Choosing your wedding flowers is one of the most exciting—and sometimes stressful—decisions you'll make. If you're planning a wedding in Kelowna or the Okanagan, you've probably noticed that floral costs can vary dramatically depending on what you choose. At Pickadilly's, Shannon works with brides daily who are deciding between traditional fresh flowers and premium Real Touch faux florals. Both can be beautiful, but they offer very different experiences. In this guide, we'll break down the differences, costs, and benefits to help you make the best choice for your big day.
What Are Real Touch Wedding Flowers?
Real Touch flowers are high-quality faux florals designed to look and feel incredibly realistic. Unlike traditional silk flowers, modern Real Touch florals have natural texture and movement, photograph beautifully, and mimic real blooms almost perfectly. Many clients are surprised they can't tell the difference—especially in photos. This makes them a fantastic option for brides who want the look of fresh flowers without the worry of wilting or weather damage.
Fresh Wedding Flowers: The Classic Choice
Fresh flowers have always been the traditional option for weddings. They offer natural fragrance, organic one-of-a-kind arrangements, and seasonal beauty. However, they also come with limitations—especially in a place like the Okanagan, where heat and sourcing can affect quality and pricing. Fresh flowers are sensitive to temperature, must be prepared within days of the wedding, and are typically single-use. For outdoor weddings, they can wilt quickly, which is a major concern for summer brides.
The Cost Difference: Real Touch vs Fresh
One of the biggest deciding factors for brides is cost. In Canada, wedding flower budgets can vary widely. Many couples spend $1,000–$2,000 on the lower end, while more elevated weddings often reach $2,500–$7,000 or more. Luxury floral designs can climb significantly higher depending on scale. At Pickadilly's, Shannon has seen firsthand how quickly fresh flower costs can add up. For example, fresh floral arches can cost $1,000–$3,000+, centrepieces $100–$300 each, and bouquets $250–$400.
With Pickadilly's Real Touch floral rentals, couples can achieve a similar elevated look with more control over their budget. Typical pricing includes floral pillars at $700–$900, centrepieces at $18–$65, and bouquets starting at $125. This allows many couples to create a full, impactful design while saving thousands—without compromising on the overall look and feel. If you're looking for affordable wedding flowers, Real Touch rentals are a game-changer.
Real Touch vs Fresh: What's the Difference?
Fresh Flowers
Fresh flowers are best for traditional weddings, couples who love natural fragrance, and highly seasonal designs. However, they are sensitive to heat and weather, must be prepared within days of the wedding, and are typically single-use. If you're planning an outdoor summer wedding, fresh flowers may not hold up well.
Real Touch Flowers (Pickadilly's Specialty)
Real Touch flowers are best for luxury designs on a realistic budget, outdoor weddings (they're heat-safe), and brides who want consistency and peace of mind. Benefits include no wilting, no weather stress, and you know exactly what your flowers will look like ahead of time. They're also reusable and more sustainable, making them a great choice for eco-conscious couples. They're ideal for large installations like floral pillars, arches, and aisle flowers.
Practical Tips for Choosing Your Wedding Flowers
- **Consider your venue**: For outdoor weddings, Real Touch flowers are a safer bet. They won't wilt in the sun or droop in the heat.
- **Think about your budget**: If you want a high-end look without the high-end price, Real Touch rentals offer significant savings.
- **Look at photos**: Ask to see real wedding photos of Real Touch arrangements. You'll likely be amazed at how realistic they look.
- **Mix and match**: Some couples choose fresh flowers for bouquets and Real Touch for large installations like arches or backdrop walls. This can balance cost and fragrance.
- **Plan ahead**: With Real Touch, you can book early and know exactly what you're getting. No last-minute surprises.
Wedding Venue Decoration Ideas
Real Touch flowers open up a world of wedding venue decoration ideas. From grand floral pillars to cascading sweetheart table backdrops, you can create a stunning atmosphere without worrying about freshness. Use them for ceremony arches, aisle markers, hanging installations, and table centrepieces. Because they're reusable, you can also repurpose them from ceremony to reception, maximizing your investment. Whether you're aiming for a romantic garden vibe or a modern minimalist look, silk flowers wedding decor can be tailored to your vision.
Conclusion
Choosing between Real Touch and fresh wedding flowers is a personal decision. Fresh flowers offer fragrance and tradition, but Real Touch florals provide durability, cost savings, and peace of mind. At Pickadilly's, Shannon and her team are ready to help you explore both options and design the perfect floral look for your Kelowna or Okanagan wedding. Whether you're dreaming of an outdoor ceremony or an elegant indoor reception, there's a solution that fits your style and budget. Reach out today to start planning your dream wedding flowers!
Ready to see the difference for yourself? Visit Pickadilly's to browse our Real Touch collection and get inspired.