Let’s be honest: why settle for an ordinary ceremony space when you can create a captivating floral haven for your big day? A personalised wedding arch can steal glances and be applauded as it plays multiple roles, from ceremony centerpiece to a stunning backdrop for photos and a chic photo booth. And we suggest you grab your materials and envision the romance because we’ll teach you how to make an arch that will become the backdrop to your “I do” moment.
What You’ll Need to Make an Arch
Before we start the creative process, ensure you’re armed with the essentials. Here are the supplies you’ll need to create a show-stopping floral arch:
- Flowers
- Greenery
- Snips/bunch cutters
- Large 11” zip ties
- Wet floral foam cage
- Water (for soaking the foam cage)
Crafting a large arch? You can incorporate roses, snapdragons, mini carnations, stock, spray roses, buttons/cushion poms, and greenery. We suggest avoiding delicate options like Ranunculus and Scabiosa, as they might not hold up well. For instance, Lisianthus, with its long stems, can work but may be a bit on the pricey side. If you opt for thin metal arches, consider using small foam iglus instead of the large foam cages for better support.
How Do You Make an Arch
Once you’ve gathered your chosen blooms and essential supplies, it’s time to bring your vision to life and turn those flowers into a mesmerizing arch.
Step #1: Soak the Foam
Ensure your foam is thoroughly soaked for optimal hydration. You can place the cage upside down in a water-filled bucket, allowing it to float on the surface. As it gradually sinks, it will absorb water throughout. Then, leave it in the bucket for another 2-3 minutes to guarantee complete hydration.
Let the water run for 5-7 minutes if you use a sink. Ensure that the cage is moved around, allowing every part to be saturated evenly.
Step #2: Add Your Zip Ties
Before incorporating any flowers, attach your zip ties for greater convenience. It’s recommended that the daisy chain three zip ties together, each approximately 10-12 inches long.
Carefully weave the zip ties in and out of the plastic grid to ensure stability. This technique ensures that the zip tie will still securely catch the plastic if the cage shifts. You can add zip ties in at least two locations for added security.
Step #3: Set Your Parameters with Greenery
Now, you have to determine the desired size of your arrangement by using these pieces as a reference. For a better perspective, hold the foam cage up to your arch or against a wall with the assistance of a friend. This will help you gauge your body’s optimal size or placement on the arch.
Step #4: Add More Greenery
You can enhance the cage with additional greenery. Aim for a full appearance from a distance, maintaining visibility of gaps up close. You need to leave ample space for more flowers. You can later add more greenery to fill any remaining gaps and achieve a balanced and lush overall look.
Step #5: Incorporate Large Blooms
Add your voluminous flowers, such as mums, cremones, roses, and carnations. Reserve a few blooms to fill in any gaps later.
Want to add hydrangeas? Since these blooms are extra-large, they’re a cost-effective choice for filling substantial spaces. However, they are not compatible with foam. So, keep them aside until the wedding day, placing them in the arrangement as close to the ceremony as possible.
Step #6: Add Your Long Flowers
Incorporate longer flowers such as snapdragons, stock, and delphinium. These blooms offer a distinct texture compared to the round ones and contribute additional length to the arrangement when positioned on the sides.
Step #7: Add Texture
You can include texture items like berries, solidago, or thistle. These flowers, along with the longer blooms, are optional. If your palette lacks a variety of colors, they may not be necessary. Keep in mind that Tthistleand berries, in particular, are relatively small and may not be prominently visible in the arrangement.
Step #8: Add Your Small Flowers
Complete your arrangement with smaller blooms like mini carnations, spray roses, and button/cushion poms. Although each bud is individually tiny, these flowers form clusters of about 3-5 blooms on each stem, effectively occupying considerable space. Their relatively long stems easily integrate them into larger arrangements, offering a vibrant burst of color and varied texture.
Avoid incorporating small, short items like ranunculus or anemones for this particular arrangement.
What Should You Do After Completing Your Arch Arrangement?
Here are some key insights and practical advice on what to do after completing your stunning floral creation:
- Storage: Once your arrangement is complete, store it in a cool room; refrigeration is unnecessary.
- Cage Preparation: Create the foam cage on day 2 or 3 of having your flowers. Keep the foam hydrated using a watering can or holding it under the sink to re-wet it. Treat it like watering a plant, focusing on the foam rather than the flowers.
- Extra Blooms: Set aside a bucket of a few extra blooms for the wedding day.
- Transportation: On the wedding day, transport the cages flat on the base, placing them in the trunk of your car. Use a box or a towel underneath in case of leaks.
- Assembly at Venue: At the venue, have a friend hold the cage in place while you connect the zip ties. If using a metal grid and placing the cage at an angle, ensure proper tightening of zip ties to prevent sliding, especially on large wooden arches with vertical beams.
Can I Add More Flowers and Do Some Adjustments?
After placing your arrangement on the arch, take a moment to step back and assess it from a different angle. You might notice a few gaps. Utilize your bucket of extra flowers and greenery to fill in these spaces or replace any stems that may have broken during transport.
For outdoor ceremonies, aim to wait until as close to the start time as possible before placing the cages on the arch. If necessary, delegate this task to allow yourself time to prepare and take photos.
And that’s a wrap. Whether you’re building a wedding centerpiece, an entrance to your garden sanctuary, or a unique home accent, you’re now equipped with the knowledge and enthusiasm to bring your architectural dreams to life.
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