Are Ceremony Arches Out? Why Floor and Pillar Arrangements are Taking Over
When you picture a wedding ceremony, chances are an arch comes to mind. For years arches have been the classic backdrop. They are beautiful, traditional, and easy to imagine when you close your eyes and think “wedding.” But recently the industry has started to shift. Couples are rethinking the ceremony backdrop, and instead of walking under an arch, they are choosing lush floor arrangements and modern floral pillars that feel fresh, timeless, and incredibly photogenic.
Why arches are starting to feel less relevant
The truth is, arches can sometimes box you in. They are large, heavy, and not always easy to repurpose after the ceremony. Many couples find that once the vows are said, the arch becomes little more than décor sitting in a corner. On the other hand, floral pillars and grounded arrangements can be moved easily and used again for the reception. Imagine your ceremony florals becoming the lush backdrop for your sweetheart table, or flanking the band during your first dance. Flexibility is everything when you want your flowers to work harder for you.
There’s also the photography side. Arches often cut across the frame and can create shadows or awkward lines. Floor pieces and pillars create open space that allows your photographer to capture you against the scenery, whether it’s a garden, a lake, or even the interior architecture of your venue. The florals feel like they are a part of the environment instead of a set piece.
The appeal of floor and pillar pieces
Floor arrangements and pillars are designed to look organic and intentional. They grow upward, framing the couple in a way that feels natural. They can be minimal and modern or lush and garden-inspired. And because they are not locked into a heavy wooden structure, the design feels more airy and adaptable.
This style also allows for more creativity. Designers can create asymmetrical shapes, play with height, and layer textures in ways that a traditional arch doesn’t always allow. It’s a move toward modern editorial styling without sacrificing romance.
Is the arch “out”?
I don’t believe any design choice is ever truly out. An arch can still be stunning, especially if it has sentimental meaning or if it works beautifully with your venue. But the rise of pillars and grounded designs shows us that couples are prioritizing flexibility, photography, and unique styling. It’s less about following the exact trend and more about finding what resonates with your vision.
If you’ve always dreamed of an arch, have one. If you are drawn to something new and want your florals to be versatile and dynamic, pillars and floor pieces may be the perfect fit.
How to choose what’s right for you
Look at your venue. Does the space already have architectural features that frame you? If so, floor arrangements can highlight them without competing.
Think about repurposing. Will you want to move your ceremony florals into the reception? Pillars and floor pieces are easier to transition.
Consider your style. Do you lean modern and editorial, or traditional and timeless? Let that guide you.
Talk with your florist. A professional designer can sketch options and help you visualize how different setups will feel in your space.
Ready to create your ceremony moment?
Your ceremony backdrop is one of the most photographed parts of your wedding day. It should feel true to you and your love story. At The Flowr Studio, I design intentional florals that are meant to move with you through your day and tell your story beautifully.
Every petal tells a story, and I can’t wait to be a part of yours. Reach out through my contact form or email me directly at contact@theflowrstudio.com. Let’s create a ceremony design that feels timeless, modern, and completely yours.
