Greenland paddle material question

I'm considering trying to make a GP to develop my currently non existent woodworking skills in preparation for trying to build a CNC kayak at some point in the future.

I'm still firmly in the research and dreaming phase - I have an Amazon list of the hand tools I think I need and am now compulsory watching and eating everything I can find about GPs. I've just had a quick look at the big box stores near me for 2"x4"x8' cedar and can only find green wood. My assumption is that I should be working with seasoned wood - is this valid or can I work with the fresh wood and accept the shrinkage?