The Grand Wedding Arch: Size And Style Guide

The size of your wedding arch depends on a few factors. Firstly, how do you plan to use it? Wedding arches can be used as a backdrop for photos, as a frame for the couple during their vows, or as an entrance for guests to walk through. If you're using it as an entrance, it should be at least 7 feet tall to allow guests to walk through comfortably. The width should be narrow enough that only 2 or 3 people can walk through at a time, creating a small queue of guests waiting their turn to enter.

If the arch is purely decorative and will be attached to a wall, 6 feet tall is fine. If the couple will stand under the arch, it should be tall enough that they don't brush against the decorations—around 7 to 8 feet is typical. The width should allow enough space for the couple and the officiant, usually around 6 feet.

If you're very tall, opt for an arch that's 8 feet tall so your wedding photos aren't cut off at the top of the arch. If you're short, you may want to go for a slightly shorter arch.

Height: 7-8 feet is standard, but it depends on the height of the couple and whether they'll walk through it

The height of a wedding arch depends on several factors, including its function, placement, and decorations. The standard height for a wedding arch is 7 to 8 feet, but it can be adjusted to suit the height of the couple and whether they will walk through it.

If the wedding arch will be used to frame the couple during their vows, it should be tall enough to allow for the taller person to stand comfortably without their head touching any decorations. In this case, it is recommended to adjust the height to the taller individual. For couples with a significant height difference, it is generally advised to prioritise the taller person when determining the height of the arch.

If the wedding arch will serve as an entrance for guests, it should be at least 7 feet tall to allow guests to walk through comfortably. A height of 7 to 8 feet is recommended to ensure ease of movement and a graceful appearance.

On the other hand, if the wedding arch is purely decorative and no one will be walking through it, a height of 6 feet is sufficient. This option is suitable when the arch is attached to a wall as a backdrop for photos or when it is used to frame a view.

It is important to consider the decorations when determining the final height of the arch. If you plan to add hanging or draping embellishments, extra height may be required to prevent guests from hitting the decorations. Additionally, test the arch with the couple to ensure that the height is comfortable and proportional.

Width: 4-6 feet is typical, but it should be wider if multiple people will walk through it at once

The width of a wedding arch is typically around 4 to 6 feet, but this can vary depending on its intended use and the number of people walking through it. If you plan to have multiple people walking through the arch at once, it's a good idea to make it wider than the standard size.

A wedding arch with a width of 4 to 6 feet is a common choice as it allows for a small queue to form, creating a sense of anticipation for guests entering the ceremony space. This size ensures that guests enter in a controlled manner, allowing them to appreciate the arch and any decorations it may have. It also provides an ideal framing for photographs, capturing the couple or group within the arch without requiring the photographer to stand too far away.

However, if you anticipate having several people walk through the arch simultaneously, such as during a grand entrance or exit, consider making it wider. A wider arch can accommodate more people side by side, ensuring that everyone can pass through comfortably without feeling cramped. This is especially important if you want to create a dramatic effect with a group of people walking through together.

When deciding on the width of your wedding arch, it's essential to consider the overall flow and logistics of your event. A wider arch may be more suitable if you expect a large number of guests or want to facilitate a smooth and efficient entrance or exit. Additionally, the height of the arch should complement its width. A taller arch can accommodate taller decorations and provide ample headroom for taller individuals or those wearing statement headpieces.

In summary, while the standard width of 4 to 6 feet is typical for a wedding arch, don't be afraid to adjust the dimensions to suit your specific needs. A wider arch can enhance the guest experience and create a more inclusive atmosphere, ensuring that your special day is memorable for everyone involved.

Decorative use: If it's purely decorative, it can be shorter, around 6 feet

Wedding arches are a pivotal feature of the ceremony and can beautifully enhance any outdoor wedding setting. The size of a wedding arch can vary depending on its use and position.

If the arch is purely decorative, it can be shorter, around 6 feet. This is a good option if the couple will not be walking through the arch or standing under it. A 6-foot arch can be attached to a wall as a backdrop to the couple, creating a beautiful frame for photos.

When deciding on the size of a decorative arch, it is important to consider the height of the couple and any decorations that will be added to the arch. The arch should be tall enough so that any embellishments, such as flowers or balloons, do not touch the couple's heads.

Additionally, when using a decorative arch, it is important to plan its placement carefully. If the arch will be affixed to a wall, consider the height at which it will be placed and how it will frame the couple. Marking the wall with chalk and visualising how the photos will look can be helpful.

Overall, a 6-foot wedding arch can be a beautiful and functional option for purely decorative purposes, but careful consideration of its placement and decorations is key to ensuring it complements the couple and the venue.

Position: It can be used as a backdrop or to frame a view or the couple

The positioning of your wedding arch is key to its overall impact. It can be used as a backdrop or to frame a view or the couple.

If you're tying the knot with a beautiful view, such as a beach, a lake, or a garden, you may want to position your arch so that it frames the view, enhancing the scenery and providing a wonderful vista for your guests. This works particularly well for outdoor weddings.

If you're getting married indoors, you could position the arch against a wall as a backdrop to the couple. This is a great way to create a focal point for your ceremony, especially if you're marrying in a venue that doesn't have a lot of architectural features.

Another option is to use the arch to frame the couple, either during the ceremony or just for photos. In this case, the arch might be affixed to a wall or free-standing, with the couple standing in front or underneath. This creates a beautiful, romantic setting and looks great in photos.

If you're having an outdoor wedding, you could also use the arch as an informal entrance to the ceremony area. This adds a sense of occasion as guests walk through it to take their seats, and it can be a great way to control the flow of guests and create a sense of anticipation.

The size of your arch will depend on its position and purpose. If it's purely decorative and attached to a wall, it can be smaller, around 6 feet tall. If the couple or guests will be standing under it, it should be taller, around 7 to 8 feet, to ensure everyone can comfortably fit and there's enough headroom.

When deciding on the position and size of your wedding arch, it's important to consider the overall flow and aesthetics of your venue. You don't want the arch to obstruct any beautiful views or architectural features, but rather to enhance them and create a memorable setting for your special day.

Materials: Metal arches can be pushed into the ground for stability, but wooden arches need to be secured with concrete

Metal arches are a good option if you want to avoid the hassle of assembly. They can be easily pushed into the ground for stability. However, if stability is a concern, you may want to sink the arch uprights into tall, narrow planting pots and fill them with sand or earth. This method works for both metal and wooden arches.

Wooden arches, on the other hand, usually require a more permanent solution for stability. Holes need to be created, and then filled with concrete to secure the arch. This is a common method used for garden-variety wooden arches. If you plan to reuse the arch after the wedding, perhaps as a feature in your garden, then this could be a good option.

The stability method you choose will depend on the type of arch you select and how permanent you want the installation to be. It's important to consider the safety of your guests, especially children and those wearing heels, so ensure that any stands or feet are not potential tripping hazards.

Frequently asked questions