Controversial Topic: Fresh vs. Faux Flowers – Do Fresh Flowers Really Elevate An Event?

A hush fell over the room as attendees leaned in, captivated by the delicate textures and vibrant hues before them. The scent of fresh roses, eucalyptus, and hydrangeas filled the air.

Then, one of the attendees turned to me and said, "Now I get it. This is what fake flowers are missing— they really do feel and smell amazing."

This may be one reason why I believe fresh flowers will always hold a premium place in event design.

Would I Ever Use Fake Flowers?

If you're wondering if I'd ever use faux flowers, well I'll be honest, the answer is "yes" but, only in certain circumstances. You see, there are some pretty specific cases where artificial greenery and silk flowers may be a better solution instead of delicate blooms or hefty foliage. Especially in tricky environments and presentations.

For example; Consider a high, ceiling installation where having a water source would be difficult or too heavy to use. Now, there are a lot of flowers and greenery that are hearty enough to last and look exquisite (especially with the right processing and care) but if the look requires a more delicate flower that needs a lot of hydration to prevent wilting then this might be a job for faux flowers.

Also, dried flowers and natural materials (dried pods, dried fruit, etc.) and even other types of non-floral elements such as candles, decorative theme accents, and props also offer great options too. Speaking of props, another reason I'd consider using artificial flowers is for displays and props. Especially for re-usable floral products, repeatable (copy/paste) designs, and long-term and even permanent displays. This is one of the reasons why (as of the time of this article) the "Greenery Wall" trend is still having a moment.

That being said, let me clarify something. When I started my business in 2006 I was actually terrified of fresh flowers.  I mean, after all, they're "alive". As a floral designer, your task is not only to create unique, expressive, and artistic designs using flowers as your "artistic medium" but also to act as your flower's caregiver. Taking the proper steps to help them live long and show up beautifully.

It wasn't until I earned my 1st Certification in Floral Design that I realized the process wasn't that scary. I also learned how confidently I could prepare and use fresh flowers to create living floral art. That's part of the skill and magic of floral designing - creating arrangements that would continue to thrive, last, and showcase their gorgeous aesthetic.

Why Faux Flowers Fall Short

Artificial flowers (silk, plastic, etc.) have come a long way over the years, and I understand the appeal—they seem convenient, last “forever,” and don’t require care. But when it comes to creating truly breathtaking events, they simply can’t compete with the real thing.

🚫 Lack of Authenticity: Fake flowers may look nice in photos, but up close? They lack the soft movement, fragrance, and delicate details that make real flowers so special.

🚫 Plastic & Wasteful: Most artificial flowers are made of synthetic materials that don’t biodegrade, meaning they end up in landfills after events.

🚫 Flat & Stiff: Unlike fresh flowers, which naturally shift and bloom throughout an event, artificial flowers remain rigid, often looking staged and lifeless.

At our workshop, we gave attendees the chance to work with real flowers—touching, arranging, and designing without limits. The excitement was undeniable!

Why Fresh Flowers Are Really Unmatched

When planning an event, your floral choices should enhance the atmosphere, create an emotional connection, and leave a lasting impression. Here’s why fresh florals are the way to go:

✅ A Sensory Experience: There’s nothing quite like the delicate fragrance of garden roses or the fresh scent of eucalyptus drifting through a venue.

✅ Creative & Unique Options: If you're the type of person who wants something different, on-trend colors, or flexible, fun shapes and textures to reflect your style - fresh flowers can offer a wider variety.

✅ Natural & Sustainable: Unlike plastic-based faux flowers, fresh florals can be locally sourced and composted after use, making them eco-friendly.

✅ Symbolism & Meaning: Flowers have long been used to represent love, celebration, and emotion. The presence of fresh flowers makes a moment feel special and sacred.

The Takeaway From Our Workshop

At the end of the workshop, I asked attendees to reflect on their experience. The overwhelming response? They had fallen in love with the art of fresh flower arranging.

One attendee even said:

"I didn't realize how much fresh flowers could make a difference until today. There’s just no comparison."

This is why I do what I do. Real flowers bring life, emotion, and artistry to every event.

If you want to create stunning, meaningful floral designs that capture the essence of real beauty, join us at our next workshop!

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