Real Flowers On Wedding Cakes: Yay Or Nay?

Flowers are a beautiful and elegant way to decorate a wedding cake. While fresh flowers are a popular choice, there are several factors to consider when deciding whether to use real or artificial flowers. One concern is food safety, as some flowers are toxic and can cause illness if consumed. Even non-toxic flowers may be treated with pesticides or contaminated with dirt and bacteria, which can be harmful if they come into contact with the cake. To prevent this, florists can wrap flower stems in floral tape or place them in water holders or straws before inserting them into the cake. Another option is to use sugar or silk flowers, which are food-safe and can be customised to match the wedding colours and theme. Ultimately, the decision of whether to use real or artificial flowers on a wedding cake depends on the couple's preferences, budget, and the availability of flowers that are safe for food contact.

Pros and cons of using real flowers on a wedding cake

Using real flowers on a wedding cake can be a beautiful and elegant way to decorate it. However, there are some pros and cons to consider before making a decision.

Pros

• Real flowers can add a special touch to a wedding cake and make it feel more elegant and timeless.
• They can be a good option if you want the cake to match the other wedding florals without any extra hassle.
• Real flowers are usually less expensive than sugar flowers, which can be quite costly and time-consuming to create.
• If you're looking for a last-minute option, real flowers can be a good choice, as they don't require much advance planning.

Cons

• Some flowers may not be safe to use on cakes due to toxicity or the presence of pesticides. It's important to ensure that any flowers used are organic and non-toxic.
• Real flowers may not last long without water, and some types of flowers may start to wilt quickly, especially if the cake is left out for a while before being served.
• There is a risk of cross-contamination if the flowers are not properly prepared and handled. Stems should be wrapped or placed in floral picks to prevent direct contact with the cake.
• If the flowers are not properly secured, they can affect the stability of the cake, especially if they are heavy.
• Real flowers may release bugs or have an unpleasant taste, impacting the overall sensory experience of the cake.

How to prepare real flowers for a wedding cake

Flowers are a beautiful and elegant way to decorate a wedding cake. If you want to use real flowers on your wedding cake, here are some steps you can follow to prepare them:

Step 1: Choosing the Flowers

When selecting flowers for your wedding cake, it is important to prioritise safety. Avoid any flowers that are toxic or poisonous. You can find lists of edible and non-toxic flowers online, but some common edible flowers include roses, lavender, elderflower, and sunflowers, while non-toxic options include lisianthus, freesia, and orchids. It is also a good idea to choose organic flowers that have not been treated with pesticides.

Step 2: Buying the Flowers

Purchase your flowers from a florist, a grocery store, or a farmer's market. Buy more flowers than you think you need, as some may wilt before you use them. Select a variety of large and small flowers, as well as some leaves, to create a beautiful arrangement.

Step 3: Keeping Flowers Fresh

Flowers usually come with a packet of flower vitamins that you can mix with water to help keep them fresh. Follow the instructions on how to mix this solution and keep your flowers in water until you are ready to use them.

Step 4: Preparing the Flowers

Cut the stems of your chosen flowers to approximately 2-3 inches in length. Wrap each stem individually with floral tape, a special type of tape that sticks to itself and usually comes in different shades of green. You can also use plastic wrap to cover the stems, securing it with the floral tape. This will prevent any fluids from the stems from leaking into the cake.

Step 5: Adding Flowers to the Cake

If you plan to add flowers to the sides of the cake or position them at specific angles, you can use bubble tea straws to secure them in place. Insert the straws into the cake at the desired angle and then slip the flower stems into the straw openings. Clear straws are best so that they are invisible if they are not fully covered by the frosting.

Alternatively, you can place a cake board on top of the cake and add flowers to it. This way, the flowers never come into direct contact with the cake, and you don't have to worry about wrapping the stems. When it's time to cut the cake, simply remove the cardboard cake round.

It is best to add fresh flowers to your wedding cake on the same day as your wedding to ensure they look their best.

Final Thoughts:

While real flowers on a wedding cake can be stunning, it is important to prioritise food safety and choose flowers that are non-toxic and free from pesticides. By following the steps outlined above, you can safely and effectively use real flowers to decorate your wedding cake.

Alternatives to real flowers on a wedding cake

There are several alternatives to real flowers on a wedding cake. Here are some options to consider:

Artificial Flowers

Artificial flowers, such as silk flowers, are a popular alternative to real flowers. They look realistic, are soft to the touch, and designed to replicate real flower blooming patterns. Silk flowers are less likely to wilt and are less sensitive to weather conditions than real flowers. They also eliminate the risk of toxicity or allergies associated with certain fresh flowers. However, they may be more expensive than real flowers, especially if you require multiple bouquets. Additionally, silk flowers do not have a floral scent, so they may not be the best choice if you want your cake to have a subtle floral aroma.

Wafer Paper Flowers

Wafer paper flowers are made from potato starch, oil, and water, and they resemble communion wafers. They are edible, tasteless, and dissolve in the mouth. Wafer paper flowers are lightweight, flexible, and less breakable than sugar flowers. They can be stored for an extended period after the wedding if kept correctly. However, they may contain inedible elements like wires, so it is best to assume they are not meant to be eaten.

Sugar Flowers

Sugar flowers are handcrafted from gumpaste or fondant and harden as they dry, allowing them to hold their shape. They are completely food-safe and edible, making them a perfect addition to a wedding cake. You can order any type of flower in any size to fit your cake. However, sugar flowers are the most expensive option and may come in a limited range of colours, typically paler and more chic shades.

Buttercream Painted Greenery or Flowers

If you want to avoid using flowers altogether, consider a buttercream-painted cake. This option offers endless possibilities for colours and designs to match your wedding theme. You can add touches of metallic gold or silver, or keep it neutral.

Dehydrated Citrus Slices and Hand-Painted Fruit Petals

Another creative alternative is to use dehydrated citrus slices and hand-painted fruit petals to decorate your wedding cake. This natural botanical approach will make your cake unique and visually appealing.

The cost of real flowers vs alternatives

The cost of decorating a wedding cake with flowers can vary depending on the type of flowers used. Real flowers are generally the most affordable option, with silk flowers being more expensive and sugar flowers being the most costly.

The average cost of wedding flowers in the US is $2,200 to $2,800, with the floral budget accounting for 8-15% of the total wedding cost. This includes bouquets, centerpieces, and any flowers for the cake.

Real flowers are a cost-effective option for wedding cakes, especially if you have a limited flower budget. They can add a layer of freshness to the cake and can be coordinated with the rest of the wedding flowers. However, real flowers require more maintenance and may not be suitable for outdoor or humid weddings as they can wilt easily.

Silk flowers are a more expensive option but can look very lifelike. They are less sensitive to weather conditions and do not pose any toxicity or allergy risks. Silk flowers can be ordered through a florist and coordinated with the cake designer.

Sugar flowers are the most expensive option as they are handmade with painstaking detail. They are food-safe and edible, and can be ordered in any flower type, size, and color. Sugar flowers are a good choice for couples who want their wedding cake to match their flower choice, regardless of the season.

When deciding between real flowers, silk flowers, or sugar flowers for a wedding cake, it is important to consider the budget, personal preferences, and the level of maintenance required.

The safety of using real flowers on a wedding cake

Food Safety:

The use of fresh flowers on wedding cakes has come under scrutiny due to food safety concerns. The Food Standards Agency (FSA) in the UK has introduced new legislation with guidelines about which flowers can and cannot be used on cakes for public consumption. These guidelines are expected to become law in 2024 and will be applicable to all food products, including celebration cakes. Even before these guidelines become mandatory, it is advisable for cake makers to follow them to ensure the safety of their customers.

Toxicity and Contamination:

Some flowers are toxic and should not be used on cakes. Examples include hydrangeas, lilies, daffodils, rhododendron, and eucalyptus. Even non-toxic flowers may have been treated with pesticides or other chemicals that are not safe for human consumption. It is essential to source flowers that are organic or specifically grown for food use.

Physical Hazards:

Real flowers can pose physical hazards when placed directly on a cake. Bare stems inserted into the cake can introduce foreign objects such as dirt, leaves, or insects. They can also affect the stability of the cake, making it more prone to crumbling. Additionally, the fluids from flower stems can leach into the frosting or cake layers, resulting in an unpleasant taste.

Best Practices:

To ensure safety, there are several recommended practices to follow. Firstly, create a barrier between the flowers and the cake. This can be done by wrapping individual stems with floral tape or using flower picks, straws, or water holders. Alternatively, place a cake board on top of the cake and arrange the flowers on it, removing it before serving. Secondly, ensure proper collaboration and communication between the cake maker and the florist. The cake maker should provide clear guidelines to the florist about the types of flowers and the necessary precautions. Finally, add the flowers to the cake as close to the event as possible to prevent wilting.

Frequently asked questions