Decorating the Entrance
The entrance deserves as much attention to detail as other areas because it is the first thing your guests will see. You can certainly use florals, topiaries or lush ferns on either side of the doorway. Some brides have a large, framed engagement photo on an easel at the entrance. You may want a small table with the programs and guest book for folks to sign as they enter. Just remember to make this initial area as lovely as the inside of the room.
The Aisle
One lovely idea is to have knee high columns every four rows with color coordinated vases of flowers. These can also be repurposed for use at the reception after the ceremony is finished. It is traditional to have a white runner down the center of the aisle; however, you can be creative and use another color if that tickles your fancy. Rose petals or other flowers can be sprinkled down the center in addition to the petals the flower girl drops. One caution: Real petals, especially red, can stain carpets if they are stepped on so silk really is the best option.
The Chairs
Some brides opt for chair covers with bows. If the chairs you are using are in good condition, it really is a place you can save a few dollars. You are in the ceremony so briefly that chair covers are a nice to have not a need to have. Big tulle bows are always elegant and can be purchased or made. Some brides have small flowers arrangements attached to just the chairs on either side of the aisle. You may not want to have flowers on the chairs and flower arrangements on pedestals too due to the cost and visual overkill. If you are going for a Victorian feel you can hang a tussy mussy on every three chairs lining the aisle. Tussy mussys are cone shape holders filled with flowers and they have a ribbon attached for hanging.
The Main Stage
Many times brides focus most of their attention to using flowers in the reception and go sparse on the main stage. Bear in mind this is one place you will take pictures and it should provide a gorgeous backdrop. The traditional archway is still used quite often today. It is interesting to know that the archway is symbolic of eternity and an entrance into a new life. Options for decorating your archway include, color coordinated flowers to match the bouquets, draped tulle, and ivy intertwined throughout. Although the chuppa has Jewish roots, many brides opt for using it because they like the look and feel of it for the ceremony. The chuppa (pronounced, “hoopa,”) is pictured above and usually is draped in flowing fabric. Another option is to use varying heights of pedestals or columns with simple flowers placed in tall glass vases of water. Remember that lighting is important for the main stage as well. Many couples will use lights that angle up, illuminating the columns. Mini white lights tucked inside tulle or wrapped within the greenery looks magical and provide an elegant visual. Make sure the lighting illuminates where you will stand so folks can see really well during the ceremony. And candelabra are all ways elegant in addition to the unity candle. One rule to remember…there are no rules. These days each couple approaches all aspects including décor from their own unique style. The key is make it flowing, elegant, and illuminating so that when the guests come in it takes their breath away and will be remember for years to come!
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