Once considered exclusive to garden arrangements, flowers are now valued for their authentic qualities which can be effectively utilised across numerous avenues to provide a visual impact. Retail stores and interior designers are quick to realise and appreciate the aesthetic qualities provided by flowers that are available within numerous product types, such as bouquets and arrangement. A wedding venue is an archetypal example of an event whereby flowers accompany the overall décor and occasion, as sprigs are available in a multitude of colours and arrangements to look perfect within a chapel or wedding reception. Although colour and type of flower are important considerations when purchasing or integrating flowers into a retail store or wedding, the first decision is whether to choose real or artificial flowers to provide the required visual impact.
Although early versions of imitation flowers were a stark contrast to the real version, the lines of realism between the two have become blurred, as modern silk flowers are equally real in appearance. Artificial alternatives are available in the same arrangements and colours as real flowers that offer similar benefits within a store or wedding venue. The prime difference between the two options is durability; while real flowers only remain in prime condition for a few days before wilting and losing quality, artificial flowers last considerably longer and cannot be easily damaged due to the materials used to create each product.
Another essential reason why interior designers and couples choose imitation flowers over the real version is availability of particular floral arrangements. Due to seasonal conditions, certain flowers are only available for an exclusive period of time due to their longevity and suitability within each respective season. As sourcing flowers can be expensive, particularly during the winter months, silk flowers are ‘in season’ throughout the year which provide flexibility on an annual basis to purchase the flowers of personal choice. Additionally, the longevity factor provided by imitation flowers ensure store designers do not have to concern themselves with continual replacements, whilst newlyweds can take away bouquets and floral arrangements as keep-sakes which illustrates why many individuals opt for artificial over real flowers.