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How to Choose Your Wedding Florals: Fresh vs. Dried Flowers

When it comes to wedding florals, one of the big decisions a bride has to make is whether to use fresh or dried flowers. Each option has its own unique benefits and things to consider, so it's important to consider which one will be the best fit for your celebration. I've partnered with Virginia wedding florist, Aster & Bee Floral Design to compare fresh and dried flowers to help you make a decision that best matches your vision for your big day!

Dried florals created by Aster & Bee Floral Design for a Virginia Beach Elopement
A dried floral bouquet designed by Aster & Bee Floral Design for a Virginia Beach Elopement

Should I Use Fresh Flowers For My Wedding?


Fresh flowers are the traditional choice for weddings, and for good reason. They offer a classic, elegant look that's hard to beat. Plus, with so many different types of flowers available in every color of the rainbow, you're sure to find the perfect ones to match your wedding's color scheme and vibe!

Couple elopes in Virginia Beach
Aster & Bee Floral Design creates matching pieces for arches, floor arrangements, bouquets, and boutonnieres (with magnetic pins) to create a cohesive and aesthetic look for your wedding or elopement.

Benefits of Fresh Florals for Your Wedding

One of the biggest advantages of fresh flowers is their scent. The sweet fragrance of fresh blooms can add a lovely touch to your wedding atmosphere. Plus, they are more pliable and easier to work with for flower arrangements.


A bride holding a bouquet of dried flowers while standing on the beach.

Another advantage of fresh flowers is their natural beauty. Unlike dried flowers, fresh flowers have a softness and movement that makes them perfect for creating romantic and whimsical floral arrangements. They are also great for decorating your cake in a fun and fresh way.

Fresh floral cake for an intimate elopement
Ask for extra floral pieces to decorate your cake! Wildflower Confectionery is a talented, local cake artist who uses fresh florals in her gorgeous designs.


Consider Lifespan for Fresh Wedding Florals

Fresh flowers are more fragile and prone to wilting or dying if not handled properly. They also tend to be more expensive than dried flowers, especially if you are using rare or exotic varieties.


Jessica from Aster & Bee Floral Design is a professional florist who processes each flower that she includes in her designs. Her process helps the flowers remain vibrant and perky throughout your whole wedding day. She even provides transportation and installation to make sure that every flower is handled properly and will look its best.


What about using dried florals for weddings?

Dried flowers are becoming increasingly popular for weddings, as they offer a more unique and rustic look. They are also a great option for brides who want to keep their flowers as a keepsake after the wedding, as they can be preserved and used for years to come.

Dried flower bouquet
Dried florals offer unique colors and styles that are especially perfect for boho brides.

Benefits of Dried Florals

One of the biggest advantages of dried flowers is their longevity. Unlike fresh flowers, which typically only last for a few days or a week, dried flowers can last for years if stored properly. They also require less maintenance and attention, making them a great option for brides who want to focus on other aspects of their wedding.


Another advantage of fresh flowers is their versatility. They can be used in a variety of ways, from bouquets and centerpieces to boutonnieres.

Bride sits in basket chair while holding dried flower bouquet from Aster & Bee Floral
Dried flowers are easy to transport for adventure elopements and micro weddings.

Consider Arrangements for Dried Flowers

Dried flowers tend to lack the fragrance and natural beauty of fresh flowers. They also tend to be more brittle and difficult to work with, which can make creating arrangements a bit more challenging.


Aster & Bee Floral Design is a wiz when it comes to dried florals—with a mix of fresh and dried florals, they can create your ideal wedding flower arrangements!


What Wedding Florals are Right for Me?


When deciding between fresh and dried flowers, there are a few key factors to consider: style, budget, longevity, and availability.

Style

Think about the overall look and feel you want for your wedding. If you're going for a classic and elegant vibe, fresh flowers are probably the way to go. If you're looking for a more rustic or bohemian feel, dried flowers might be a better fit.


Budget

Consider how much you are willing to spend on flowers. Fresh flowers tend to be more expensive than dried flowers, so if you're on a tight budget, dried flowers might be a better option.


Longevity

Think about what you want to do with your flowers after the wedding. If you want to preserve them as a keepsake, dried flowers are the way to go. If you're not worried about keeping them or want to dry and preserve them in a unique way, fresh flowers are a great option for their natural beauty and fragrance.


Availability

Finally, consider what types of flowers are available in your area and during your wedding season. Some flowers may only be available at certain times of the year, which could impact your decision. Aster & Bee has access to an incredible wholesaler with a huge variety of options, so she can advise you on what flowers are best for each time of year and location.


Ultimately, the choice between fresh and dried flowers is up to what works best with the vision for your wedding. No matter what you decide, Aster & Bee Floral Designs is an expert in making your wedding floral dreams a reality.


Inquire with Aster & Bee Floral Designs today and place your wedding floral dreams in the hands of an expert.


Additional Vendors Shown:

Photography: Jessica Erin Photos

Hair & Makeup: Anywhere Beauty by Shae

Dress: Here & Now Bridal

Cake: Wildflower Confectionery

Arch & Luxury Picnic: Moonfly Events

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