What is a Wedding Backdrop?

Over the years, wedding backdrops have become a more significant element of your wedding production. They add a sense of elegance and drama, helping tie together your décor theme and focus attention on the couple during the ceremony. 

But what is a wedding backdrop specifically? And do you need one for your wedding ceremony? 

What is a Wedding Backdrop? 

Traditionally, wedding backdrops are meant to frame the happy couple as they exchange their vows and enjoy their first kiss together as a married couple. Many people attach their backdrop to a frame or wedding arch of some description, whereas others simply use their stunning location as the backdrop to their ceremony. 

All kinds of designs, materials, and styles are used as wedding backdrops, from asymmetrical flower displays attached to temporary copper frames to fabric drapes hanging from a pergola. There are no hard and fast rules regarding wedding backdrops, and you can make any choices you want. 

What Are the Most Common Choices for a Wedding Backdrop?

Typically, couples opt for a floral backdrop for their ceremony, which is often attached to an arch structure. However, as mentioned, you can choose to have any kind of wedding backdrop. 

You may decide to have a bold, striking, oversized painting as your backdrop or a wall of faux animal fur, there are no rules governing wedding backdrops, and the choice you make will be a personal one. 

How Big Should a Wedding Backdrop Be? 

While there might not be any rules governing what you choose as your wedding backdrop, there are some general guidelines regarding how big they should be. 

The idea is for the wedding backdrop to frame the couple during the ceremony. With that in mind, they should be at least half a metre taller and at least a metre wider (half a metre on each side) than the couple and the person officiating the ceremony. 

Are Wedding Backdrops Limited to the Ceremony?

No, not at all. While that is primary role is framing the couple during the wedding ceremony, couples often have dedicated backdrops within their wedding venue for special moments such as the first dance as a married couple. 

You can also have specialist wedding venue drapes and backdrops that add to the venue's ambience. Many of them incorporate LED lighting, giving them a starlit effect. These types of wedding backdrops are often erected along the walls of wedding reception spaces and at the head of the room, behind the top table.

Take the Necessary Time to Choose Your Wedding Backdrop(s)

While it may seem as though there are hundreds of decorative items you need to think about for your wedding, don't rush through your wedding backdrop choices.

Unlike some other elements of your wedding production, your wedding backdrop will have a much more dramatic impact than most things, and it will feature prominently in those all-important wedding photos. So make sure you aren't rushing your decisions regarding this important decorative feature. 

If you're lacking inspiration for backdrop ideas, it's not a bad idea to check out Pinterest or Google some wedding backdrop ideas and get inspired. You can also reach out to your wedding planner or event supplier who can help you with ideas using their years of experience in the wedding industry.