Franklin Dean
A wedding arch is an eye-catching feature that adds a personal touch to your special day. Whether you're looking for a rustic, bohemian, or elegant theme, there are endless DIY options to choose from that can be tailored to any budget and skill level. From wooden arches adorned with flowers and greenery to creative alternatives like recycled doors or pipe shelves, the possibilities are endless. So, get ready to roll up your sleeves and create a stunning backdrop for your wedding ceremony!
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Materials | Wood, metal piping, hula hoop, picture frame, mesh, recycled doors, clothing rail, pipe shelves, balloons, fairy lights, vintage curtains, pampas grass, flowers, plants, old ladders, wooden pallets, macrame, polaroid pictures, diamond shapes, gauzy linens, string lights, candles, dried palm leaves, wooden beams, teepee poles, birch wood, driftwood, tree branches, slabs, fabric drapes, ribbon, baby's breath, vases, decorative elements, wooden benches, wooden slabs, wood stain, wood screws, wood glue, metal stakes |
| Shapes | Triangle, hexagon, diamond, rectangular, semicircular, cathedral, geometric, circular, angular, pergola, gazebo, teepee |
| Styles | Rustic, classic, modern, sophisticated, boho, whimsical, elegant, natural, floral, colourful, simple, budget-friendly, large, luxurious, recycled, vintage, fairy-tale, contemporary, coastal, bohemian, eclectic |
| Timing | 1-2 hours |
| Skills | DIY, crafting, woodworking |
What You'll Learn
- Choosing a shape: rectangular, cathedral, geometric, semicircular, or diamond
- Using wooden beams with sharp right angles
- Adding decorative elements: flowers, fairy lights, candles, or gauzy linens
- Using recycled materials: old doors, picture frames, or clothing rails
- Making it stable: sandbags, stakes, or pre-drilling holes
Choosing a shape: rectangular, cathedral, geometric, semicircular, or diamond
Choosing a Shape for Your Wedding Arch
The shape of your wedding arch can set the tone for the entire ceremony, so it's important to choose one that suits your vision and style. Here are some popular options to consider:
Rectangular
Rectangular arches are the most popular choice, according to wedding planners. They offer a versatile base that can accommodate both symmetrical and asymmetrical accents. This shape is a good choice if you want a classic and elegant look, as it provides a well-defined frame for your decorations.
Cathedral
Cathedral arches are an up-and-coming style that can add a dramatic and romantic touch to your wedding. This style is characterised by a curved top, reminiscent of church windows, and can be a beautiful choice for outdoor weddings.
Geometric
Geometric arches are a modern and unique option, with shapes like hexagons, diamonds, and triangles available. This style is perfect for making a statement and can be especially striking at contemporary or bohemian weddings. Etsy, for example, offers a wide range of geometric arch options, including copper backdrops and wooden hexagon arches.
Semicircular
Conventional and timeless, semicircular arches are a popular choice for weddings. This shape can be especially elegant when decorated with garlands of greenery or flowers. You can purchase semicircular arches made from white metal, which can be a beautiful option for outdoor ceremonies.
Diamond
A diamond-shaped arch is a bold and modern choice that will challenge the status quo. This geometric shape is perfect for making a statement at contemporary nuptials. Engulf the arch with greenery or floral decorations to create a stunning botanical flair.
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Using wooden beams with sharp right angles
To create this look, you will need wooden beams, which you can buy or borrow, and cut to size. For a simple structure, you will need three 7-foot pieces and three 5-foot pieces of wood. You can also add extra pieces for support, such as an 8-foot piece for the base and four 26-inch angle pieces for braces. If you're feeling creative, you can add even more pieces to create a tunnel over the aisle, as seen at a contemporary-coastal wedding in St. Michaels, Maryland.
Once you have your wooden beams, it's time to start constructing your arch. Begin by laying out your three 7-foot pieces on the ground and roughing out the shape of the arch. Secure the pieces together with wood screws, and then add your braces and base for extra stability. If you're creating a tunnel, you'll need to construct multiple arches and place them in a line over the aisle.
Finally, it's time to decorate your arch! You can keep it simple with a white fabric drape, or go all out with flowers, greenery, and string lights. Whatever you choose, make sure it reflects your personal style and ties into the overall theme of your wedding.
Building a wooden arch with sharp right angles is a unique and memorable way to frame your wedding vows, and with a little time and creativity, you can create a stunning structure that will wow your guests.
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Adding decorative elements: flowers, fairy lights, candles, or gauzy linens
Flowers, fairy lights, candles, and gauzy linens are all great ways to add a decorative touch to your wedding arch.
Flowers are a classic choice for wedding arch decorations. You can choose flowers that match your wedding colour palette or opt for bright, pastel, or muted shades to create a romantic, whimsical, or elegant atmosphere. If you're looking for something more unique, consider using pampas grass or dried palm leaves instead of traditional flowers. You can also use flowers to create a repeating pattern or a floating frame for your arch.
Fairy lights or string lights can add a romantic and whimsical touch to your wedding arch, especially if your ceremony is taking place outdoors at sunset or in the evening. Just be sure to check with your venue beforehand to see if they allow open flames.
Candles can also create a romantic and elegant atmosphere, especially when paired with flowers and greenery. Just be sure to choose an outdoor venue that allows candles and check if there will be any wind that could blow them out.
Gauzy linens or sheer fabrics can be used to drape over your wedding arch, adding a soft and whimsical touch. You can choose fabrics that match your colour palette or go with classic white or cream. If you want to create a more eclectic look, try using fabrics with Aztec-style prints or geometric patterns.
When adding decorative elements to your wedding arch, consider the overall theme and style of your wedding, as well as the natural features of your venue. You can also use these decorations to accentuate the scenery and bring your theme to life.
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Using recycled materials: old doors, picture frames, or clothing rails
Using recycled materials is a great way to create a unique and rustic wedding arch. Here are some ideas for using old doors, picture frames, or clothing rails to create a beautiful arch for your special day:
Old Doors
Take a trip to your local thrift store or salvage yard to hunt for old doors that can be upcycled into a wedding arch. Look for doors with interesting details, such as carved panels or ornate handles, to add a touch of vintage charm to your ceremony. You can usually find these at thrift stores for a low price, or even for free if you ask around! Once you've collected your doors, simply arrange them into a curved or triangular shape, securing them together with strong rope or hinges. Decorate the arch with flowers, draping fabric, or fairy lights to create a romantic and rustic backdrop for your nuptials.
Picture Frames
For a unique and creative wedding arch, consider using picture frames. You can use a variety of frame sizes and shapes, from large vintage frames to smaller, more modern ones. Start by collecting frames from thrift stores or even your own home. Then, arrange them into a desired shape, such as a triangle or hexagon, and secure them together with wire or string. For a more cohesive look, paint the frames in a colour that matches your wedding theme. Finally, add some decorative touches, such as flowers, greenery, or fairy lights, to transform your picture frame arch into a beautiful focal point.
Clothing Rails
A basic clothing rail can be easily transformed into a stunning wedding arch. Paint the rail in a colour that complements your wedding palette, or leave it as is for a more rustic vibe. Then, decorate the rail with flowing fabric, such as organza or silk, in your chosen wedding colours. You can also wrap fairy lights or garlands of greenery around the rail for a magical touch. For a more striking effect, consider customising your clothing rail with metallic paints in bronze, silver, or gold. Alternatively, keep it plain for a simpler, rustic look. This idea is not only budget-friendly but also offers a unique and affordable alternative to a traditional wedding arch.
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Making it stable: sandbags, stakes, or pre-drilling holes
Once you've built your wedding arch, you'll want to make sure it's stable and secure. Here are some methods to achieve that:
Sandbags: If you're concerned about wind, one option is to use sandbags to weigh down your arch. Place the sandbags at the base of the arch, ensuring they are securely positioned so they don't slip out of place.
Pre-drilling holes: When attaching the various pieces of your arch together, consider pre-drilling holes for your screws. This technique was used in one DIY project, where the creator pre-drilled a hole smaller than the screw on an angle, making it easier to attach the screw at an angle. This method can help ensure a more secure connection between the pieces of wood.
Stakes: Depending on your location and the weather conditions, you may want to consider adding stakes to the bottom of the arch. Metal stakes can be attached to the backside of the posts with screws. This will help anchor the arch to the ground and improve its stability. If stability is a significant concern, you can also add stained 2x2s or 1x2s between the bottom of the legs for extra support.
By using a combination of these methods, you can ensure that your wedding arch is sturdy and stable, providing a beautiful backdrop for your special day.
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Frequently asked questions
You will need wood, of course, as well as wood screws, sandpaper, a saw, and a drill. You can also decorate your arch with cloth, flowers, or other materials.
The type of wood you use will depend on your budget and how long you want the arch to last. Green Doug fir posts are the most affordable, while cedar is a little more expensive but naturally bug and rot-resistant. Clear vertical-grain Doug fir is stunning but expensive and not ideal for outdoor use.
The shape of your arch can be rectangular, semicircular, or angular. You could also try a unique shape, such as a diamond or hexagon.
There are endless ways to decorate your wedding arch. You can use flowers, pampas grass, chiffon drapes, fairy lights, or garlands. You can also add personal touches, such as polaroid pictures or recycled doors.
To add stability to your arch, you can sandbag it or drill holes and add stakes through the bottom braces. You can also add stained 2x2s or 1x2s between the bottom of the legs for extra support.
