Creating A Wedding Garland Backdrop: A Step-By-Step Guide

Wedding garland backdrops are a beautiful addition to any ceremony and can be made from fresh or artificial flowers, fabric, or paper. You can make your own, with the help of online tutorials, or buy them from sites like Etsy and Amazon. If you're feeling crafty, you'll need some flowers or fabric, a cutting mat, a rotary cutter, a ruler, and some rope. For a simpler option, you can buy pre-made garlands and add your own personal touches.

Choosing flowers: fresh, fake, fabric or paper

When it comes to choosing flowers for your wedding garland backdrop, you have several options: fresh flowers, artificial flowers, fabric flowers, or paper flowers. Each option has its own advantages and considerations, so here's a detailed guide to help you make the right choice for your special day.

Fresh Flowers:

Fresh flowers add a touch of elegance and natural beauty to your wedding garland backdrop. They provide a romantic and luxurious feel to the overall decor. When choosing fresh flowers, consider the following:

• Seasonal Availability: Opt for flowers that are in season during your wedding date to ensure their freshness and availability.
• Fragrance: Select flowers with a pleasant fragrance to enhance the ambiance. However, be mindful of guests with allergies or strong scent sensitivities.
• Colour and Variety: Choose colours and varieties that complement your wedding theme and colour palette.
• Longevity: Opt for flowers with a longer vase life, such as roses, lilies, or orchids, to ensure they remain fresh and vibrant throughout your wedding day.
• Budget: Fresh flowers can be more expensive, so consider your budget and the number of flowers needed for your backdrop.

Artificial Flowers:

Artificial flowers, often made from materials like silk, offer a cost-effective and low-maintenance alternative to fresh flowers. Here are some points to consider:

• Durability: Artificial flowers are long-lasting and can be reused or repurposed after the wedding, making them a practical choice.
• Variety: You'll find a wide range of artificial flower options, including popular wedding flowers such as roses, peonies, and wisteria.
• Customisation: Artificial flowers can be customised to match your colour palette, and you can even find pre-made garlands with mixed flowers and greenery.
• Ease of Setup: Artificial flower garlands are typically easy to set up and can be installed in advance without worrying about wilting.

Fabric Flowers:

Fabric flowers offer a unique and creative twist to your wedding garland backdrop. They are often handmade and can add a whimsical or rustic charm to your decor. Here are some things to keep in mind:

• Texture and Variety: Fabric flowers can be made from various materials, including silk, cotton, or burlap, adding interesting textures to your backdrop.
• Customisation: Fabric flowers can be crafted in any colour or style to perfectly match your wedding theme.
• Lightweight: Fabric flowers are usually lightweight, making them easy to hang or attach to your backdrop structure.
• Uniqueness: Fabric flowers offer a one-of-a-kind look that will make your wedding decor stand out.

Paper Flowers:

Paper flowers are an eco-friendly and budget-friendly option for your wedding garland backdrop. They can be crafted from recycled materials and add a whimsical or bohemian touch to your decor. Here are some considerations:

• Variety: Paper flowers can be made in various colours, sizes, and styles, allowing for a completely custom look.
• Lightweight: Like fabric flowers, paper flowers are lightweight and easy to attach to your backdrop.
• DIY Option: Paper flowers can be a fun DIY project, allowing you to involve your bridal party or family in the creation process.
• Uniqueness: Paper flowers offer a unique and artistic alternative to traditional floral arrangements.

In conclusion, the choice between fresh, artificial, fabric, or paper flowers depends on your personal preference, budget, and the overall style of your wedding. Each option has its advantages, and you can even mix and match to create a unique and personalised wedding garland backdrop.

Using eucalyptus as a base

Choosing the Right Eucalyptus

When creating a eucalyptus garland backdrop, it's important to select the right type of eucalyptus that aligns with your wedding theme and colour palette. Here are some popular options:

• Silver Dollar Eucalyptus: Known for its wide, flat, circular leaves, this variety adds volume and style to any arrangement. It is a versatile choice that can be used on its own or paired with blooms like wood flowers.
• Willow Eucalyptus: Featuring long, thin, flexible leaves in muted colours, Willow Eucalyptus creates a romantic and unique look. It is perfect for draping and creating a high-impact garland.
• Seeded Willow Eucalyptus: Similar to Willow Eucalyptus, but with delicate clusters of seeds, adding interesting details and volume.
• Baby Blue Eucalyptus: This variety has smaller, more delicate leaves with 3D details and a voluminous look. It is often seen in home decor and adds a dramatic touch to your wedding garland.

Creating the Garland Backdrop

Once you've chosen your eucalyptus variety, it's time to assemble your garland backdrop:

• Gather fresh eucalyptus branches and a flexible floral wire.
• Select a few branches and attach them to the wire, layering and alternating directions as you go.
• Secure the branches with floral tape or wire, continuing until you achieve the desired length.
• Hang your garland backdrop or use it as a freestanding decoration behind the ceremony or sweetheart table.

Decorating Tips

To enhance your eucalyptus garland backdrop, consider these decorative touches:

• Flowers: Intersperse flowers throughout the garland, such as white or ivory roses, blush flowers, or vibrant blooms for a bohemian vibe.
• Candles: Add elegant candles to create a romantic and intimate atmosphere.
• Fabric: Drape flowing fabric over the garland to create a whimsical and dreamy effect.
• Signage: Frame your wedding signage, such as seating charts or table numbers, with the garland for a refined bucolic touch.
• Suspended Installation: Hang your garland backdrop from the ceiling or suspend it above the dance floor for a unique and captivating display.

Making a fabric garland

Selecting the Fabric:

First, decide on the length of your garland and choose four fabrics in complementary colours and patterns. You will need 1/4 yard of each fabric. Thin fabrics will look less full, while thick fabrics will give your garland more volume. Cotton fabrics will lay flatter, whereas felt or fleece fabrics will not fray.

Cutting the Fabric:

Cut the fabric into strips. For a 6-foot garland, cut 5" strips. You can use fabric scissors, pinking shears, or a rotary cutter. Pinking shears will create a zig-zag pattern on the edges, adding texture and minimising fraying.

Tying the Fabric:

You will need string, twine, or yarn for this step. Cut the string to your desired length, leaving about 10" extra on each side for hanging. Then, cut the fabric strips into 1" pieces. Thread the fabric pieces onto the string, creating a simple overhand knot.

Displaying Your Garland:

Your fabric garland is now ready to be displayed! You can hang it on a fireplace mantel, drape it over a mirror or ladder, or hang it from a headboard or door. Get creative and experiment with different fabrics and colours to suit your style and space!

Using tapestry thread to hang flowers

Tapestry thread is a versatile material that can be used to hang flowers for a wedding garland backdrop. Here are some steps and tips to create a beautiful and elegant display:

Planning and Gathering Materials:

• Decide on the colour and type of tapestry thread that complements your wedding theme and flowers. Consider matching or contrasting colours for a stylish effect.
• Determine the length and number of threads needed based on the size of your backdrop and the number of flowers you plan to hang. Allow for some extra length for tying knots and adjustments.
• Gather your flowers, ensuring they are fresh and have sturdy stems or attachments for hanging. You may also use artificial flowers for a longer-lasting display.
• Choose a secure hanging point for your garland backdrop, such as a wall, arch, or ceiling, and ensure you have the necessary hardware for attachment.

Creating the Garland:

• Cut the tapestry thread to the desired length, allowing for some excess.
• Tie a small knot at one end of each thread to create a secure point for hanging.
• Decide on the spacing and arrangement of your flowers along the thread. You can create a uniform pattern or vary the distances for a more organic look.
• Carefully attach the flowers to the thread using thin wire or floral tape. Ensure the attachments are secure and won't slip or break under the weight of the flowers.
• Once all the flowers are attached, adjust the spacing and arrangement as needed for a pleasing composition.
• Hang the threaded flowers from your chosen hanging point, using appropriate hardware. Space the threads at regular intervals to create a full and balanced backdrop.
• Step back and adjust the positioning and arrangement of the flowers and threads to create a visually appealing display.

Care and Maintenance:

• If using fresh flowers, keep them hydrated and fresh-looking by misting them with water or using flower food solutions.
• Check the garland regularly to ensure the flowers are securely attached and none have wilted or discoloured.
• For artificial flowers, gently dust or wipe them clean if needed, being careful not to damage the petals or foliage.
• Store the garland backdrop carefully after the wedding. You can reuse it for future events or preserve it as a memento.

Buying pre-made garlands

If you're short on time or don't feel confident making your own garland backdrop, you can always buy pre-made garlands. Here are some things to keep in mind:

Online Options

There are many online retailers that offer pre-made garlands, such as Etsy and Amazon. Etsy is a great option if you're looking for something unique or more personalised, as it features many small businesses and independent sellers. Amazon, on the other hand, offers a wide variety of options at different price points and has the added benefit of fast delivery for Prime members.

Types of Garlands

When buying pre-made garlands, you can choose between fresh and artificial garlands. Fresh garlands, like those offered by Pacific Garland and Costco, are made from real greenery and flowers, giving your wedding backdrop a natural and elegant look. However, fresh garlands need to be cared for and may not last as long as artificial ones. Artificial garlands are made from faux flowers and greenery, and they are a more durable and low-maintenance option. They can also be more cost-effective, especially if you're looking for a specific type of flower that may be out of season.

Considerations

When buying pre-made garlands, consider the length and quantity you will need for your backdrop. Also, keep in mind that some garlands may not come with flowers, so you might need to purchase those separately. Finally, if you're ordering online, be sure to plan ahead to allow for shipping or delivery time.

Examples

• Etsy options: Fresh Eucalyptus Garland, Macrame Wedding Backdrop, Wildflower Garland, and 6ft Artificial Eucalyptus Garland.
• Amazon options: Der Rose 2 Pcs 13Ft Artificial Eucalyptus Flower Garland, TELDRASSIL 4Pcs 26 FT Artificial Rose Vine, and Lvydec Wisteria Artificial Flowers Garland.

Frequently asked questions