Floral arches have become increasingly popular and make a striking feature at a wedding ceremony. We chatted to Cindy Rynhoud, florist and owner of Love Laugh in Ballito, about the trend and what it takes to create an impactful piece.
A floral arch serves as a beautiful focal point for the wedding ceremony, drawing attention to the area where the happy couple exchanges vows. “The arch sets the tone for the rest of the wedding – be it romantic, rustic or modern,” explains Cindy. “Most arches can be moved after the ceremony, and double as a backdrop for a photo booth or to frame the bridal couple. They’re great for adding a touch of elegance, romance and natural beauty to a wedding venue and create a memorable backdrop.”
When it comes to designing a floral arch for a wedding ceremony, there are a few key elements to consider. “It’s important to understand the couple’s vision, wedding theme, colour palette and any specific flowers or styles they would like to include,” explains Cindy. After visiting the venue, she develops a design concept that aligns with the couple’s vision and the look and feel of the space.
She always chooses high-quality, seasonal flowers and greenery, as well as a sturdy arch framework that can support the weight of the plants. Cindy urges couples to understand that proper preparation is key as a lot of time and effort goes into preparing the flowers even before the assembly stage can begin. Ideally, the arch should be assembled on site on the day of the wedding. Because the flowers are attached to the arch with cable ties or floral wire and secured with reusable floral mesh, there’s no need to use floral foam. “It’s very eco-friendly and sustainable,” says Cindy.
For the best possible effect, Cindy suggests ensuring that the arch is balanced and symmetrical. “It will appear in some of the most important photos of your special day,” she says. “Adding finishing touches with fillers and flowers creates depth and texture. This is when chandeliers or lighting can be added.”
There are a few flowers that are proving particularly popular at the moment. Roses are classic and romantic, are available in many colours and last well in arches, while peonies work well because of their size. Cindy says that hydrangeas are wonderful to bulk up an arch and create a striking visual impact, but it’s important to note that they don’t enjoy heat. Lillies come in various types and shades and offer a unique look; dahlias boast vibrant colours and add drama and personality to an arch; succulents and aloes add a trendy element to your design; Phalaenopsis orchids, which include exposed roots can be reused and enjoyed after the wedding; and gypsophila can be used on its own for a stunning effect, or mixed with other florals.
“There are currently a number of innovative twists and variations for couples to consider when selecting a wedding arch,” explains Cindy. Hanging installations can be made to look like floating clouds of florals or greenery, while living walls or vertical gardens made of flowers or foliage are eco-friendly options that add texture and depth to a space. Geometric shapes are on trend. “We often use triangles, hexagons and squares in arch designs,” says Cindy. “The oval arch is no longer the norm.”
Dried flowers and grasses are still very popular, and can be kept as memorabilia for the bridal couple. More and more couples are also looking at ways to make their wedding décor more sustainable. Some good eco-friendly options include wild flowers and grasses; local and seasonal florals; reusable materials; and natural elements such as branches, vines and foraged foliage.
Details: www.lovelaugh.co.za; 032 648 0039; [email protected];
IG: @lovelaughproteas; FB: LoveLaughSA
Photographs:
Marielle Catherine Photography; Misty Kisses Photography; Capture It Photography
