Dreaming of saying “I do” under a gorgeous wedding arch, but not loving the price tag of renting or buying one? Same. The good news is: you don’t need to go store-bought when there are so many easy, creative DIY wedding arbor ideas that look straight out of Pinterest.
Not only will you save money, but you’ll end up with something that feels personal to you and your partner. It’s the kind of project you can build (or style) together, and bonus points if you repurpose it in your backyard landscaping after the big day—or resell it to another couple (like I did with mine).
Let’s dive into my favorite wedding arbor DIY projects that range from simple and minimal to modern and chic.
💌 Before you scroll: Don’t forget to grab my DIY wedding venue planning checklist so you don’t miss a detail.
Simple Wedding Arbor DIYs
The Simplest “Tree-Draped” Arch
If your ceremony is outdoors, sometimes nature already provides the perfect arbor. Drape soft fabric between two trees and you’ve got an instant backdrop. It’s casual, romantic, and ideal for backyard weddings.
All you really need is extra long drapery. Grab it in either this 40’ length, or 32’ length.
Repurposed Garden Arbor
Already have one in your yard? Bring it to your wedding! Garden arbors (or trellises) make stunning ceremony spaces with minimal effort, like this gorgeous DIY boho wedding. Add fabric or florals for a dreamy upgrade.
Love this look?! Here’s one people are loving on Amazon!
Simple Decorated Circular Metal Arch
An easy classic wedding arch look is to simply grab one of these circular metal wedding arch frames and dress it up with a floral swag and fabric. Done and done.
Want to recreate this look? Grab this simple metal frame here!
Hanging Floral Backdrop
Skip the arch and create a whimsical backdrop with flowers strung along twine or fishing line. Hang them from a simple metal stand (like this 6.6’ square one) for a playful, photo-friendly design.
Fabric Strip Backdrop
Want boho vibes? Cut strips of fabric (thrifted tablecloths or discount fabrics work great here!) in your wedding colors and hang them from rope, a curtain rod, or a metal frame. They flow beautifully in outdoor ceremonies and are totally customizable. Grab this rotary cutter to make this project a breeze!
DIY Wedding Arbor Ideas to Build
Simple Square Wooden Arbor
All you need are a few 2x4s, a saw, and some screws to make this minimal frame. We built this for my backyard wedding, draped it with fabric and florals, and it was gorgeous. Pro tip: resell it after and recoup your costs!
DIY Copper Pipe Wedding Arch
Chic, modern, and surprisingly simple to DIY. My friends built one for their wedding and it looked incredible with greenery swags. Want the tutorial on how they did it? Check out their copper and greenery wedding.
DIY PVC Pipe Arbor
Love the copper look but not the price? Build the frame with PVC pipe and spray-paint it. Affordable, lightweight, and chic once decorated.
Vintage Doors
Ah, this idea was DEFINITELY on my Pinterest board for a long time, until we decided to keep it simple. But this look is absolutely gorgeous, especially for an outdoor or vintage wedding ceremony.
DIY Hexagon Wooden Arbor
If you’re handy (or know someone who is), this geometric take on a wedding arbor is stunning. Kelsey + Ben used this to bring a modern touch to their gorgeous wedding at the historic German House. Measurements = tricky, but worth it!
Here’s a great tutorial for getting a DIY hexagon wedding arch right!
Grounded Floral Arches
One of the trendiest DIY wedding arch ideas right now: grounded floral arches. These grounded pieces (using these frames) frame the couple from the floor up, creating striking ceremony photos. If you go the DIY route with this arch idea, give yourself PLENTY of time. Pool noodles work great as your base here.
Nested Triangle Wedding Arches
This DIY nested triangle wedding arch is such a gorgeous boho wedding look. Check out this Video DIY tutorial from Wedding Planning School.
DIY Wedding Arbor Alternatives
Ceremony Nest
Instead of an arch, build a “meadow” nest where you stand surrounded by organic floral or greenery shapes. Think grounded arrangements that curve around you, like a natural embrace. Learn how to make one in this tutorial!
Pillars
Not into arches? Frame your aisle with sleek pillars topped with flowers. It’s clean, modern, and easy to DIY if you already have pedestals or can thrift some. Or, you can grab this set!
Oversized Lanterns
For a romantic rustic fall wedding on a budget, line oversized lanterns on either side of your aisle. Add candles (real or LED) for an ethereal glow. Bonus: they can double as reception décor later in the night. Love this look? Grab them here!
Wine Barrels
Rustic brides, this one’s for you. Use two wine barrels as your “pillars” and top with florals. Perfect for vineyard or summer/fall wedding.
Stacked Wooden Crates
Another rustic, budget-friendly option: thrift or borrow wooden crates, stack them into pillars, and add flowers on top. The layered look feels warm and farmhouse-chic.
Christmas Tree Backdrop
If you’re planning a winter wedding, nothing beats lining your ceremony space with fresh (or faux) Christmas trees. Leave them simple or add twinkle lights for a cozy, magical effect.
DIY Wedding Arbor Decorating Ideas
Once you’ve built your structure, you can decorate it with fabric, greenery, flowers, lanterns, or even lights. Wondering what fabric to use for a wedding arch? Try chiffon, voile, or lightweight tulle—they drape beautifully and won’t overwhelm the frame.
Final Thoughts on Wedding Arbor DIYs
Building or styling your own DIY wedding arbor is one of the best ways to save money, personalize your ceremony, and create a focal point guests will always remember. From simple tree-draped arches to modern geometric frames, there’s an option here for every couple, budget, and skill set.
✨ Bottom line: focus on what fits your style and wedding vibe—and keep it simple. Sometimes the easiest ideas are the most impactful.
💌 Ready to DIY more of your day? Don’t miss these guides next: