Last Updated on May 25, 2023 by Kimberlee Johnson
If you’re preparing for your big day and envision a picturesque wedding arch adorned with lush flowers, you’ve come to the right spot.
Today, I’ll share my first-hand experience and insights on how to make floral swag for wedding arch that will take your wedding decor to the next level.
With a few simple steps and a touch of creativity, you’ll have a breathtaking masterpiece that will leave your guests in awe. So let’s transform your wedding arch into a floral paradise.
5 Steps In Making A Floral Swag For Wedding Arch
1. Preparation
Start by preparing your flowers and greenery. If you like your fresh flowers to last longer, cut their stems at an angle in running water.
When working with artificial flowers, you may need to trim the stems to the necessary length.
2. Start With Greenery
Begin your swag with a base of greenery. Cut several pieces of your chosen greenery to the desired length when putting it at the top and bottom of the swag.
As you reach the center of the foam cage, you should begin tilting the greens forward. Trim the length of the stems of any extra plants as you near the center.
Lastly, the stems in the middle will start to extend forward in a straight line, and the shorter stems in the center will come out in a line toward you.
3. Add Flowers
Choose a few flowers and add them to your greenery bundle. Mix the flower types or use one type at a time for a more uniform look.
“Life is the flower for which love is the honey.”
–Victor Hugo, Former Senator of France
Like the greenery, cut the flowers’ stems if you place them in the middle. And if you have flowers that don’t have long stems, you’ll need to tape and wire them so they stay in place.
If you use roses, trim their thorns so they cannot penetrate the florist foam. Vary the type and color of the flowers as you go along to create an organic, natural look.
4. Add Details
You can add finishing touches like small flowers, a range of green colors for visual interest or even small decorative items matching your wedding theme.
5. Attach To The Arch
Finally, attach your floral swag to your wedding arch. You can use additional floral wire or zip ties to secure it. Ensure it’s secured tightly so it doesn’t move or fall during the ceremony.
What Do You Need To Create A Floral Swag?
To make floral swag, you’ll need a variety of fresh or faux flowers, such as roses, peonies, or hydrangeas [1], and greenery like ivy, eucalyptus, or ferns.
“Crafting a floral swag for your wedding arch is like composing a symphony of nature’s beauty, where each bloom harmonizes with the next to create a masterpiece that tells your love story.”
– Howkapow Gift Site
You’ll also need floral or chicken wire, floral tape, twine, and wire cutters or clippers for assembling your swag.
For added decoration, you can add ribbon or twine to the swag for attaching to a wedding arch or other structure.
Garland vs. Swag: What’s The Difference?
A swag is an ornamental piece that resembles a garland. But while a garland is the same width all the way through, a swag has one or both ends that are narrower and thicker than the rest.
Besides, garlands drape along tables, chairs, and more.
On the other hand, with their cascading and loosely arranged design, swags are more compact and asymmetrical, often used to adorn arches, doorways, or centerpieces.
How To Keep The Flowers On My Wedding Arch From Wilting?
1. Prepping & Hydration
Properly prepare the flowers before attaching them to the arch. The stems should be chopped at an angle, and any excess foliage should be removed.
Place the stems in water tubes filled with fresh hot water [2] to keep them hydrated until it’s time to attach them to the arch.
2. Choose A Cool Location
Find a shaded or cool location if your wedding arch is outdoors.
Wilting can be hastened by exposure to strong sunshine or high temperatures, so it’s important to locate a position with some shelter from the elements.
3. Water Misting
Before attaching the flowers, lightly mist them with water. It will provide additional hydration and help prevent them from drying out.
FAQs
How to attach greenery to an arch for a wedding?
Start by tying the greenery to the arch using a wire, securing it well. Then add a few florals, such as roses or carnations, to the greenery for an extra pop of color.
What do you call a wedding arch covered in flowers?
A wedding arch adorned with flowers is typically called an “arbor” or “bower.”
How long will a flower arch made of fresh flowers last?
A flower arch made of fresh flowers typically lasts two days when you put it in an air-conditioned room.
What should you do with the flower arch after the wedding?
The flower arch can be reused as a decoration for the reception or as a sweetheart table background for future events.
Let’s Sum It Up
Creating stunning floral swag for your wedding arch doesn’t have to be overwhelming.
Following these easy steps I’ve shared based on my first-hand experience, you can craft a breathtaking masterpiece that will elevate your wedding decor.
Remember to gather the necessary supplies, such as fresh flowers, floral wire, and a sturdy base.
To keep your flowers vibrant throughout the day, mist them with water, store them in a cool environment, and consider using water tubes for hydration.
With a little creativity, your wedding arch will become a captivating focal point, leaving a lasting impression on everyone attending your special day.
References:
- https://www.housebeautiful.com/lifestyle/gardening/a43850626/everything-you-need-to-know-about-hydrangeas-including-how-to-change-their-color/
- https://www.rd.com/list/benefits-of-drinking-hot-water/
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