Planning A Wedding Aisle: A Step-By-Step Guide

A wedding aisle is one of the most important parts of the ceremony, as it is the path the couple walks on to begin their new lives together. It is also the most photographed moment of the wedding, so it is important to make it look perfect. There are many ways to decorate a wedding aisle, from simple flower petals to more extravagant designs like lush floral arrangements or a custom-painted aisle runner. The type of decorations used will depend on the couple's preferences, the wedding theme, and the budget.

Use flowers, petals, or potted plants

Flowers, petals, and potted plants are a great way to add a romantic, ethereal, and colourful touch to your wedding aisle. Here are some ideas to incorporate them into your wedding:

Flowers

Flowers are a classic choice for wedding décor and can instantly transform your ceremony into a magical fairy tale. If you're looking for a more unique spin on the traditional floral walkway, try placing single-stem roses along the aisle as if they were growing from the ground. Alternatively, create a colourful pathway by lining the aisle with a combination of pink and white flowers leading to a matching chuppah. For a modern and elegant look, consider using blue and white flowers to create an ombré effect that will stand out against the blue sky. If you're aiming for a moody vibe, dark, leafy greenery with gem-toned flowers is a perfect choice.

Petals

Petals are a romantic and delicate way to decorate your wedding aisle. Create a runner of scattered petals to define the aisle and give your ceremony an airy, whimsical feel. Pair the petals with votive candles and gold accents for an upscale setup. If you want to add a pop of colour or texture, sprinkle petals around each place setting or down the centre of the reception tables to create a natural table runner. For a unique design, arrange petals in a creative pattern such as swirls of blush, peach, and white.

Potted Plants

Potted plants are a trendy and eco-friendly way to decorate your wedding aisle, and they can easily be moved from the ceremony to the reception, saving you money. You can choose from a variety of plants, such as succulents, cacti, herbs, or large leafy plants, to create a natural and lush atmosphere. For a unique seating chart idea, use large pots as a canvas to write your seating chart, and place the plants on a tiered table or bench. If you want to frame your reception space, consider using small potted trees, especially in an open-air dining area. Potted plants also make great wedding favours, giving your guests a lasting memento of your special day.

Add candles or lanterns

Candles and lanterns can be a beautiful, romantic addition to your wedding aisle. Here are some ideas on how to incorporate them into your special day:

Lanterns

Lanterns are a timeless and chic way to illuminate your wedding aisle, casting a warm glow on your procession. They come in various shapes, sizes, and colours, allowing you to find the perfect match for your wedding style. You can hang them, place them on the ground, or use them to line your aisle. Consider filling them with candles, LED lights, or even flowers for a vintage-inspired, rustic feel. If you opt for real candles, ensure you take the necessary safety precautions.

Candles

Candles create a romantic and intimate atmosphere for your wedding ceremony, especially for evening celebrations. Groupings of pillar candles or tapered candles of varying heights can make a dramatic statement. For a safe alternative, flameless candles can be used, which provide the same warm glow without the fire hazard.

Combining Candles and Lanterns

Combining candles and lanterns can create a stunning visual effect. You can place candles inside lanterns, enhancing the glow and creating a magical ambiance. Alternatively, you can mix and match, using lanterns as the main decoration while adding candles in smaller quantities to complement the overall look.

Creative Displays

To make your wedding aisle truly unique, consider these creative display ideas:

• Hang lanterns from shepherd's hooks or trees, especially if you're having an outdoor wedding.
• Use floating candles in clear glass vases or hurricanes of different sizes, filled with water, flowers, or other decorative elements.
• Line your aisle with lanterns of varying sizes and styles, creating an asymmetrical, eclectic look.
• Add candles or lanterns to the backs of aisle chairs or pews, perhaps hanging them with ribbon or rope.
• Incorporate flowers and greenery with your candles and lanterns for a natural, bohemian feel.

Safety Considerations

When using open flames, always be mindful of safety. Ensure your venue allows real candles, and if so, take precautions to avoid any fire hazards. Keep flammable objects away from candles, and consider using flameless or LED candles as a safer alternative, especially if young children are present.

By incorporating candles and lanterns into your wedding aisle decor, you will create a romantic and atmospheric setting for your special day, providing a warm glow that will make your entrance even more memorable.

Lay down a rug or runner

Laying down a rug or runner is a great way to decorate your wedding aisle, especially if you're going for a boho or vintage theme. Here are some tips and ideas to help you create a beautiful and memorable aisle for your special day:

Choose the Right Rug

Select a rug that complements your wedding theme and colour palette. Vintage rugs with colourful patterns can add a fun, textural element to your aisle, while a Persian rug can bring a touch of elegance and sophistication. If you're having an outdoor wedding, consider using rugs that are easy to walk on and can handle the elements.

Layer Your Rugs

For a unique and inviting look, try layering multiple rugs along your aisle. This works especially well for outdoor or boho-themed weddings. You can use different sizes and patterns to create a whimsical and eclectic pathway. Just make sure the rugs are secure and don't pose a tripping hazard for you or your wedding party.

Combine with Other Decorations

Enhance your rug or runner with additional decorations such as flowers, potted plants, or lanterns. For a cohesive look, choose flowers or plants that match your rug's colour scheme. You can also add candles or fairy lights for a romantic and enchanting atmosphere.

Create a Clear Path

Use your rug or runner to define a clear path for the wedding procession. This is especially important for outdoor weddings where the aisle may not be obvious. The rug will not only add a decorative touch but also provide a practical guide for the wedding party and guests.

Ensure Safe Walkway

If your wedding is in a grassy or uneven area, a rug or runner can make walking easier for everyone, especially those in heels. Opt for a rug with a flat weave and secure it in place to prevent tripping or bunching. You can use weights or tape to keep the rug in place and ensure a smooth walk down the aisle.

Make it Personal

Incorporate meaningful details into your rug or runner design. For example, you could include a monogram or a meaningful quote. This will make your aisle unique and reflective of your love story.

Create a backdrop with arches or doors

Wedding backdrops with arches or doors are a creative and versatile way to enhance your ceremony space. The style of doors you choose will depend on the theme of your wedding and the impression you want to create.

For a vintage or refined wedding, consider shabby chic or distressed doors adorned with greenery and blush blooms. Arched French doors decorated with greenery and coral blooms create a beautiful and chic backdrop, while rustic barn doors with pastel flowers and moss topiaries evoke a charming country vibe.

For a fairy-tale wedding, metal doors with intricate detailing can set the tone, while double arched French doors with white and orange blooms and candle lanterns create a sophisticated atmosphere.

If you're having an outdoor wedding, a unique idea is to use a living tree as a backdrop, complemented by a set of shabby chic doors decorated with blooms and greenery. For a beach wedding, double doors with greenery and white blooms, paired with pillar candles, can add a vintage coastal touch.

Don't forget to style your door backdrop with monograms, lights, or matching floral arrangements on both sides. You can also add vintage suitcases, books, and candle lanterns to enhance the overall atmosphere and create a memorable visual impact for your special day.

Hang decorations on chairs

Hanging decorations on chairs is a great way to elevate the look of your wedding aisle. Here are some ideas to inspire you:

Flowers and Greenery

Flowers and greenery are always a popular choice for wedding decorations. You can create beautiful floral arrangements using artificial or fresh flowers, and hang them on the chairs. Add some greenery for a touch of elegance and texture. You can also use floral garlands or swags to drape over the chairs. Another idea is to place large floral arrangements behind the chairs to create the illusion of decorated seating.

Ribbons and Fabric

Ribbons and fabric can add a chic and elegant touch to your wedding aisle chairs. You can use satin or chiffon ribbons, or fabric such as tulle or linen, to create bows, drapes, or sashes on the chairs. Play around with different colours, lengths, and styles to achieve the look you want.

Signs

Adding signs to the chairs is a fun way to designate the bride and groom's seats and add a personal touch. You can use wooden signs, acrylic laser-cut signs, or even mirrors with calligraphy writing. Hang signs with your new titles, such as "Mrs." and "Mr." or get creative with phrases like "Together, Forever".

Balloons

Small balloons in your wedding colours can be a unique and budget-friendly way to decorate the chairs. Heart-shaped balloons or those in your chosen colour palette will add a whimsical touch to the aisle.

Chair Covers

If you want to go beyond simple chair decorations, consider using chair covers. You can find chair covers in various materials, such as fabric, tulle, or linen. These can be draped over the chairs and secured with ribbons or ties. Chair covers can be a great way to transform the look of the chairs and hide any less attractive seating.

Frequently asked questions