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An arch or chuppah visually anchors a wedding ceremony and creates a sense of intimacy. A wedding arch literally frames the couple as they share their vows. Below are photos to give you wedding arch inspiration for your clients’ wedding – or for your own wedding!

Wedding Arch Inspiration Number 1: Asymmetrical Draping

To add visual interest, have your arch draped in an asymmetrical pattern – in this case, one side is pulled back like a curtain, the other left freely flowing. This beautiful design at the Portofino Hotel was created by Bea Tran. Photo by Brady Puryear.

Wedding Arch Inspiration Number 2: Dramatic Lighting

For this chuppah at the Carondelet House, lighting by Lee Dyson of Hey Mister DJ makes all the difference. The beams of vivid pink give the structure heightened drama and elegance for a show-stopping focal point to the couple’s ceremony. The advice here: there’s more to fabric and flowers when it comes to the aesthetics of a wedding arch. The flowers and draping by Peony and Plum are already so amazing – and the lighting takes the entire look to a whole other level!

Also note: the gorgeous cake (by Fantasy Frostings) sitting underneath the canopy. Once the ceremony concluded, we flipped the space to a dining area. We took advantage of the arch by moving the cake under the chuppah. As a result, the chuppah was used intentionally, and beautifully! Photo by Brian Leahy.

Wedding Arch Inspiration Number 3: Using Existing Arch Structures

At Calamigos Ranch in Malibu, couples have access to a wealth of existing structural elements to complement their wedding. For the Redwood Room space, a large portico made of rustic wood gives florists and designers the perfect foundation for stunning setups. Here, Butterfly Floral and Event Design hangs delicate orchids and frames the canopy with beautiful florals and curly willow for an elegant look with rustic textures. Photo by True Photography.