Handcrafted ‘fuzzy wire’ flowers alternative to fresh blooms amid holiday price hike
By NiΓ±a Jonalyn Gambe-Diamante
BUTUAN CITY(PIA) — As prices of fresh flowers rise ahead of the All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day commemoration, cheaper handcrafted “fuzzy wire” floral arrangements are emerging as a practical and affordable alternative for many consumers.
Local vendors and artisans are seeing increased demand for these decorative arrangements made from bendable wires wrapped in yarn or fabric. The materials are not affected by the seasonal price surge, making them a cost-effective option for cemetery offerings and home displays.
“We try to keep the prices of our floral arrangements affordable by using fewer fresh flowers since the prices [of fresh flowers] have already gone up nearing the holidays,” said Dafnie Pacalles, a flower shop owner in San Francisco, Agusan del Sur.
“Our buyers usually spend 150 pesos max per floral arrangement especially since they need to buy multiple arrangements for several departed loved ones. Which is why we give them the option for fresh flowers or fuzzy wire flowers instead, which are cheaper since the materials are not affected with the price increase,” she added.
Prices of fuzzy wire flowers vary depending on size and design: one piece typically costs ₱80 to ₱90, a single flower in a pot ranges from ₱100 to ₱120, while larger arrangements with multiple flowers are priced between ₱150 and ₱250.
The shift reflects a growing preference for reusable and longer-lasting dΓ©cor, especially among budget-conscious families. Markets across the region have noted the trend, with fuzzy wire bouquets gaining popularity for their durability and festive appeal.
This development highlights how communities are adapting to inflation while preserving meaningful traditions during the Undas season. (NJGD/PIA Caraga with a report from PTV Agusan del Sur; Photo courtesy of Jennie Mae Espada)
