Summary
When it comes to event planning, choosing between artificial and real flowers can impact your budget, aesthetics, and logistics. In this guide, we break down the pros and cons of each option to help you style your celebration beautifully and smartly. Explore cost-effective centerpieces and floral solutions for your event decor.
Our Products
Silk Flower Wall Backdrop
All Artificial Flowers
Loose Stems & Bunches
Why the Choice Between Real and Faux Flowers Matters
Florals play a major role in setting the tone for events. Whether it’s a wedding arch, sweetheart table, or full floral wall, your flower choices affect both the visual style and the overall spend. While fresh flowers offer fragrance and natural beauty, artificial flowers provide long-term savings and flexibility. Choosing the right one depends on your event needs, timeline, and goals.
Cost Comparison: Faux vs. Fresh Flowers
| Feature | Artificial Flowers | Real Flowers |
| Initial Cost | Lower overall, especially for bulk | Can be significantly higher |
| Reuse | Reusable across multiple events | One-time use |
| Shipping | Low risk of damage or wilting | Fragile, temperature-sensitive |
| Setup Time | Flexible setup timing | Must be fresh and timed precisely |
Artificial flowers are a one-time investment that can last for years if stored properly. Real flowers require refrigeration, and florists often charge extra for arrangements, transport, and same-day setup.
Visual Style and Aesthetic Considerations
Modern artificial flowers are designed with high realism. Silk, latex, and foam blooms now mimic petal textures and hues nearly perfectly. They also photograph beautifully, especially when combined with lush greenery or creative containers.
Real flowers still have an unmatched scent and delicate movement that some couples or clients may prefer. However, they are more prone to wilting, bruising, and seasonal availability issues.
Enhance the look even further by pairing these prints with a statement red tablecloth to ground your setup in rich, romantic color.
Best Use Cases:
- Artificial: Budget weddings, destination events, high-heat outdoor venues, or rentals.
- Real: Small luxury gatherings, floral-focused themes, or intimate ceremonies.
Durability and Flexibility
Artificial blooms hold up under almost any condition. They don’t wilt, shed pollen, or bruise, making them ideal for all-day events, long shipping durations, or multi-use event rentals. You can prep them days ahead of time without refrigeration.
Fresh flowers need to be kept in water or misted regularly. Hot, humid, or windy weather can damage petals and shorten their lifespan. Plus, real flowers are subject to market fluctuations and seasonal limits.
Sustainability and Waste
Faux flowers, when reused or rented out multiple times, can reduce waste. Many event professionals now offer flower rental programs to make this option even more sustainable. On the other hand, real flowers often end up as waste after the event, though some choose to compost or donate them.
How to Combine Both for Best Results
Mixing real and artificial flowers allows you to maximize your budget and visual impact. For example:
- Use artificial flowers for high-up arrangements or backdrop installations where scent isn’t noticed.
- Incorporate real blooms for personal bouquets, centerpieces, or close-up areas.
This hybrid approach keeps your setup fresh and budget-friendly.
Recommended Products from CV Linens™
- Foam Rose Stems – Ideal for floral backdrops and centerpieces
- Silk Flower Backdrops – Pre-arranged floral walls in various styles
- Arch Backdrop Covers – Perfect for layering florals over Chiara frames
- Wedding Centerpieces – Add florals to metal, crystal, or acrylic bases for height and impact
FAQs: Artificial vs. Real Flowers for Events
1. Do artificial flowers look tacky in wedding decor?
Not at all. High-quality faux flowers today are crafted with realistic textures and colors. When styled properly, they can be just as stunning as fresh arrangements.
2. Are real flowers better for photos?
Both work well in photos. The key is lighting and arrangement. Artificial flowers hold their shape and color longer, which is helpful for long events or staged shoots.
3. Can I mix real and fake flowers in the same arrangement?
Yes. This is a popular strategy among event designers. Use faux blooms for volume and fresh flowers for focal points like bouquets or table centers.
4. How should I store artificial flowers after an event?
Keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Use storage boxes or plastic bins with dividers to maintain shape and prevent dust.
5. What flowers are best to buy fake instead of real?
Hydrangeas, roses, and peonies tend to have high-quality faux alternatives. These are great for volume-based arrangements and walls.
