Dried vs. Fresh Flowers for Wedding: Which One Is More Budget Friendly?

Weddings are the event of a lifetime, a celebration that marks the beginning of a new journey together. Yet, amidst the joy and anticipation, the reality of planning often comes with its fair share of decisions and expenses. One of the most important choices you'll face is selecting the right flowers for your special day. 

Flowers not only add beauty and ambiance to your celebrations but also reflect your personal style and the essence of your celebration. But worry not, as you don't have to compromise on the splendor of your day due to budget constraints. 

We're here to guide you through choosing dried flowers vs. fresh flowers. Let's explore how each option can bring your dream wedding to life.

Dried Flowers vs. Fresh Flowers: The Pros and Cons

As just highlighted above, choosing between dried and fresh flowers is a decision that affects not just the aesthetics of your big day but also the logistics and overall budget. Each option comes with its own set of advantages and challenges. 

For instance, designs with only dried flowers offer enduring beauty and a unique, rustic charm that can be quite appealing, especially for couples looking for an eco-friendly or vintage vibe. On the other hand, fresh flowers bring a sense of traditional elegance and natural fragrance that can make your wedding feel truly magical. 

To help you weigh your options, we've compiled a comprehensive comparison of the pros and cons of both dried and fresh blooms.

Dried Flowers vs. Fresh Flowers: Cost Comparison

So, we've explored the pros and cons of both fresh and dried blooms, but when planning a wedding, sometimes it all comes down to the numbers. Let's look at the difference in prices between the two to see which option might be the best fit for you.

Initial Costs

The cost of fresh flowers can vary widely depending on the type you're looking for, seasonality, and location. Additionally, fresh blooms typically require professional arrangement close to the event date to ensure they look their best, adding to the labor costs. On the other hand, generally, dried florals are more cost-effective upfront. Since they are not subject to the same seasonality constraints, they also can be prepared well in advance.

Here is an estimate of what you can expect to pay [1]: 

For a more in-depth dive, check out our discussion on ‘Average Cost of Flowers for a Wedding,’ where we explore the factors influencing floral budgets and how to achieve your dream wedding aesthetics without breaking the bank.

Maintenance and Longevity

• Fresh Flowers: While beautiful, they often have a limited lifespan and require careful maintenance leading up to the ceremony to keep them looking vibrant. This can include refrigeration and water, which may add to the overall cost, especially if the venue lacks these facilities.

• Dried Flowers: Dried arrangements require no special maintenance once they are prepared, and their longevity means they can be purchased and arranged well in advance. This not only cuts down on maintenance costs but also allows for potential reuse or resale.

Overall Value

• Fresh Flowers: The value of fresh flowers lies in their unparalleled beauty and the traditional feel they bring. For many, this justifies the higher cost, especially for those who have dreamt of a ceremony filled with lush, fresh blooms.

• Dried Flowers: Dried flowers offer excellent overall value, particularly for couples looking for a cost-effective, sustainable, and unique option. Their longevity also means they can serve as keepsakes or home decor long after the day, extending their value beyond the event itself.

Maximizing Your Wedding Flower Budget

With the right strategies, you can create a breathtaking floral backdrop without stretching your budget too thin. So, whichever way you're leaning, here are some tips to help you get the most out of your budget:

1. Choose Seasonal Fresh Flowers

Opting for flowers that are in season at the time of year as your wedding is a smart way to reduce costs. Seasonal blooms are not only more affordable but also at their peak beauty, ensuring vibrant and fresh arrangements. Your florist can recommend the best options that fit your theme and color scheme.

2. Incorporate More Greenery and Filler 

Greenery and filler can add volume and texture to your arrangements without the high cost of premium blooms. These elements can stretch your floral budget further while still creating lush, full bouquets and centerpieces. Consider using eucalyptus, ferns, baby's breath, or other fillers to enhance your floral designs without breaking the bank.

3. Discuss With Your Florist About Using a Mix of Dried and Fresh Flowers

So, while dried flowers are cheaper than fresh, deciding between them doesn't have to be an either/or situation. Many couples choose to blend both, creating a visually stunning mix that leverages the best of both worlds. Dried florals can add texture and depth to arrangements, while fresh blooms bring in a burst of color and fragrance. This approach not only creates a unique aesthetic but can also help balance your decor budget.

Mastering Your Wedding Budget With Hidden Botanics