Keeping Your Wedding Arbor: Materials, Care, and Why Couples Choose to Keep Them

Wedding arbors can serve as lasting mementos when built from durable materials like powder-coated metal or rot-resistant wood. Modern options include custom and modular designs with weatherproof finishes. Couples choose to rent, buy, or DIY based on budget, storage, and how they plan to reuse the arbor. Regular maintenance - sealants for wood and finish touch-ups for metal - extends the piece's life.

Why couples keep wedding arbors

Many couples now choose to keep the arbor or arch used in their ceremony as a lasting memento. An arbor can act as a garden feature, a backyard focal point, or a family heirloom - sometimes passed down so children can be married under the same structure.

Common materials and finishes

Arbors used for weddings come in a range of materials. Metal options include powder-coated steel, aluminum, and copper; these resist rust and can be finished to match the wedding palette. Wood options such as cedar or pressure-treated lumber offer a warmer, more rustic look and naturally tolerate outdoor use when properly sealed.

Modern finishes matter. Powder coating, outdoor paints, and marine-grade sealants protect metal and wood from weathering. For coastal or humid environments, stainless steel, galvanized frames, or rot-resistant woods are popular choices because they reduce long-term maintenance.

Customization and themes

Couples commonly commission custom arbors to reflect their wedding style - minimalist metal frames for a modern ceremony, ornate wrought-iron designs for a vintage look, or raw timber structures for a bohemian aesthetic. Arbors can be integrated with florals, greenery walls, fabric draping, or lighting to create a distinct ceremony backdrop.

Designers and local metalworkers or carpenters often collaborate with florists to build an arbor that's both structurally sound and photo-ready. Many vendors now offer modular arbors that can be adjusted for different ceremony spaces or reused for later events.

Rental, DIY, or buy-to-keep

Couples weigh three main options: rent, buy custom, or DIY. Rentals are cost-effective for one-off events and reduce long-term storage needs. Buying a custom arbor gives you a permanent piece for your property. DIY arbors let crafty couples personalize details and save money, but they require time and the right tools.

Care, storage, and reuse

If you plan to keep an arbor, basic maintenance will extend its life. For wood, reapply sealant every few years and inspect for rot. For metal, check for chips in the finish and touch up paint or powder coating to prevent corrosion. When storing an arbor for winter, keep it dry and off the ground if possible.

A kept arbor can be repurposed for anniversaries, garden entrances, or future ceremonies. Its sentimental and aesthetic value often makes it a meaningful addition to home landscaping.

Choosing what's right for you

Decide based on budget, storage, desired longevity, and how much you value a physical keepsake. If you want a long-lasting piece, prioritize durable materials and professional finishes. If you prefer flexibility, consider a high-quality rental or a modular design that can evolve with your needs.