Not sure whether to have fresh wedding flowers or faux for your special day? Making a decision depends on a variety of factors.
But before I get into this discussion I wanted to share with you my experience at the July Melbourne and Honeymoon Bridal Expo. Our stand featured fresh wedding flowers only. On display there were around 8 different bridal bouquet styles, with matching groom buttonholes, flower girls head circlets and floral crowns. Couples visiting approached with curiosity, using phrases like, “are these real?”, “are they fresh?”, “are the flowers faux?”. Once they picked up and held the bouquet of their choice it was clear to see they were excited by the opportunity to feel what it would be like to carry a fresh flower wedding bouquet or wear a buttonhole.
I was intrigued by their questions, which leads me to ask why a Bride would choose fresh or faux flowers for their wedding celebration.
I can completely understand the appeal of faux wedding flowers. They last a lifetime, will always look perfect, can be made in advance, are perceived to be cheaper than fresh flowers, are always in season, are non-allergenic, are easily transportable and will never wilt.
But artificial flowers stop short on the feeling you get when you are holding and looking at flowers for their natural beauty. Real flowers are Nature’s gifts. They are breathtaking because they are created by the living world, not by a machine. Even the best silk flowers can’t replace the scent of the Amie Lou ivory white Rose, or Mr Lincoln rich ruby red rose.
The difference in cost between fresh and artificial flowers depends on the quality of the artificial wedding flowers you choose. The silk version of high quality wedding flowers you have your heart set on will likely cost significantly more. If you want to have seasonal flowers that are grown locally, there probably isn’t much difference between fresh and artificial flowers. If you have your heart set on rare and exotic blooms that are out of season, you may save some money by having artificial ones made.
Flower arrangements and bouquets take the same amount of time for your florist to make, whether they are fresh or artificial, so the labour costs will be the same.
My take on fresh wedding flowers versus faux – I would choose fresh every time. Why? well, my life story has shaped my feelings about fresh flowers. I was raised on a farm in rural Victoria where my family were self sufficient. As a child, I would spend my time exploring the country side in search of fresh flowers. Depending on the time of year, I may find seasonal beauties like, buttery yellow Freesia, dainty Violets, Lily-of-the-valley and royal purple Happy Wanderer, which trails through shrubs and up tall white Ghost Gum trees. Fresh flowers ignite a feeling of happiness on a different level to fake flowers.
Conclusion- fresh wedding flowers wins every time
Yes, fake do last a lifetime, but some things are enjoyed more when you know it’s to be enjoyed in the moment. At home I am surrounded by lush green hedges and shrubs which flower in the late Winter, so it’s something I know I can look forward to. In our flower studio, for 25 years we have enjoyed the circle of the seasons. Winter is made bearable when the first season of heavenly scented Daphne is brought into the store. The excitement cherry blossoms bring because you know Spring is just around the corner.
Enjoying the anticipation of the arrival of Nature’s gifts, that’s what makes me choose fresh flowers over faux every time.
Please share your comments. I would love to know if you would choose fresh or faux wedding flowers.
