Criteria For Choosing a Wedding Arch
Wedding Planning
Elettra Wiedemann | Executive Director of Mama Farm
September 21, 2023
A wedding arch is an important decorative element that is also the focal point of your ceremony and a frame for some of your most cherished wedding photos. In this guide, we'll walk you through the essential criteria for selecting the perfect wedding arch that complements your theme and enhances the beauty of your special day
Understanding the Importance of a Wedding Arch
The wedding arch’s symbolism is very powerful with many layers: It can symbolize the arch of life, it visually connects the past, the present and the future, and some even consider it a link between Heaven and Earth. Think about how many generations in your own family have stood under an arch to exchange the same vows and imagine the arc of their lives and how it landed you right here on your very own wedding! The arch is a powerful visual symbol metaphor for unity and continuity. If you don’t wish to have a traditional arch, you can also create a custom-made arch with plants and flowers that are meaningful to you and your family traditions. A custom-made arch is a wonderful way to showcase your unique love story. It's no wonder why many couples opt for an arch made to order, reflecting their personalities and style.
It's important to remember that your wedding arch is also a focal point of your wedding ceremony. Imagine your guests sitting in the perfectly arranged chairs, all eyes on you and your significant other as you exchange your vows beneath the beautiful arch. It's the backdrop for one of the most memorable moments in your life, and you'll want it to be picture-perfect. A well-designed and cohesive arch can leave a lasting impression on your guests and creates an excellent setup for your wedding photos.
Assessing Your Wedding Theme and Venue
Before selecting an arch, consider the theme of your wedding. Your arch should seamlessly blend with your chosen style. By identifying your wedding style, you will have a better idea of what type of arch will work best for you.
Your arch should also harmonize with your chosen venue. A beach wedding might call for a simple, breezy arch, while a farm ceremony at Mama Farm could benefit from a more intricate floral or verdant design.
Here are a few things to consider that can impact your arch decision vis-a-vis your wedding venue:
Indoor or outdoor: Will your ceremony be held indoors or outdoors? Make sure to choose an arch that works well with your venue and can withstand any weather conditions if needed.
Venue size: Keep the size of your venue in mind to determine how big of an area you have to work with, as well as the arch's proportions.
Venue restrictions: Some venues might have specific rules and regulations, so it's essential to check with them regarding the types of arches allowed, materials, and setup requirements.
Finally, it's essential to think about your personal touch. Are there any specific elements you'd like to incorporate into your wedding arch? Perhaps you're considering a one-of-a-kind fabric or a particular flower type to represent your love story. Whatever it may be, use it as inspiration in your search for the perfect wedding arch.
Exploring Different Wedding Arch Styles
When it comes to choosing the perfect wedding arch, there's a wide variety of styles and designs to consider. Your wedding arch should complement your overall theme, as well as the surrounding setting. Let's take a look at some popular and diverse wedding arch styles that you can choose from!
Classic and Romantic Arches
If you're aiming for a timeless look, consider a curved arch with elegant floral arrangements cascading down its sides. Want something a bit more dramatic? Go for a metal arch adorned with soft chiffon fabric, providing an ethereal and romantic touch to your ceremony.
Rustic and Bohemian Arches
For couples who have an affinity for nature and a laid-back style, rustic and bohemian arches are an excellent choice. Wood arches are versatile and complement rustic, bohemian, or outdoor weddings. At Mama Farm, we’ve had members of the family forage fallen wood from our conserved woodlands to build an arch for the couple. The result was a beautiful, rustic arch made of gnarled wood that was decorated with beautiful flowers. Another option is a hexagon wedding arch, crafted from wooden branches and accented with bright blooms.
Modern and Minimalist Arches
If clean lines and simple elegance are what you're after, a modern or minimalist arch is the way to go. Metal arches exude a contemporary and minimalist vibe and can be made to order, if you wish. This allows you to customize the design and color to match your wedding décor. We suggest sticking to an arch shape that showcases crisp, straight lines, such as a square or geometric design. Focus on minimal elements, like monochromatic flowers or glass vases, to make a statement without overwhelming the space.
Unique and Customized Arches
Feel free to think outside the box when it comes to your wedding arch design. Have fun exploring different materials and shapes that reflect both of your personalities and the overall theme of your big day. For example, you could go for a sculptural metal arch that matches the architectural details of your venue, or create a one-of-a-kind circular arch to symbolize unity and eternal love. At Mama Farm, we’ve also had family members build the arch themselves as a gesture of goodwill and love for the couple, with beautiful and meaningful results.
No matter which arch style you choose, it's important to remember that it should serve as a beautiful backdrop for your vows. Find an arch that matches your style, vision, and venue, and your ceremony will be one to remember.
Material and Color Selection
Choosing the right material and color for your wedding arch is key to creating a stunning focal point for your special day. Let’s dive into the essentials you need to consider when selecting the perfect wedding arch.
One popular choice is a high-quality wood frame. A wood wedding arch can provide a timeless, classic look that blends well with various wedding themes. To enhance its visual appeal, you could finish it with a walnut stain. This versatile stain complements a wide range of color palettes and adds that touch of elegance.
It's important to choose a wedding arch design and color that blends seamlessly with your overall theme. Combining the arch with your chosen colors helps create a harmonious atmosphere throughout your event. You may decide to keep things natural with a simple wood finish or add a splash of color with paint or fabric draping – the choices are endless!
Another factor to consider is the size of your wedding arch. Since you'll be capturing plenty of memorable photos under it, the size should be well-suited for your venue and desired aesthetics. Keep in mind that a custom-sized wedding arch is also an option, so you can get the perfect fit for your big day.
Whatever materials you decide to use for your wedding arch, ensure the design is symmetrical and balanced, adding to its aesthetic appeal. Sketch out various looks to make sure you will be happy with your arch come time for your Big Day and exchange of your vows.
When creating your wedding arch, you are honoring the tradition and symbolism of the arch and also putting your individual touch on it. You are carrying the wedding arch tradition forward and enhancing it for those that come behind you. Take your time exploring the various wedding arch options available, and remember that our Mama Farm staff love to discuss creative ideas around wedding arches, florals, or any aspect of your wedding day. Your wedding arch will be the visual apotheosis of your ceremony and be a portal that signifies the beginning of your journey together.
