Are silk flowers cheaper and just as pretty as real ones?

 Silk flowers may be less expensive than real flowers, however much of the expense is in the labor if you have a florist arrange them. So if you are comfortable arranging them yourself, you can probably save a bundle. You could also consider substituting silk exotics (like orchids) for real ones and have the florist make combination bouquets. Some silk flowers look as pretty as the real thing and it's hard to tell the difference. Also, if you have a silk bouquet, it will still look the same for years to come, whereas real flowers will need to be preserved or dried or thrown out.

There are a variety of silk flowers and some are better made and look more realistic than others. Some of this depends on price and some on where they are manufactured. So, check around for high quality silk flowers if you are going that route.