arrangement. For example, a bouquet with premium novelty flowers, such as garden roses, peonies, and protea, can cost upwards of $250 or more.
The overall cost of wedding flowers, including bouquets, boutonnieres, and centerpieces, can also vary depending on the wedding region, time of year, guest count, and whether it is a local or destination wedding. According to The Knot's 2025 Real Weddings Study, the average cost of wedding flowers was $2,723, with couples in the Mid-Atlantic spending the most at an average of $3,457.
To save costs, some brides opt for wholesale markets or DIY options from stores like Trader Joe's and Costco, which offer more affordable prices for flowers and greenery. Additionally, reusing ceremony flowers at the reception and repurposing them for reception tables can help stretch the flower budget further.
While fresh flowers can be expensive, they offer a romantic and natural feel to the wedding and can be sourced locally or ordered from other areas, although the extra shipping will be costly.
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$37.96 $39.96
Cost of fake flowers
The cost of fake flowers depends on several factors, including the quality, design, quantity, and vendor.
Inexpensive silk flowers for a bridal bouquet can cost between $20 and $100, depending on the size and number of flowers. More expensive real-touch flowers can cost upwards of $300. On the other hand, latex roses can be found for around $25 for 50 heads, and fabric flowers, such as satin roses, can be purchased for a few dollars per flower.
If you are looking for a more premium product, Something Spectacular offers silk artificial bridal bouquets with ultra-realistic, premium-quality materials. While their prices are not listed, they state that they are not the cheapest option available and that their customers get what they pay for in terms of quality.
It is also important to consider the cost of creating the bouquets yourself in terms of time and effort. While some people enjoy the DIY aspect, others may prefer the convenience of having a florist take care of the flowers. Additionally, if you are ordering artificial flowers online, remember to factor in the cost of shipping, which can be upwards of $20 per order.
In terms of overall cost, one person spent less than $75 on fake flowers for seven bouquets, while another spent $240 on flowers for the same number of bouquets. In comparison, real flowers for a full wedding can start at around $3000.
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How to make a bouquet last
Wedding bouquets can be made from real flowers or artificial flowers. If you have a bouquet of real flowers, there are several things you can do to make them last longer. Firstly, make sure to prune any leaves that are below the water line. This will not only make your bouquet look better but will also prevent bacterial growth. After your initial pruning, check your flowers daily for dead or loose leaves and petals to avoid bacterial rot.
It is also important to water your flowers wisely. Ensure you use room temperature or lukewarm water and add a packet of flower food. Clean your vase thoroughly and change the water and flower food every two to three days to keep your bouquet hydrated.
You should also avoid placing your bouquet in direct sunlight, heat, drafts, or near fruit. Ripening fruits release tiny amounts of ethylene gas, which can reduce the longevity of your bouquet.
There are also several home remedies you can try to make your bouquet last longer. For example, mixing apple cider vinegar and sugar with the water in your vase can help inhibit bacterial growth. Alternatively, some people swear by adding bleach or vinegar to the water, or even copper coins, as copper ions dissolved in water suppress the growth of mould and bacteria.
Finally, make sure to edit your bouquet as needed. Some flowers last longer than others, so remove any spent flowers or wilted foliage. As the size of the arrangement shrinks, you can transfer it into a smaller vase.
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Alternatives to real flowers
Fresh flowers have been used in weddings for hundreds of years, and they are still the norm in the wedding industry. However, fresh flowers can be expensive, difficult to maintain, and likely to go to waste. Artificial flowers are a great alternative, and there are many options to choose from.
Silk flowers are one of the most well-known alternatives to real flowers in wedding bouquets. They are available in countless designs and colours and are a stunning replica of traditional fresh blossoms. They are also more affordable than fresh flowers. Whether you want to use silk flowers for centrepieces or for your bridal bouquet, Etsy has some amazing options. You can purchase pre-made arrangements or singular blooms to create your own unique design.
Wood flowers are another option for brides seeking a boho, romantic look. They are made from dried tapioca root and other natural materials, and they can be dyed to match any shade. Sola wood flowers are a type of real-touch fake flower that won't wilt in hot locations.
Paper wedding bouquets are a popular and creative alternative to fresh flowers, offering a unique, customisable, and often eco-friendly option. Paper bouquets can include detailed, lifelike petals or more artistic designs.
If you're looking for something truly unique, there are many other alternatives to a traditional bouquet. For a beach wedding, you could carry a sea glass wind chime, or for a rustic vineyard wedding, a bouquet of grapes. A feather and crystal bouquet adds a touch of sparkle, while a brooch bouquet combines vintage glam with sparkle. For a pop of colour, consider a cobalt blue feather bouquet, or for a winter wedding, a fur muff will make you feel like a fairytale princess.
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Frequently asked questions
Artificial flowers are more affordable, easier to maintain, and can be customised to match the wedding's colour scheme and theme. They are also available all year round and are less likely to cause allergies.
Real flowers are more natural, elegant, and fragrant. They are also more likely to be in line with the wedding industry norm.
Yes, you can rent a bouquet made from silk flowers. This is a more eco-friendly option that creates less waste.
