We need to talk about the biggest rookie mistake we see in the Northern Nevada DIY flower world.

You’re scrolling Pinterest, you see a massive, gorgeous lily in a bridal bouquet, and you immediately add "Lilies" to your wholesale cart. But here is the gatekept secret of the floral industry: Not all lilies are created equal. If you don't know the difference between the two major varieties, you could end up blowing your wedding budget - or worse, giving your entire wedding party a massive headache from an unexpected scent in your Lake Tahoe reception hall.

Let’s break down the only two lilies you actually need to know about: Asiatic vs. Oriental.

1. The Asiatic Lily: The Scent-Free Workhorse

If you are sensitive to smells or working with a tight budget for your Reno event, the Asiatic lily is your best friend.

• The Vibe: Smooth, sleek, and colorful. Notice how the petals on these are very, very smooth.
• The Colors: These usually come in solid, vibrant colors like yellow, orange, white, and a deep red that actually leans more toward a rich burgundy.
• The "Smell Test": Here is the kicker, they don’t have one. Asiatic lilies don't really have any sort of fragrance to them. This makes them the perfect centerpiece flower because they won't compete with the smell of the catering at your venue.
• The Price: Because they have a smaller blossom, they tend to be less expensive than their oriental counterparts. Perfect for stretching your bulk flower budget!

Insider Florist Note: A lot of people mistakenly call these "Tiger Lilies" or confuse them with daylilies, but they are technically Asiatic!

2. The Oriental Lily: The Fragrant Showstopper

If you want main-character energy for your bridal bouquet, this is your flower.

• The Vibe: Massive, textured, and dramatic. Unlike the smooth Asiatic, Oriental lilies have really beautiful ruffled edges. Even when they are only partially open, you can tell they are going to get quite large.
• The Colors: You’ll typically find these in solid white (like the famous Casablanca variety) or solid pink. For your brand aesthetic, we custom-grow specific ruffled white and cream varieties with deep internal orange veining and tips to integrate perfectly.
• The "Smell Test": They are highly fragrant. In fact, people specifically purchase them for their smell, and they have even been used to make perfumes.

The Final Verdict: Which One Do You Choose?

Ready to start designing?

Whether you want the scent-free pop of an Asiatic or the ruffled luxury of an Oriental, we have them straight from the farm. If you are planning a wedding or event in the Reno, Sparks, or Lake Tahoe area, skip the retail markups.