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FLOWERS: Real vs. Artificial for Your Wedding - What You Need to Know


photo credit to Olga Mohr Photography


When planning a wedding, flowers are a key element in setting the mood, theme, and overall aesthetic. Whether you dream of lush bouquets or elegant centerpieces, the choice between real and artificial flowers can significantly impact your wedding day. Here’s a breakdown of the differences of real vs. artificial flowers, with examples, options, and factors like budget, season, and tradition to help you decide which is best for you.


Real vs. Artificial Flowers: Breaking it Down


wedding couple at golden hour
photo credit to Olga Mohr Photography

Real Flowers: A Timeless Tradition

1. Authenticity and Fragrance:

  • Pros: Real flowers offer a natural beauty and fragrance that can’t be fully replicated by artificial alternatives. Their freshness and texture contribute to the atmosphere, enhancing the sensory experience for you and your guests.

  • Cons: Real flowers are perishable and require careful handling to ensure they remain fresh throughout the day.

2. Seasonality and Variety:

  • Pros: Choosing flowers that are in season can save money and ensure that the blooms are at their best. Seasonal flowers like peonies in spring, sunflowers in summer, or chrysanthemums in fall add a touch of nature’s rhythm to your wedding.

  • Cons: Out-of-season flowers can be costly and hard to source. For example, having tulips in winter might require special orders, increasing your budget.

3. Tradition and Symbolism:

  • Pros: Real flowers are steeped in tradition. Many couples choose them for their symbolic meanings—like roses for love or lilies for purity—which can add depth to your ceremony and décor.

  • Cons: The symbolism is strong, but the fleeting nature of real flowers means they won't last long after the big day.

4. Budget Considerations:

  • Example: A wedding with fresh roses, lilies, and hydrangeas can quickly add up. Depending on the number of arrangements, real flowers might cost anywhere from $1,000 to $5,000 or more.

  • Alternatives: To stay within budget, consider using real flowers only for key arrangements, like the bridal bouquet, and supplementing with more affordable options elsewhere.


sola wood floral bouquets for fall wedding
photo credit to Lauren Bri Photography

Artificial Flowers: Practicality Meets Creativity

1. Durability and Reusability:

  • Pros: Artificial flowers are durable and can be prepared well in advance, reducing wedding-day stress. They won’t wilt, and you can keep them as a memento or even repurpose them in home décor.

  • Cons: They lack the fragrance and tactile appeal of real flowers, which some might find detracts from the experience.

2. Flexibility and Availability:

  • Pros: Artificial flowers are available year-round, regardless of season, allowing you to choose any type of flower you want. Whether it’s winter or summer, you can have peonies, roses, or orchids without worrying about their availability.

  • Cons: Some high-quality artificial flowers can be expensive, especially if you opt for silk or other realistic materials.

sola wood bouquets for wedding with navy and blush colors

3. Customization and Color Variety:

  • Pros: With artificial flowers, the sky's the limit in terms of color and design. You can match any theme or color palette, even if the flowers don’t naturally come in those shades. They also allow for creativity in design—think non-traditional arrangements or mixed-media bouquets.

  • Cons: While there are many options, cheaper artificial flowers can look tacky or unrealistic, so it’s important to choose wisely.

4. Budget Considerations:

  • Example: A full set of artificial flowers, including bouquets, centerpieces, and boutonnieres, might range from $500 to $2,000, depending on the quality and quantity.

  • Alternatives: Renting artificial flowers is another budget-friendly option. You can have high-quality arrangements for a fraction of the cost, and you won’t have to worry about storage afterward.


bridal bouquet with real flowers and succulents
photo credit to The Lilac Lion Photography

Which Should You Choose?

Consider Your Priorities:

  • If Tradition and Authenticity Are Key: Real flowers might be the right choice, especially if you value the symbolism and sensory experience they provide.


  • If Practicality and Budget Are More Important: Artificial flowers offer flexibility, durability, and a wide range of options, making them ideal for those who want a stress-free experience.

Think About the Environment:

  • Real flowers are biodegradable, but they often require transport and preservation methods that have environmental impacts. Artificial flowers, on the other hand, are long-lasting but can be less eco-friendly depending on the materials used.

Blending Both Options:

  • You don’t have to choose one over the other entirely. Many couples opt for a mix of real and artificial flowers. For example, using real flowers for personal items like bouquets and boutonnieres, and artificial flowers for large installations or décor that’s less closely inspected.

Your wedding day is unique, and so should be your floral choices. There is a lot to consider with real vs. artificial flowers. Whether you go with real, artificial, or a combination of both, what matters most is that your flowers reflect your personal style, values, and vision for your big day. Take the time to explore your options, consider your priorities, and make a decision that feels right for you.

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