When planning a wedding or special event, one of the many decisions you'll need to make is whether to use real or fake flowers. Both options have their own advantages and disadvantages, so it's important to weigh the factors carefully before making a decision.
Real Flowers
Pros:
Real flowers are naturally beautiful and have a delicate fragrance that can enhance the ambiance of your event.
They can be customized to match your specific color scheme and theme.
Real flowers can be a more sustainable option if they are locally sourced and grown in an eco-friendly manner.
Cons:
Real flowers can be expensive, especially if you're using a large quantity.
They require more care and maintenance, as they need to be watered and kept fresh.
Real flowers have a limited lifespan and will eventually wilt and die.
Fake Flowers
Pros:
Fake flowers are more affordable than real flowers, making them a great option if you're on a tight budget.
They are more durable and long-lasting, so you can use them for multiple events or display them in your home after the event is over.
Fake flowers require minimal care and maintenance, as they don't need to be watered or kept fresh.
Cons:
Fake flowers can look artificial and lack the natural beauty and fragrance of real flowers.
They may not be as customizable as real flowers, as you may have limited options in terms of color and style.
Fake flowers can be less sustainable, as they are often made from non-biodegradable materials.
Additional Factors to Consider
The size and scale of your event: If you're having a large wedding or event, real flowers may be a better choice to create a more impressive and memorable display. However, if you're having a smaller, more intimate gathering, fake flowers may be a more practical and cost-effective option.
The time of year: If you're getting married or having an event during the off-season for flowers, real flowers may be more expensive and harder to find. In this case, fake flowers may be a better option.
Your personal preferences: Ultimately, the decision between real and fake flowers is a personal one. If you love the natural beauty and fragrance of real flowers, they may be worth the extra cost and effort. However, if you're looking for a more affordable and low-maintenance option, fake flowers may be a better choice.
How to Hire a Florist
If you decide to go with real flowers, it's important to hire a qualified and experienced florist to help you bring your vision to life. Here are a few tips for hiring a florist:
Get recommendations: Ask friends, family, or your wedding planner for recommendations of florists they've worked with and been happy with.
Do your research: Read reviews of florists online and check out their portfolios to get an idea of their style and work.
Meet with potential florists: Once you've narrowed down your list, meet with a few potential florists to discuss your vision, budget, and expectations.
Get a written quote: Before you make a decision, get a written quote from each florist that includes the cost of flowers, delivery, setup, and any additional services.
Using Real Flowers Versus Using Fake Flowers
There are a few key differences between using real flowers and using fake flowers for your wedding or event. Here's a comparison of the two:
Feature | Real Flowers | Fake Flowers |
Cost | Typically more expensive | Typically more affordable |
Care and maintenance | Require more care and maintenance (need to be watered and kept fresh) | Require minimal care and maintenance (don't need to be watered or kept fresh) |
Lifespan | Have a limited lifespan and will eventually wilt and die | Are more durable and long-lasting (can be used for multiple events or displayed in your home after the event is over) |
Customization | Can be customized to match your specific color scheme and theme | May not be as customizable (may have limited options in terms of color and style) |
Sustainability | Can be a more sustainable option if they are locally sourced and grown in an eco-friendly manner | Are often made from non-biodegradable materials, so they may be less sustainable |
Mixed Floral Arrangements
When it comes to floral arrangements for events, there are many options to consider. One popular choice is to use a mixed floral arrangement, which combines both fresh and silk flowers. This can be a great way to create a visually stunning display while also staying within budget.
Another option to consider is to use high centerpieces with silk floral arrangements and low centerpieces with fresh arrangements. This can create a dramatic effect and draw the eye
What to Do with the Flowers Afterward:
After your wedding or event, you may be wondering what to do with the flowers. Here are a few ideas:
Donate them to a local charity or hospital.
Press them and use them in a scrapbook or other craft
Distribute them as party favors to guests.