What is a crucial step in preparing flower arrangements for an event?

Pre-conditioning and hydrating the flowers is vital because this process ensures that the flowers are in optimal condition before they are arranged for the event. Hydrating helps to rejuvenate the flowers by allowing them to absorb water and nutrients, which enhances their longevity and appearance. Proper hydration can significantly improve the overall quality of the arrangement, giving it vibrant color and longevity, which is especially crucial for events where the arrangements need to last throughout the duration.

Making arrangements on-site, while sometimes necessary, does not inherently enhance the flowers' freshness if they are not pre-conditioned beforehand. Ignoring temperature changes can lead to wilted or damaged flowers, which would negatively impact the arrangement. Using only artificial flowers eliminates the need for these considerations but does not apply to scenarios where fresh flowers are preferred or required for their beauty and scent. Thus, the focus on pre-conditioning and hydrating emphasizes the importance of preparation to achieve the best results in floral arrangements for events.