3 Stunning Flower Dupes to Make Your Wedding Gorgeous on a Budget

Planning your dream wedding on a tight budget? You're not alone. Flowers can easily take up a significant portion of your wedding budget. But here's a secret the floral industry doesn't want you to know: there are gorgeous alternatives to expensive blooms that look just as stunning in photos and bouquets.

Just like fashion and home decor, the flower world has its own "dupes"—budget-friendly alternatives that mimic the look of pricier varieties. Whether you're DIYing your centerpieces or working with a florist who understands your budget constraints, these three flower swaps will give you the elegant look you want without the sticker shock.

Dahlia Dupe: Meet the "Bahlia" 

Dahlias are having a major moment right now. Their full, layered petals create that perfect romantic texture every bride craves. The problem? They're seasonal, temperamental, and can be costly.

Enter the Bahlia, a variety of Chrysanthemums. These sturdy beauties offer the same full, rounded shape as dahlias but at a fraction of the cost. Bahlias are available year-round, making them perfect for any wedding date. They're also incredibly hardy, meaning they'll look fresh throughout your entire celebration without wilting under pressure.

The best part? Most guests won't know the difference. In bouquets and centerpieces, Bahlias photograph beautifully and come in classic wedding colors like blush, white, and burgundy.

Alstroemeria: A Charming Alternative to Freesia with Graceful Trumpet Blooms

Freesia's delicate trumpet-shaped blooms and intoxicating fragrance make them a favorite for romantic weddings. However, their delicate nature and seasonal availability can drive costs up quickly.

Alstroemeria offers the same elegant trumpet silhouette but with superior longevity and versatility. These blooms can work as both focal flowers and fillers, giving you more bang for your buck. They're available in an incredible range of colors—from soft pastels to vibrant jewel tones—and their sturdy stems mean less waste and longer-lasting arrangements.

While you'll miss freesia's signature scent, alstroemeria's visual impact is undeniable. They photograph beautifully and create that same delicate, garden-fresh look at a much friendlier price point.

Peony Dupe: The Three-Carnation Cluster

Peonies are the ultimate wedding flower, cherished for their full, luxurious blooms that embody honor, prosperity, and romance—everything a couple dreams of for their special day. However, their availability is limited, as peonies are not in season year-round. But if you're a bride dreaming of peonies in late August, we have a hack for you.

Here's where carnations can save the day. Cluster three carnation blooms together, securing them with floral tape, and you'll create a convincing peony alternative. This technique is significantly more affordable compared to the cost of a single peony.

The three-carnation cluster provides the same full, rounded shape and soft texture that makes peonies so beloved. You can choose colors that match your wedding palette perfectly, and since carnations are available year-round, you're not limited by seasonal availability.

Smart Shopping Tips for Flower Dupes

When choosing flower alternatives, consider these factors:

Color matching: Bring photos of your inspiration flowers when shopping for dupes. This helps ensure your substitutes capture the same mood and aesthetic.

Texture variety: Mix different flower shapes and sizes to create visual interest, even when using budget blooms.

Your Wedding, Your Way

Remember, your wedding flowers should reflect your personal style, not break your budget. These gorgeous dupes prove that beautiful doesn't have to mean expensive. With smart substitutions and creative presentation, you can achieve the wedding aesthetic you've always dreamed of while keeping more money in your pocket for other priorities.

Start experimenting with these alternatives during your planning process. Many brides find that their "budget" flowers become their favorites, offering unique character that sets their wedding apart from cookie-cutter arrangements. A consultation with a FiftyFlowers consultant can also guide you in making the right flower choices, ensuring your arrangements are perfect for your big day.