Artificial Flowers On Wedding Cakes: A Stylish Guide

Flowers are a popular choice for decorating wedding cakes. They are versatile, easily customizable, and can be used to create a romantic or fun look. While fresh flowers are a beautiful option, artificial flowers are often preferred for wedding cakes as they do not wilt, are always in season, and require less preparation time. Silk flowers are a popular choice as they are realistic, soft, and can be reused. When using artificial flowers on a wedding cake, it is important to clean and dry them thoroughly before placing them on the cake to avoid ruining the icing or cake consistency. Stems can be trimmed to create stability or removed entirely if the flowers are meant to be mere toppings. It is also crucial to inform guests that the flowers are not edible.

Choosing the right flowers

Type of Artificial Flowers

The most popular types of artificial flowers for wedding cakes include silk flowers, sola wood flowers, and sugar flowers. Silk flowers are the most realistic and premium option, known for their soft petals and resemblance to real blooms. Sola wood flowers are also gaining popularity and are known for their longevity. Sugar flowers, made from fondant or gum paste, are edible and can be a great keepsake.

Colour and Theme

Before choosing your artificial flowers, consider the colour scheme and theme of your wedding. Do you want the flowers to match the bridal bouquet or the wedding decor? Are you aiming for a classic, romantic feel with blush roses and hydrangeas, or something more fun and modern like dahlias?

Size and Arrangement

Think about the size of the flowers and how you want to arrange them on the cake. Larger, heavier flowers might require longer stems for stability, while smaller, more delicate flowers can be placed directly on the surface. Consider creating a detailed plan or sketch of your desired arrangement to ensure a beautiful and well-balanced result.

Quality and Safety

It is important to choose high-quality artificial flowers that are safe for use on food products. Ensure that the dyes and materials used are non-toxic and free from allergens. Check reviews or ask the seller about any potential toxicity or allergens associated with the flowers.

Cost and Availability

Artificial flowers can vary in price, with silk flowers typically being more expensive than real flowers, while sola wood flowers are a more affordable option. Consider your budget and the availability of the flowers, especially if you're opting for a particular type of flower that may be out of season.

Remember, your wedding cake is a reflection of your personal style and taste. Take the time to choose artificial flowers that align with your vision and create a stunning display that your guests will admire and remember.

Preparing the flowers

Choose the Right Flowers:

Before you begin, decide on the type of artificial flowers you want to use. Silk flowers are a popular choice for wedding cakes as they are realistic, soft to the touch, and mimic real flower blooming patterns. You can also explore other options like sola wood flowers or foam flowers.

Source Your Flowers:

Once you've decided on the type of flower, it's time to source them. You can order online or purchase them from craft stores, garden centers, department stores, or even your local florist. If opting for silk flowers, your florist may be able to provide them, especially if you're carrying silk bouquets for your wedding.

Trim the Stems:

Artificial flowers often come with long stems. To prepare them for your cake, trim and cut the stems to the appropriate length. If you want the flowers to lay flat on the cake, cut the stems as short as possible. For larger, heavier flowers that need more support, keep the stems longer so they can anchor well into the cake.

Clean the Flowers:

Before placing them on an edible cake, it is essential to clean the flowers thoroughly. Wash every part of the flower, including the stems, petals, and leaves, to ensure no dirt or contaminants are transferred to the cake.

Dry the Flowers:

After cleaning, gently shake the flowers to remove any trapped water, and then use a paper towel to dry them thoroughly. Turn the flowers upside down and dab them gently to remove any water trapped in the petals. Drying the flowers is crucial to prevent moisture from ruining the icing or cake's consistency.

Optional: Assemble the Flowers:

If you want to create a floral cluster or corsage, you can use floral tape or a foam holder to secure the flowers together. This step is optional and depends on the desired arrangement and placement on the cake.

Remember, when preparing artificial flowers for your wedding cake, always ensure they are clean and dry to maintain food safety and prevent any damage to the cake's appearance and structure.

Trimming the stems

Before you start trimming, decide on the arrangement and placement of the flowers on the cake. Do you want them to lay flat on the surface or have a little extra height? This will determine how much of the stem you need to cut off. If you're going for a flat look, trim the stems as close to the base of the flower as possible. For a more three-dimensional effect, leave a bit more stem, but be mindful of the overall height of your cake.

When trimming the stems, use sharp scissors or wire cutters to make clean cuts. This will help the flowers sit more securely and reduce the risk of the stems poking through the cake or leaving holes. If the stems are thin and flexible, you can carefully bend them to adjust the height or angle of the flowers.

Another factor to consider is the weight of the flowers. If you're using larger or heavier flowers, it's a good idea to keep the stems longer for added stability. This will help anchor the flowers in the cake and prevent them from toppling over. On the other hand, if the flowers are small and lightweight, you can remove the stems completely and place them directly on the cake surface.

Always handle the flowers gently to avoid damaging the petals or bending the stems too much. If you're working with wired stems, be cautious not to cut through the wire, as it can be sharp and potentially hazardous. After trimming, give the flowers a gentle shake to remove any trapped water and loose debris.

Remember, the key to successful stem trimming is to cut the stems according to your desired arrangement and the stability needed for each flower. Take your time, and don't be afraid to adjust as you go. Happy cake decorating!

Placing the flowers on the cake

Now that you have selected and prepared your artificial flowers, it is time to place them on your wedding cake. There are two common ways to do this:

• Placing the flowers on the surface of the cake: Use a piece of wax paper to cover the area where the flowers will sit on the cake. Add a small amount of buttercream or icing to the wax paper to help the flower stay in place. This method allows for easy removal and prevents any contact between the flowers and the edible parts of the cake.
• Embedding part of the flower inside the cake: If your flowers need more stability, you can embed the stem of the flower inside the cake. First, wrap the stem in plastic wrap, then stick the stems into the cake one by one according to your desired design.

When placing the flowers on the cake, it is important to consider the arrangement and placement. You can create a detailed plan beforehand, deciding on the colours and types of flowers to use, as well as their positions on the cake. You can also get creative and experiment with different looks. Remember to ensure that the flowers are placed securely and do not interfere with the overall structure of the cake.

Additionally, if you are using a combination of real and artificial flowers, it is recommended to add the real flowers closer to the time of the event to prevent wilting.

Pros and cons of artificial flowers

Pros of Artificial Flowers

• They require less preparation time than real flowers.
• They are always available, no matter the season.
• They do not require watering.
• They are generally less expensive than real flowers.
• They don't wilt, making them perfect for occasions like weddings where the cake is expected to sit for a while before cutting.
• They are less sensitive to weather conditions.
• They do not cause allergies.
• They are low maintenance.
• They are reusable.

Cons of Artificial Flowers

• They may be difficult to find in your desired type at a local store.
• They may be of low quality, especially if they are not high-quality artificial flowers.
• They do not have a floral scent.
• It can be hard to find a good colour match with silk flowers.
• They are more expensive than real flowers.

Frequently asked questions