Faux Real: Using Fake Florals, Foods, and Fabrics to Fool (and Delight) the Eye

August 6, 2025 Jessica Stewart

Photo by Vidal Balielo Jr.: https://www.pexels.com/photo/cake-and-dessert-at-a-wedding-reception-14457533/

The visual appeal of your event is almost always the first thing guests notice, so it’s essential to get it right. Florals, foods, and fabrics are all integral parts of your event, but there may be times when it makes sense to swap the real thing for faux alternatives. Fortunately, there are more ways than ever to go faux. Try using fake florals, foods, and fabrics to fool (and delight) the eye at your next event.

Why Go Faux?

As an event planner, there are many reasons you may want to go faux when it comes to your event decor. Here are some of the most common:

    • Sustainability–faux materials can be used multiple times.
    • Simplicity–faux materials require less maintenance and are often easier to set up.
    • Reducing costs–in the long run, it’s cheaper to use faux materials that can be reused.
    • Adding the wow factor–guests enjoy being wowed at how realistic some faux decor is.
    • Keepsakes–rather than throwing out the event decor, faux materials can be turned into keepsakes for events like weddings and milestone birthday parties.

When Florals Are Better Faux

Fresh floral displays will always have a place at events, but there are times when it’s better to use faux florals. Remember, it’s always possible to mix faux and fresh flowers, so you can find the perfect displays for your event. Consider using faux florals when:

    • Creating permanent displays, such as floral walls and arches. These are easy to transport from one event to the next and can be customized with fresh flowers for each client.

    • Sustainability is a goal. Whether you want your business to be more sustainable, or your client wants a focus on sustainability, faux florals fit the bill.

    • Your client wants keepsakes. Faux bouquets, centerpieces, and wooden roses make excellent keepsakes that will last for years.

    • You need to keep costs low. Fresh florals come with a hefty price tag. Faux florals are more budget-friendly. 

    • You want to wow your guest with treats that fool the eye. Cakes with floral decorations, cupcakes made to look like flowers, and other floral-inspired treats are always a hit, especially when they look like real flowers. Your guests will be amazed that the flowers they were sure were real are actually dessert!

Faux Food? Faux Real!

Faux food also has a place at events, but be sure it’s not in a place where guests are tempted to take a bite! Instead, use faux food judiciously to enhance decor without worrying about perishable foodstuffs. Some great ways to incorporate faux food into your events include:

    • Fabric pumpkins for autumn themes
    • Faux cranberries in winter decor
    • Food-shaped candles that double as party favors or prizes
    • Faux coconuts and pineapples as decor for a tropical theme
    • As a visually-appealing display to accent the real food being served. 

Faux Fabrics Are In

Faux fabrics should also be in your toolbox as an event planner, especially since many faux fabrics are in demand today. Faux fabrics often provide low-cost alternatives that are easy to maintain, sustainable, and animal-friendly. Here are some excellent faux fabrics that fool the eye:

    • Faux furs instead of real
    • Vegan leather in place of animal-derived leathers
    • Satin instead of silk
    • Vinyl instead of fabric for outdoor events
    • Faux denim to cover large areas for Western themes

Bonus: Use Fake Florals, Foods, and Fabrics in Your Expo Booth

The Event Planner Expo offers an unparalleled opportunity to showcase your event planning business and establish yourself as a key player in the industry. The decor you choose helps your booth stand out from the crowd. 

Faux florals, foods, and fabrics are the perfect choice to create a stunning display you don’t have to worry about maintaining during the Expo. Instead, you’re free to meet other industry pros, make connections, and maybe even score a sponsorship or two! 

Reserve your booth today!

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