Ceremony Backdrop Inspiration

If you are getting married in a church or a synagogue, there is always a natural altar area and backdrop for you to have your wedding ceremony in front of. Besides some additional flowers or simple decor, the stage is already set for you. When it comes to having a ceremony at another location, especially outdoors, it's often up to you to set the scene. From Chuppahs to altars and arbors to pergolas, whatever you choose to call them, they set the backdrop for your wedding ceremony and especially for all of your ceremony pictures. 

You may have your florist create one, or be inspired to make your own. Either way, here are 10 inspirations for creating a more unique wedding ceremony backdrop. 

1. Paper Petals: A cheaper and easier way to make a bold impact. Simply purchase (or hand make!) paper flowers and attach them to a sturdy freestanding backdrop. 

Source

2. Chalk It Up: Make it personal by listing your names and the names of your VIPs. This chalkboard backdrop makes a great frame for photos. 

Source

3. Drape It: Draping helps create a more formal and romantic feel. Try switching out traditional fabrics for lace or even burlap.

Source

4. Graffiti Wall: Have a graffiti artist create especially for you and then transform it into a great photo booth backdrop after the ceremony. 

Source

5. Knock Knock: Create your own backdrop by hinging together old salvaged doors. 

Source

6. Let the Light Shine Through: Hang windows or hinge them and let the light shine through. 

Source

7. Quote It: Bring in your favorite song lyrics, a meaningful poem, a promise to each other, or even part of your vows. 

Source

8. Flower Power: Go straight to your florist and let them go crazy with flowers to make a beautiful Chuppah. 

KC and Eli's Wedding
Photo courtesy of Tim Joyce Photography

9. Light it Up: Use lighting to give a soft and romantic feel. String lights or candles will do the trick!

Source

10. Nature is Your Backdrop: Sometimes all you need are the elements around you to make the perfect ceremony backdrop. 

Lacey and James' Wedding
Photo courtesy of Claire Hudson Photography

-Caitlin

Kristen and Jeff's Wedding

Kristen and Jeff's fun and relaxed wedding took place early last October with their closest friends and family by their side to help celebrate. Kristen's bridesmaids looked lovely in their long slate blue halter top gowns. They carried white rose bouquets that had small pops of copper berries to match the wedding's blue and copper color scheme! Kristen's wedding day attire was a Maggie Sottero A-Line drop waist satin gown with a V-neck and a beautiful brooch to add a small touch of sparkle. She wore her hair down with a small rhinestone headband and topped off her long with a long flowing veil. She looked flawless! Jeff anxiously waited to see his bride make her way down the aisle for their traditional Catholic ceremony. After being pronounced husband and wife for the very first time, they exited the church and went out for photos. First stop was as the Haddonfield dinosaur for some fun pictures before heading over to the reception to take advantage of the spectacular views that Glen Foerd has to offer. While they were off with their photographer, we were hard at work adding the special touches that made their wedding unique! They put a lot of thought into their wedding day and wanted their guests to remember the great time they had! The guests table assignments were written on a map of Philadelphia and the tables were named after different Philadelphia landmarks. The couple personalized the table names by having a photo of themselves at that particular landmark- such a great idea! To keep with the fall theme of the wedding, the DIY centerpieces consisted of lanterns that were surrounded by a wreath of leaves, cocktail tables were decorated with mini pumpkins, and so were the bars and mantles. The menu also matched the fall theme and featured a pumpkin gnocchi- yum! The guests really let loose after enjoying their dinner and packed the dance floor all night long. While guests were having fun, the couple chose to cut their cake quietly off to the side so that the party could continue. The newlyweds exited the reception through a sparkler sendoff at the end of the night, making some great photos!

Congratulations Kristen and Jeff!

Ceremony: Christ the King Parish

Reception: Glen Foerd Mansion

Catering and Cake: Conroy Catering

Photography: Angelina Photography

Florist: Pure Design

Entertainment: DJ SnKPaK

Hair and Makeup: Vibrant Images

Lighting and Draping: Synergetic Sound and Lighting

Coordinators: Jen and Laura