Sometimes a wedding arch is a no-brainer way to spruce up your
ceremony site. No-brainer, at least, until you actually have one in
your hands and ready to decorate. Then it gets a little more
complicated.

Thinking back to prom, you might recall something vaguely gauzy, but
that doesn't give you much to go on when you have that bare-looking
eight foot metal structure in your living room. Plus, maybe you want
an arch that doesn't look like prom at all -- and personalization is
what's going to make your wedding tick. Here are some ways to give
that arch a touch of your wedding's unique flavor.

The Balloon Arch: Don't forget this dramatic, pearly alternative to
the wood or metal arch. A determined bride (or family member) can
definitely do this herself; helium isn't even required if you use PVC
or can suspend microfilament from the ceiling. Just keep in mind it's
best to build the arch the day of the wedding, and essential to build
it within hours of the ceremony if you use helium-filled balloons.

The Classic Arch: Soften the hard bones of your arch by draping it in
gauzy base material (tulle, organza) and silk garlands of ivy (or real
grape vines).

Now accent with a large silk bow, a pomander ball or "kissing ball" --
which you can make yourself if you're willing to use silk roses -- or
a traditional grouping of flowers at the top.

Or for a little more oomph, use the rule of three: one flower
arrangement for the top, and at least one at each base. DIY-ers are
probably best off sticking to silk, or at least using potted flowers
at the base.

The Gothic Arch: Use a simple black arch that rises to a dramatic
point and leave the lines clean and unadorned -- or attach dried curly
willow for a downright spooky touch. Hang an enormous floral kissing
ball from the apex.

The All-Floral Arch: Dripping from top to toe in greenery and roses,
the all-floral arch is the kind of formal living sculpture seen in
cavernous churches. The greens and blooms in this

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