The ceremony is the most emotive, most essential piece of the entire day. It is where everything begins. Often, it is the part most vividly remembered and relished. When you are designing a ceremony space, a little forethought and an understanding of harmony will go a long way towards making a gorgeous space.

1. Begin with the Concept of the Ceremony

Every beautiful design has a concept. What we call concept here is the style and mood or emotional atmosphere you want in the ceremony space.

Some couples want a soft and romantic space. Others want modern minimalism or luxurious elegance. A concept gives personality to the space and influences decisions. Without the concept, the space feels disjointed, or worse, incomplete.

2. A Great Focal Point

In order to have a ceremony, the ceremony must have a focal point, which is where the couple is going to stand. It is also the most visually important element.

Think flowers/arches, geometric shapes, drapes, or even minimalist frames, the options are endless. The focal point frames the couple and draws the eye, but should never over-power the focal point or detract from the overall effect. Good designs for the ceremony space will make the couple look their best.

3. Understand the Venue

Before you start designing any piece of space, you have to know the venue! Each venue is different and has unique characteristics such as: proportion, light, architecture. An outdoor ceremony would be very different from an indoor ceremony and there is a reason for that. If the venue is already beautiful then it needs to be respected and complimented. The space should be easy to navigate for everyone and make for great photos. It is imperative that you think about how your guests will view and experience the ceremony.

4. Flowers Elicit Emotion

Flowers are key in creating ceremony space. It is the emotional anchor.

Pale pink or white blooms are used for a romantic wedding while bold and beautiful blooms will create a luxurious and dramatic wedding. Flowers can be arranged in an arch, used for the ceremony space, or an entrance to the space, or even in the sky. A good floral design can be the focal point or it can add depth, beauty, and texture to the wedding ceremony without stealing the spotlight.

5. Create a Path to the Ceremony Space

The aisle is very important in the wedding ceremony as well. It creates a visual journey for your guests to see as you and your wedding party walk down.

The aisle can be as simple or elaborate as desired, based on the wedding’s theme. For more simple weddings, a few candles, petals, or even lanterns can be used. More elaborate weddings may have more flowers, hanging installations, and so on. The aisle is designed to lead guests’ eyes, naturally, to the ceremony space.

6. Less is More

Simplicity. I cannot stress this enough. It is easy to get carried away in creating ceremony spaces that the guests may not even notice the couple. A little detail can add just the right amount of character to a space.

7. Consider the Time of Day

Time is a crucial factor in ceremony design. The venue and the natural light is a huge influence on the space. Day time ceremonies have a tendency to be very naturally lit. Evening, or dark weddings are best for a softer light that creates a beautiful ambiance.

8. The Guests

It goes without saying, guests are important. Their seating should be well thought-out, the sight lines clear and no obstacles. The guests should be easily able to move about.

In Closing

When you have the elements of creativity, planning, and emotion, design a ceremony space to remember. With concept, a great focal point, flowers, aisle, time, venue, and guests in mind, wedding stylists can create a one of a kind ceremony experience. It’s not just a beautiful place, it’s an emotionally significant space.