Wedding Flower: Fake vs Fresh

According to research by Bride Magazine, wedding flowers are the 6th most search for on Pinterest during wedding planning (42%), over-shadowing stationery searches at 28% and even wedding dress searches at 35%.

Although fresh flowers are still the most preferred option for weddings, more brides are exploring silk flowers for their bouquets, venue décor and to help cut costs.

Firstly, consider the time of year your wedding will take place before deciding on flowers. The choice of real flowers available will be dependent on the season and the time of year they bloom. However, if you have your heart set on lilies for a winter wedding, this is where silk flowers can be a great addition to your bouquet.

Consider which season you are getting married in when choosing your flowers

Silk flowers are also very practical for a summer wedding, as they won’t wilt in the heat – ideal if you are having outdoor flower décor - and your guests won’t be at risk of hay fever during high pollen months.

However, no pollen means no fragrance, so if your dreaming of walking into your venue surrounded by the smell of roses and lavender opt for the real deal.

Fake flowers may be able to help your budget to go a little further but be careful as many high-end silk flowers can end up costing more than real ones.
Last year, couples spent around of £1500 of their wedding budget on their wedding flowers, according to Interflora.

Simple fake flowers, such as rings of holly for a winter wedding or rings of white roses for a summer wedding, are budget friendly options to add to your table décor, as many can be purchased in sets. However, if you want a large silk flower bouquet, scrimping on your budget can make the flowers look cheap, tacky and obvious.

Alternatively, why not use fresh flowers for your bridal bouquet, and then choose silk flowers to make mini copies of your bouquet for the bridesmaids. With their fake flowers, your bridesmaids can keep them after the big day as a memorable keepsake.

Couples can do the same with their wedding décor. If you are opting for fake flowers in vases or archways, why not display them in your home or outside in your garden afterwards. You can also setup your fake floral venue décor in plenty of time before the big day without worrying about the flowers being damaged or fading.

Button bouquets are a great way to add personality and make a stylish keepsake

If you are envisioning dramatic floral archways and flower walls, real flowers are best for this as they can be easily cut and re-worked into the display, whereas fake flowers often include plastic stems which are tricky to trim and difficult to bend. However, you could bulk out your floral displays on a budget by adding in fake grass, ivy leaves and berries.

One growing trend which is taking a unique twist on floral bouquets altogether are button bouquets. Created by design specialists, these hand sewn bouquets are custom made to suit your wedding theme and colour. Many are personalised for the bride or couple to pay homage to hobbies, travels and their relationship. They are also beautiful keepsakes to frame and display after the big day.