7 Ideas for your Outdoor Wedding Arch

Whether you call it a chuppah, an altar, or an archway, the fact remains that it is the centerpiece of your ceremony. It not only frames your wedding vows and creates a lovely focal point for the ceremony space, but it also acts as your backdrop for photos!

Yes, a wedding arch is kind of a big deal. So we've put together 7 ideas—and lots of photos—to help inspire yours.

A circular wedding arch is like a big, modern wreath. Not only does it pack a visual punch, but it also represents the eternal love you're about to promise to your soon-to-be-spouse. Whether it's covered in flowers or totally naked, a huge round wedding arch lends some drama to saying "I do".

Geometry in school? Not so fun. Geometric décor on your wedding day? So dang chic! For a modern take on the wedding arch, go the angular route. Giant octagonal structures, wooden triangles, and even teepees give some serious shape to your ceremony.

Although many of the wedding arches you see on Pinterest are positively dripping with flowers, some of the most creative ones we've seen use little to no florals at all! Think colorful ribbons, streamers, or even balloons as well as lots of vibrant greenery.

If you're having a ceremony on the sand, or just going for a tropical vibe, you'll want a wedding ceremony backdrop with some beachy elements. Materials like driftwood, Monstera leaves, or airy fabrics pair perfectly with a beachfront setting.

Macramé we suggest some bohemian arch options? This knotted textile gives a hippie-chic vibe to your nuptials, and it looks especially eclectic when paired with a vintage rug. But if you don't want the arch to steal the spotlight, a perfectly minimalist frame in a metallic finish shows off the setting with flair.

If you're getting married in a forest or at a rural ranch, an overly floral arch might look out of place. Instead, consider neutral pampas grass to frame your ceremony, or put the focus on knotted vines or twisted branches. You can even forgo the archway altogether, and set up distressed wooden doors for a more shabby-chic style.

Wedding walls are a modern take on the traditional curved structure. We've seen them range from full-on floral to glorious greenery—but the sky's the limit here. Set up a backdrop stand, channel your inner YouTube star, and hitch up a funky-fresh fabric with a glittery sheen or custom pattern.