So, it’s getting closer to the big day and you suddenly realize you have no wedding arch plans in place. Is this absolutely necessary? If not, what are the alternatives? If you’re unsure, left it a bit late, or don’t know how you feel about arches, stick around! We’ll go over some alternatives and other things to consider in the great “to arch or not to arch” debate!
To Arch or Not to Arch: Do You Really NEED One?
Let’s get the main question out of the way first, shall we? Despite what Pinterest and Instagram would have you believe, no, you do not NEED a wedding arch to get married. Heck, you don’t even need a wedding! Literally the only things you need are a willing partner (this isn’t the stone ages, after all), a license, an officiant, and maybe a couple of witnesses (some areas don’t require witnesses).
Why You Should Get a Wedding Arch
Weddings are all about making a memory and setting the tone for your special day. A wedding arch can do just that! Let us look at some reasons why some couples do choose to include a wedding arch as part of their wedding decor
It Creates the Perfect Backdrop
Getting a wedding arch is the perfect way to create an enchanting atmosphere on your special day. An arch makes for a beautiful frame in photos and makes those photos even more special with its unique silhouette and intricate details craftsmanship.
From classic white floral arrangements to intricate metallic designs, the possibilities for creating a stunning backdrop are endless when it comes to wedding arches.
In addition, a wedding arch allows you to create your own custom look that will make your big day even more memorable. That is because you are able to style it any way you want, taking advantage of the different shapes, sizes, colors, materials, and decorative patterns as long as the end result matches the theme of your wedding.
Plus, it offers plenty of flexibility since it can be moved any way you like. Overall, a stunning arch provides a distinct backdrop that can transform any setting into an amazing one, adding an elegant touch that will help make those special memories last a lifetime. With its timeless appeal, the right wedding arch can provide an amazing focal point that will turn your special day into something extraordinary.
It is a good wedding focal point
When done right, a good wedding arch can help tie all the decorations together. As such, it can quickly become a breathtaking centerpiece for your wedding. As the centerpiece in your ceremony decor, a wedding arch is unique in its ability to draw the eye and set the tone of your special event.
With this essential visual element on display, any emotion you’d like to transport to your guests as they witness your vows can be effectively embodied – whether romantic feelings or playful energy. A wedding arch provides an almost timeless classicism that no other display can achieve.
All in all, a wedding arch is definitely worth considering if you’re looking to create a statement centerpiece at your wedding.
A Wedding Arch is Cost Effective
Furthermore, renting or purchasing a decorated wedding arch is much more cost-effective than arranging floral decorations or building a custom structure. It’s definitely worth considering if you are planning your big day!
However, a wedding arch is not compulsory inclusion in your wedding ensemble. While it offers elegance and style, it does not take away any meaning from your wedding if absent. As such, if you plan on going along the “no wedding arch” route, you should not let anyone make you feel as though you are sacrificing a huge piece of your wedding experience.
You do not have to take our word for it, though; we have more than enough evidence to prove this. Let’s talk about scenarios and check out some amazing photos of brides and grooms who went without one!
Beach wedding
Arches- especially the ethereal portable arches with flowing fabric- are super popular for beach weddings. I must admit, they frame the ocean beautifully and just sort of pull the whole wedding look together, as you can see above.
However, they’re not essential by a long shot. If you want a free alternative, try drawing a heart in the sand! You can also use candles or seashells to create one.
Outdoor wedding
Like beaches, arches create a beautiful focal point for an outdoor wedding. However, there are SO many other alternatives! I love the example above, how they used the colorful flowers to create a a border. Just look around your venue (or your garden or yard) and I bet you’ll find something perfect. The best part? It’s totally free!
Indoor wedding
Whether you’re hosting your ceremony at a church or in a ballroom, when it comes to indoor weddings you can absolutely get away with no arch. In fact, most of these places either provide one for you or have a built-in “focal point” ready and waiting.
Destination wedding
If there’s one situation where I’d say definitely skip the arch, it’s destination weddings. Why go through the extra hassle of finding an arch for rent, along with someone to set it up? Instead, just use your destination itself as your backdrop. An amazing building, a gorgeous bridge, a natural arch- anything goes. If you’re planning to wed in Rome, for example, the Coliseum makes an extraordinary “frame” for your ceremony!
Okay, we’ve seen that it’s totally possible to get by with no wedding arch by using what’s already around you- whether it’s nature, a super gorgeous building, or a venue that includes an arch. What if those aren’t options, though? Maybe you’re tying the knot in your “not exactly Instagram-worthy” backyard? Hey, mine doesn’t scream “wedding venue,” so I know your struggle. If that’s the case, read on for some other alternatives that you can buy.
Full disclosure: We do use affiliate links in this article, so we earn a small commission when you buy something using one of our links. This comes at no extra cost to you.
Alternatives to the “traditional” wedding arch
Let’s be honest, arches can be pretty darn pricey. In fact, one Redditor felt that they’re so “stupid expensive, he made one himself! While that’s definitely a viable option- which we’ll discuss later on below- it’s far from the only route when it comes to arch alternatives.
The Wedding Wire forum featured one bride who was searching for either an inexpensive arch or a cheap alternative, which would look just as good. She said,
So, I’ve been scouring Pinterest for a simple, inexpensive DIY wedding arch or backdrop to be married in front of and none are really catching my eye. Did anyone forgo (or planning to forgo) an arch of any sort?
1. A Photo Backdrop
One user suggested that a photo backdrop and some ribbon was the perfect option for her – and worked just as well. Nowadays, everyone with a good camera phone fancies themselves a “professional” photographer, and retailers are catering to them big time. Where you’d once have to go to a specialty photography store to get backdrops, now you can just pop on Amazon and pick up a dozen for a bargain.
If you want a cheap backdrop, this rustic style one would look great at a forest or vintage style wedding. This is a great option, especially if you’re leaning towards not having an arch at all. If that’s not your thing, though, you can find countless options on both Amazon and Etsy.
- [Size] 82 inch x 59 inch
- [Material] Econ Vinyl
- [Features] High-resolution digital print with eye-catching details and lifelike colors. Lightweight, cost-effective, tearproof, and good for one-time use.
2. Floral arches
Another option is to have a floral arch or floral posts – these are breathtaking and differ slightly to your traditional arch. You can order these from your local florist.
Or, save money and make it yourself! I highly recommend checking out Amazon. They have extraordinary DIY kits loaded with gorgeous real blooms.
- Premium Wedding Arch Draping Fabric: These draping fabrics are made of wrinkle-resistant soft polyester; Whenever you use these fabrics, they can always keep smooth and flat which will be more graceful than tulle and nylon fabrics
- Wedding Flowers For Arch: The hanging flowers are realistic by handmade, never fade or fall which can totally replace those easy to wither and expensive real flowers; The artificial flowers can stay beautiful outlook forever which symbolizes eternal love, perfect for wedding decoration
- Vivid Wedding Flowers For Arch: The hanging flowers are realistic by handmade, never fade or fall which can totally replace those easy to wither and expensive real flowers; The artificial flowers can stay beautiful outlook forever which symbolizes eternal love, perfect for wedding decoration
3. Surfboard arch
If there’s a certain aesthetic/theme to your wedding which you think would look great, go for that. How great do these surfboards look in place of an arch? They’re a lot more personal and unique – we love these.
4. Fabric arch
While we usually thing about fabric as something that goes on the arch, you can also just use it to mimic an arch itself on its own! You’ll need something to secure it to, obviously. If you’re outdoors, try using tree branches as supports.
- COLOR INSPIRED: Create a romantic french atmosphere with the pink inspiration of soft cream and dusty rose. Elevate your delicate spring wedding ceremony backdrop decorations with Ling’s exquisite wedding arch flowers kit.
- FIT ON ARCH: Tailored for decorating 5' W x 6'5" H arch stand as photography show. Floral swags curve hanging on the arch, measuring about 3.6ft L x 1ft W and 2ft L x 0.82ft W.
- NEVER WILTED: Substitute for costly fresh flowers and greenery, providing over 70% budget saving. Mainly crafted from foam & silk artificial flowers, complemented by premium wrinkle-free chiffon sheer fabrics. Ensuring a realistic appearance.
5. DIY wedding arch
Obviously, there is the option of making a wedding arch yourself. This is a great alternative – it’s easier to personalize and ends up tons cheaper. For instance, take a look at this arch made from sticks and other natural pieces found. This would look incredible at an outdoor wedding, and costs virtually nothing to create.
If you want flower arrangements like this, you can find them on Etsy – faux/paper flowers are the best as they are easier to work with, and do not die/fall apart. This means you can have your wedding arch ready sometime before the big day – important, especially in such uncertain times.
No products found.We love these faux flowers, as they would look absolutely amazing next to rustic wood/sticks, like in the picture above.
- Value for Money:With 60pcs 3" diameter roses and 10pcs green leaves per set.Perfect for making bouquets, centerpieces, kissing balls, boutonnieres, cake flowers or any other artificial flower arrangements.NOTE:Please note that Derblue's roses are handmade,so slight variations in size and color may occur between different batches.
- Premium Quality:Derblue's artificial rose flowers are made of high-quality PE foam and adjustable wire,Derblue's faux flowers are sturdy & resistant to damage.The flexible stems( about 8 inches long ) can be easily cut or bent to suit your needs.
- Lifelike and Vibrant Color:Derblue's fake roses arrangements design a real looking, featuring vibrant colors and a soft, realistic texture that rivals real flowers.Choose from a wide range of vibrant colours to suit any occasion or décor. Our artificial roses will add a pop of color and beauty to your space.
Remember, it’s your wedding, so anything goes as long as it makes you happy! Whether that’s no wedding arch at all, an arch alternative, or just standing naked together in a field, if it fits your dream, go for it! Um, for that last example, you’ll definitely want to check local laws! No one wants to get arrested for “indecent exposure” on their big day. 😀
What was your favorite idea? Would you opt for no wedding arch, or do you feel like it’s a necessity? Share below!
I’m a freelance journalist/writer/content marketer with BA Hons in Journalism.
Last update on 2025-01-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
