Wedding Arbour Styling Tips: DIY Ideas & Inspiration

Your wedding arbour is more than just a decorative piece — it’s the heart of your ceremony, the place where all eyes are on you and your partner as you exchange vows. Styling an arbour can completely change the look and feel of your ceremony, whether you’re saying “I do” on a cliff-top, in a garden, on the beach, or even indoors.

The best part? You don’t have to be a professional stylist to make your arbour look stunning. With a few simple ideas, DIY tips, and a little creativity, you can create a ceremony backdrop that’s uniquely yours.

Why Your Arbour Matters

• Ceremony Focal Point: It frames you and your partner for vows and photographs, making your ceremony the centerpiece of the day.

• Sets the Mood: From romantic and whimsical to minimalist or luxe, your arbour sets the style tone for your wedding.

• Photo Magic: A well-styled arbour looks incredible in photos — the combination of flowers, draping, and greenery can make every shot feel dreamy.

• Flexible Design: Your arbour can be styled to suit almost any venue, whether it’s a garden, beach, winery, or function hall.

  
  

DIY Styling Tips

• Mix Real & Artificial Flowers: Combining real blooms with high-quality artificial florals helps your arbour look lush and natural while keeping it intact for the entire day.

• Draping Fabric: Lightweight fabrics flutter beautifully in the breeze for outdoor ceremonies. Indoors, layering textures adds depth and richness to a smaller space.

• Lighting: Fairy lights, lanterns, or battery-powered candles instantly create a romantic glow, perfect for late afternoon or evening ceremonies.

• Stability First: Outdoor locations can be windy or uneven. Use sandbags, rocks, or weighted bases to secure your arbour and prevent wobbling.

• Symmetry vs Asymmetry: Symmetrical arrangements feel classic and balanced, while asymmetrical styles give a more modern, dynamic look.

• Budget-Friendly Options: Use greenery for volume instead of expensive flowers. Adding small clusters of blooms for pops of color keeps costs down.

• Add Personal Touches: Incorporate items that are meaningful — framed photos, ribbons, or even hanging signage can make your arbour feel personal and intimate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Ignoring the Venue Backdrop: Think about what’s behind your arbour — a blank wall, cliff view, or ocean waves can dramatically affect how it looks.

• Overcrowding the Arbour: More isn’t always better. Too many flowers or drapes can look heavy or cluttered.

• Neglecting Stability: A wobbly arbour is not just unsightly — it can be unsafe for you, your partner, and your guests.

  
  

Inspiration for Every Location

• Cliff-Top & Lookouts: Keep it minimal and wind-resistant with light fabrics and greenery.

• Beach Ceremonies: Tropical blooms or sturdy artificial flowers work best for wind and sand.

• Garden Weddings: Layered textures, cascading flowers, and subtle lighting create a lush, magical look.

• Indoor Venues: Use fabrics, greenery, and lighting to make a standard space feel intimate and personalised.

  
  

Extra Inspiration

For ideas on how to style your arbour for a beach ceremony, check out our guide to styling beach weddings. No matter your style or budget, your ceremony can feel uniquely yours. Take a little inspiration from these ideas, add your personal touch, and enjoy every magical moment of your special day.