Creating A Floral Archway For Your Wedding Day

A floral arch is a beautiful addition to any wedding and can be a fun DIY project. Whether you're looking to save money or simply enjoy crafting, making your own floral arch is a rewarding endeavour. In this guide, we will explore the steps to create a stunning and sturdy floral arch, from preparing the mechanics to adding blooms. We will also discuss the benefits of using fresh or faux flowers, and offer tips on transportation and setup. With the right materials, time, and creativity, you can design a breathtaking floral arch that will be the perfect backdrop for your special day.

Prepare the arch mechanics

First, you will need to purchase chicken wire and zip ties. Be sure to wear gloves when handling the chicken wire to protect your hands. Next, prep the arch by wrapping the chicken wire around both arch pieces and securing it with zip ties. This will create a grid for your flower stems to stay in place. You can purchase this combo conveniently on Amazon.

For a sturdier arch, you can also use a purchased frame for the arch and flower foam/mud to secure the flowers. This will also give you more flexibility in your design, allowing for an asymmetric or less precise structure.

If you are looking to save time, you can also opt for faux flowers, which can be arranged ahead of time. Alternatively, you can buy real flowers in bulk from wholesale retailers like Costco or Sam's Club.

Cover mechanics with chicken wire

To cover the mechanics of your wedding flower arch with chicken wire, start by “hot dog-rolling” three long pieces of chicken wire and securing them to the frame of your arch with zip ties. You'll want one roll of chicken wire on each side and one along the top. This will serve as the base for your flower arch.

Next, take a large piece of chicken wire and ball it up into a design tray. Secure the chicken wire in place with waterproof floral tape. Repeat this step for each of your design trays. The chicken wire will be hidden underneath the flowers and greenery, providing stability and support for your arrangement.

Floral chicken wire is an excellent, eco-friendly alternative to floral foam and can be easily cut to size. It's also reusable, so you can save it for your next flower arch project!

Once you've secured the chicken wire to the frame and filled your design trays, you can start adding your greenery and flowers. Begin by stuffing hardy greens, stem by stem, into the chicken wire. Make sure to use very hardy greenery since there won't be a water source. You can set aside some greenery to help hide any exposed mechanics at the end.

Add greenery to the arch

Adding greenery to your arch is a great way to create a natural, organic look for your wedding flower arch. It also helps to cover any mechanics, such as zip ties and chicken wire, that you want to be hidden from view.

For a lush and full look, consider using smilax, which can easily be wrapped around the arch. You will need several bags of smilax to cover an 8-foot arch, and don't forget to bring a ladder to help you reach! If you're looking for a more cost-effective option, you can also use faux greenery, which can be purchased and assembled ahead of time. Pool noodles and greenery fencing are a creative and affordable way to add volume to your arch.

If you're using fresh greenery, it's important to consider the logistics of sourcing, storing, and transporting it. Fresh greenery will need to be prepared and assembled closer to the wedding date, so make sure you have the help and time needed to create your arch. You can source fresh greenery from florists, grocery stores, or even grow your own if you have the time and flexibility.

When adding greenery to your arch, you can simply wrap and weave it through the structure, using zip ties or floral wire to secure it in place. This will create a beautiful base for your flowers and help to bring your wedding flower arch to life.

Choose flowers for the arch

When choosing flowers for your arch, it's important to consider the colour scheme and the types of flowers that will be used. You can either choose to use real flowers or artificial flowers, depending on your preference and budget. If you're using real flowers, it's best to source them locally and choose flowers that are in season to ensure they are fresh and cost-effective. You can buy real flowers in bulk from stores like Costco or Sam's Club.

For a lush and romantic look, opt for a variety of flowers in different shapes and sizes. Roses, delphiniums, calcynia, and pampas grass can add texture and elegance to your arch. Consider using greenery such as smilax to create a base for the flowers and to fill in any gaps. Smilax is easy to work with and can be wrapped around the arch, providing a natural look.

If you're looking for a more cost-effective option, artificial flowers can be a great alternative. You can find high-quality faux flowers that look realistic and will last long after your wedding. Stores like Michaels offer discounts on seasonal floral arrangements, so you can save money by buying flowers for the next season. For example, purchasing spring flowers during the winter can give you significant savings.

When choosing flowers, consider the size of your arch and the density of the flower arrangement you desire. A larger arch will require more flowers to achieve a full and lush look. It's a good idea to plan ahead and calculate the number of flowers needed for each type, ensuring you have a beautiful and cohesive floral arch for your special day.

Transporting the arch

Transporting your DIY wedding flower arch can be a daunting task, but with careful planning and the right tools, it can be done smoothly. Here are some detailed instructions and tips to help you transport your arch safely and securely:

Disassembling the Arch:

If possible, disassemble your arch into smaller, more manageable pieces. This will make transportation much easier. For example, if you have a two-piece arch, separate the two sides for easier handling.

Protecting the Flowers and Greenery:

Before transporting your arch, ensure that the flowers and greenery are securely attached and won't easily fall off during transit. Double-check that all zip ties and wires are tightly fastened. You can also add extra wire or zip ties for reinforcement. Cover any exposed wires with tape or fabric to prevent snags or injuries.

Choosing the Right Vehicle:

Select a vehicle that is large enough to accommodate the arch. Depending on the size of your arch, you may need a van, SUV, or truck. If you don't have access to a large vehicle, consider renting one or borrowing from a friend or family member. Ensure the vehicle is clean and free of any sharp objects that could damage the arch.

Securing the Arch in the Vehicle:

Place the arch pieces flat in the vehicle and use blankets, towels, or bubble wrap to protect them from scratches or damage. Secure the arch pieces with ropes or straps to prevent them from shifting during transport. If you have multiple pieces, stack them carefully and separate them with cardboard or blankets to avoid scratches.

Transporting Delicate Items Separately:

If your arch has delicate flowers or decorations that could be easily damaged, consider transporting them separately in sturdy boxes. Place each item in a box surrounded by packing material, such as bubble wrap or foam, to prevent movement and absorb shock during transport. Label the boxes as "fragile" and handle them with extra care.

Driving with Caution:

Drive slowly and carefully to avoid any sudden movements or sharp turns that could cause the arch to shift or sustain damage. If possible, transport the arch yourself or with someone you trust to handle it with care. Choose a route that avoids potholes, speed bumps, or rough terrain to minimize the risk of damage during transport.

By following these instructions and planning ahead, you can confidently transport your DIY wedding flower arch and create a beautiful backdrop for your special day.

Frequently asked questions