That is...unless your chosen style or color isn't in season. Or they may just not be in stock. You may also have to add in the extra cost of shipping the flowers you want, having your florist working over time to get all one zillion of your arrangements done within two days of the ceremony to be sure the flowers don't fall apart of wilt or both before your big day. If it sounds like a hassle, that's because it's a hassle. Fresh flowers aren't cheap, portable, or made to last.

Luckily, artificial flowers are now more beautiful and natural looking than ever. They are becoming widely used in wedding ceremonies for a variety of reasons:

• No sacrifices need to be made. Silk bridal flowers are now equally as lovely as real ones, but without the headache.

• New trends in wedding planning, like getting married in the winter with a tropical theme, have led to many couples opting for silk flowers. They are always in season.

• You can choose any flower you desire to fit your own special purpose. Each flower has a meaning and you won't be limited by season or area of the country you live in. Mix and matching flowers to create a more personalized sentiment also becomes possible. Each flower has a meaning, and you can combine flowers to say just what you feel.

• Florists have more control over the flowers when using silk, so fewer flowers are needed. If an arrangement required three dozen real flowers, for example, only two dozen silk flowers would be needed.

• Arrangements can be created weeks in advance, giving the couple a chance to view everything and be sure it is to their liking.

• Artificial wedding flowers can be saved forever. Your wedding party can have souvenirs and they'll stay beautiful. In fact, many florists will use your wedding flowers and create new arrangements for everyday use.

When using silk flowers for you ceremony keep a few things in mind before you make your selection. With all the options in flower combinations you'll want to be sure of each one's meaning in combination with the others. Your florist may be able to help you, or you can check out a book on the topic. When shopping, you may also want to bring along a real flower to hold up to the one you are considering to be sure that it looks authentic.

You truly can get all the beauty of fresh flowers at your wedding without the trouble or expense. Quality silk wedding flower arrangements will perfectly compliment your special day, and many days to come.