How to Match Your Fresh Flowers to Hired Décor

As a florist, I often get asked by couples and venues how to mix fresh flowers with artificial décor. Whether it’s an arch, a backdrop, or blossom trees at a venue like The Mill Barns, the goal is always the same: everything should look cohesive, natural, and picture-perfect.

I’ve seen a few common mistakes along the way, so I wanted to share my top tips to help you get it right... and ensure your fresh florals complement your décor beautifully.

1.  Colour and Flower Type Matter

   One of the biggest mistakes I see is a mismatch in colours or flower types. For example, your bouquet might have soft pink roses and lush greenery, but the artificial arch has a completely different shade of pink and no greenery at all.

   
   

   To avoid this, share photos of your décor with your florist in advance. We can then choose fresh flowers that either match perfectly or blend seamlessly with the faux elements. The right balance makes all the difference on the day — both in photos and in person.

2. Blend Fresh and Faux Elements

   A simple trick that always works is adding real greenery or blooms into the artificial installations. This creates cohesion between fresh bouquets, ceremony florals, and fake décor pieces.

   
   

   For example, if your aisle arch or backdrop is faux, adding clusters of fresh flowers in matching shades instantly lifts the design, making it feel more luxurious, romantic, and natural. This approach also keeps your photos looking lush, without any awkward gaps between fresh and fake. Check out our blog here where you can see a floral mandap that used exactly this technique.

3. Plan for Photography

   Think about where your fresh flowers will be most visible on camera. Guests will spend the most time looking at ceremony and reception focal points, so that’s where the blending really matters.

   
   

   By strategically placing fresh blooms near key photo spots and integrating them with faux pieces, you can make the entire décor feel cohesive, luxurious, and perfectly thought-through.

Mixing fresh flowers with artificial décor doesn’t have to be stressful — with a little planning and collaboration, it can look seamless and beautiful. Remember: share décor photos, bring samples, match tones, and blend fresh with faux elements for a natural, luxurious finish.

If you’re planning a wedding at a venue like The Mill Barns (or anywhere with mixed décor), I often recommend our Elopement Package — it’s perfect for couples looking for the best of both worlds: fresh, romantic florals paired seamlessly with flexible décor options.