I've used real fern before for our clan members at one of the highland games, and they did indeed dry out and wilt by the end of the day.

If you try something like Hobby Lobby or some other big outfit selling aritficial flowers, you can probably find most plants represented.

Panache makes a good point with his suggestion for keeping things damps. And his idea with also keep the sticky mess from getting all over your bonnet. Pine is pretty nasty with the turpintine running out.

If I were you, I'd go for it. In fact, I think I'll try it myself next time.