PEW BOWS, Pew Decorations, Pew Arrangements
A focal point in any Wedding Event can be the side and back of the Pews or Chairs of Your Guests. With Pew Bows, Decorations and Arrangements you can create a decorated pathway to the Altar or Arch.
The Pew Bow can be an inexpensive way to bring color and decoration into the entire Ceremony and be reused as another decoration at the Reception. An additional advantages of Pew Bows is that they can be made in advance of the Wedding date and stored on cardboard under plastic. And are easily transported.
Pew bows are usually made from a florist satin acetate ribbon, itʼs size varies in width from 1 3/8 inch to 4 and 6 inches.
#9 (1 3/8”) 100 yds roll
#16 (2”) 50 yds roll
#40(2 1/2”) 50 yds roll
#100 (4”) 50 yds roll
The Ribbon can be used alone or in a combination of sizes. A #40 ribbon with a #9 ribbon used as an overlay to form one bow or used as two separate bows joined together to form a more three dimensional bow. You can combine three or more widths together, different types of ribbons and other items can be incorporated together. This list includes laces, cords, tassels, wired ribbons, cloth-like ribbons, tulles, fabric, curling ribbons, paper ribbons, metallic mesh ribbons, brooches, pearls, miniature silk or fresh flowers, the list can be endless. See the floral supply dealers in your area for complete selections.
The Basic Bow of #9 ribbon with center loop and 2 -12” tails uses approximately 124 inches or 3 yards-16inches.
A focal point in any Wedding Event can be the side and back of the Pews or Chairs of Your Guests. With Pew Bows, Decorations and Arrangements you can create a decorated pathway to the Altar or Arch.
The Pew Bow can be an inexpensive way to bring color and decoration into the entire Ceremony and be reused as another decoration at the Reception. An additional advantages of Pew Bows is that they can be made in advance of the Wedding date and stored on cardboard under plastic. And are easily transported.
Pew bows are usually made from a florist satin acetate ribbon, itʼs size varies in width from 1 3/8 inch to 4 and 6 inches.
#9 (1 3/8”) 100 yds roll
#16 (2”) 50 yds roll
#40(2 1/2”) 50 yds roll
#100 (4”) 50 yds roll
The Ribbon can be used alone or in a combination of sizes. A #40 ribbon with a #9 ribbon used as an overlay to form one bow or used as two separate bows joined together to form a more three dimensional bow. You can combine three or more widths together, different types of ribbons and other items can be incorporated together. This list includes laces, cords, tassels, wired ribbons, cloth-like ribbons, tulles, fabric, curling ribbons, paper ribbons, metallic mesh ribbons, brooches, pearls, miniature silk or fresh flowers, the list can be endless. See the floral supply dealers in your area for complete selections.
The Basic Bow of #9 ribbon with center loop and 2 -12” tails uses approximately 124 inches or 3 yards-16inches.
An Overlay bow is of two different width ribbons, the smaller is “overlaid” on the larger ribbon. The smaller ribbon will use more ribbon as it must curve loosely over the bottom ribbon.
A Double-Layer bow is a basic bow with a second bow (no center loop) of the same size ribbon, or larger, placed directly behind the first bow. This second bow should be of a different color, different ribbons or tulle. Bow layers can be wired together or hot glued depending on use. This bow will utilize more ribbon, so the amounts of ribbon will increase as layers are added.
Small Width Ribbon bows are made with three or more ribbons of the same size under about 1 inch.
#1.5 (1/4”), #3 (9/16”), #5 (7/8”). Found in 100 foot rolls.
Although the smaller widths of ribbon are normally used more for Corsages they can make beautiful a Pew Bow. Mixed with other ribbons or lace of similar or a larger size, they can be a relative economical way to add color and bring your Wedding Theme alive. When paired with flowers and/or greens they can make reusable Centerpieces at the Reception for special tables, thus helping cut your centerpiece cost. A special touch to use with these small-width Pew Bows or any Pew Bow, is to use a ribbon printed with Your names and Wedding date (same as used in favors, in a continuous roll) to create a unique Wedding memento.
#1.5 (1/4”), #3 (9/16”), #5 (7/8”). Found in 100 foot rolls.
Although the smaller widths of ribbon are normally used more for Corsages they can make beautiful a Pew Bow. Mixed with other ribbons or lace of similar or a larger size, they can be a relative economical way to add color and bring your Wedding Theme alive. When paired with flowers and/or greens they can make reusable Centerpieces at the Reception for special tables, thus helping cut your centerpiece cost. A special touch to use with these small-width Pew Bows or any Pew Bow, is to use a ribbon printed with Your names and Wedding date (same as used in favors, in a continuous roll) to create a unique Wedding memento.
Variations in ribbon widths, types and textures can create unusual and daring Pew Bows. Todayʼs new colors in Bridesmaids dresses make ribbon bows an excellent way to bring unusual colors not found naturally in to the Ceremony and help keep costs down. Silk flowers, rhinestones and brooches, silk greens, ribbon flowers all can be hot glued into the Bow for more color and dramatic effect.
Pew Ribbons and Swags (Loops) are lengths of ribbon which connect Pew Bows decorations or arrangements. This leaves the center aisle closed and Guests must be seated from the outer aisles. Very useful when using an aisle runner. The swags may also be done in lace, tulle, organza, fresh or silk garlands, fabrics anything which works with your Wedding Theme.
The ribbon should curve to or just below the seat of the pew or chair. A longer, lower swag allows people to step over ribbon to seat themselves, this may trip someone and cause harm. Swags can also be used on railings, stage borders or the backs of chairs. They can be long and sweeping or held tight across the top with material draping below. Try using a Pew Wreath instead of the traditional Pew Bow to attach your Swags. Tied to the chair with ribbon it provides an attachment with out harming chair.
The swags can skip over pews or stop and start. The exact display will be determined by the number or pews or chairs and the number of people expected to attend the Wedding Ceremony. If it is a large area with too much seating, it is best to do only the first 10 to 12 pews, 5 to 6 rows on each side.
Another style for long aisle walkways or large pew areas is a random scattering of the Pew decorations or arrangements on pews or chairs. These arrangements should be of medium to large size to create a full effect. Garlands or swags can also be used. The final count will be influenced by your budget and Wedding Theme.
Use of unusual materials like grape vine or chain can enhance your Wedding Theme.
Another style for long aisle walkways or large pew areas is a random scattering of the Pew decorations or arrangements on pews or chairs. These arrangements should be of medium to large size to create a full effect. Garlands or swags can also be used. The final count will be influenced by your budget and Wedding Theme.
Use of unusual materials like grape vine or chain can enhance your Wedding Theme.
Parent and Family Pews/Chairs are first 2 to 3 pews closest to the Altar area. Special consideration should be paid to the Parents/ Family pews or chairs. These Bows should be special in some way to make them stand out. Here is an opportunity to single out the people who have helped you in your life with out saying it in words. There any number of things with which to embellish with. Extra flowers, more greens, bigger bow. These arrangements can be transfer to Reception as a special centerpiece, addition to Head Table decorations or on the Guest Book Table.
Also consider the last pew for decoration. These chairs or pews will be the first thing Your Guest will as the approach the site. Pew Bows here or ribbons can create a welcoming statement.
Pew Markers are poles which accentuate Pew locations and help line the aisle.They can be free standing or attach to pews. You can usually obtained from a rental agency. However, some churches do have them so, always check first. These Pew Markers bolt to or clip on the pew. (*Hint: place a small scrap of cloth between clip and pew on both sides to prevent scratching of surfaces and obtain a snug fit.)
They are found in single, double and three candle. Glass chimneys can vary, some varieties even use votive cups. They make an elegant addition to Candelabras at the Altar and help provide a warm ambiance for late afternoon or evening Weddings.
They are found in single, double and three candle. Glass chimneys can vary, some varieties even use votive cups. They make an elegant addition to Candelabras at the Altar and help provide a warm ambiance for late afternoon or evening Weddings.
Stanchions and Pillars, A stanchion is a upright pole or post used to designate a pathway. In many Wedding events they are used like Pew Markers. Pillars of 24” to 36” can also be used indoors or outdoors. Both items can be rented, bought or made by hand. Take into consideration the levelness of the ground when using these outdoors. Their bases must be flat to stand with decorations or arrangements attached. May need to be anchored in to the ground with spikes. Be sure to check this out and make note when surveying the Ceremony location.
Pew Decorations and Arrangements
So far the discussion has been on The Pew Bow, although many of the pictures are a mix of Pew Bows and Pew Decorations or Arrangements. The best way to define Pew Decorations from Pew Arrangements would be in the mechanics of making them.
Pew Decorations evolve the hand wiring of all of the elements (Ex: ribbons, bows, flowers, greens et.), then assembling them into a final product.
Pew Arrangements involve floral foam and some sort of holder; the elements are put directly into the floral foam with little to no wiring.
Pew Decorations have a limited water source through moist cotton or water tubes, where the Pew Arrangements have a water source in the floral foam. Both can be cost effective with in a limited budget. They provide a Ceremony decoration that can be reused at the Reception.
When considering Pew Bows, Pew Decorations or Arrangements be sure to talk with church or site on their policy for attaching decorations to their pews or chairs. When unable to use pews or chairs for decoration consider stanchions or pillars to attach Pew Bows, Decorations or Arrangements.
Four methods of attachment follow;
1. Pew Clips are the best reliable way to attach pew bows, decorations or arrangements without damage to surfaces. Not recommend for chairs.
2. Rubber Bands can be useful, be sure they are at least 1/4” thick. Depending on bow or decoration you may need several rubber bands to counter weight. Not usually used with chairs but may provide a means to anchor wired decoration if chair has space on top of seat back.
3. Chenille wire is used to attach Pew Bows or Decorations to chairs or pew clips and is not harmful to surfaces. Although a cotton or plastic coated wire could be used and still not harm surfaces.
4. Ribbons or Tulle can be used but does not offer a snug or tight fit. Can also be used as a covering, tied over mechanics on chairs or pews.
Four methods of attachment follow;
1. Pew Clips are the best reliable way to attach pew bows, decorations or arrangements without damage to surfaces. Not recommend for chairs.
2. Rubber Bands can be useful, be sure they are at least 1/4” thick. Depending on bow or decoration you may need several rubber bands to counter weight. Not usually used with chairs but may provide a means to anchor wired decoration if chair has space on top of seat back.
3. Chenille wire is used to attach Pew Bows or Decorations to chairs or pew clips and is not harmful to surfaces. Although a cotton or plastic coated wire could be used and still not harm surfaces.
4. Ribbons or Tulle can be used but does not offer a snug or tight fit. Can also be used as a covering, tied over mechanics on chairs or pews.
Using only one type of green, such as ivy or plummosa, becomes a subtle touch when combined with other Wedding decorations. When creating Pew Decorations take into consideration itʼs size and weight. Too many stems (flowers and greens) may create a top-heavy decoration. Many times this can be countered with long greens to cascade down over lower stems
Note: Special arrangements should be made with Someone to pickup the Pew Bows, Decorations or Arrangements, transport them and place them at the Reception site. Have designated spots pre-marked to avoid delays or use a floor map. It is important that this person not be involved in the Wedding Party as they will be tied up with pictures after the Ceremony. And thus, leaving blank Guest Tables at the Reception until you arrive.
Note: Special arrangements should be made with Someone to pickup the Pew Bows, Decorations or Arrangements, transport them and place them at the Reception site. Have designated spots pre-marked to avoid delays or use a floor map. It is important that this person not be involved in the Wedding Party as they will be tied up with pictures after the Ceremony. And thus, leaving blank Guest Tables at the Reception until you arrive.
Pew Arrangements will create the big show when used with other Ceremony pieces and can provide Guest Table Centerpieces at the Reception. By being made in floral foam and a holder, Pew Arrangements provide the flowers with a good source of water and more surface area to arrange the flowers in. This can be important during hot seasons or when flowers will be out doors. It is this type of pew adornment which gives you the biggest show for your money. Not recommended for chair use but can be adapted.
Pew Clips with floral foam attachments work the best for support of this type of pew adornment. They provide a plastic 4”x4” cage to house the floral foam with sufficient area to hold a 6” - 10” width arrangement with bow; length of arrangement can be a minimum of 12” up to 24” - 36”. The arrangement should not extend above the pew or chair over 6 inches. This is to not obscure the Guest view or hinder their seating. The actual size of the Pew Arrangement will depend on the size and shape of pew. Detach arrangement from clip to reuse on tables at Reception.
Pew Clips with floral foam attachments work the best for support of this type of pew adornment. They provide a plastic 4”x4” cage to house the floral foam with sufficient area to hold a 6” - 10” width arrangement with bow; length of arrangement can be a minimum of 12” up to 24” - 36”. The arrangement should not extend above the pew or chair over 6 inches. This is to not obscure the Guest view or hinder their seating. The actual size of the Pew Arrangement will depend on the size and shape of pew. Detach arrangement from clip to reuse on tables at Reception.
A Pew Clip with vase attachment has a 4” over all size. This container provides a taller, more all around arrangement. More flowers are used in creating this larger arrangement. This Pew Arrangement sits higher on the pew. Special consideration should be taken during assembly to avoid an arrangement which is too large for pew, and if being reused at Reception, itʼs size for centerpiece use. This container can also house a small 4” size blooming plant.
A Pew Holder provides the largest surface area for arranging. Itʼs three inch diameter of caged floral foam attached to a pew handle, slips easily over large width pews. This pew holder is best for larger, stylized pew arrangements with large stemmed flowers, multiple stems and/or greens. However, it is not as easily detached from plastic clip for use as centerpiece. The handle must be cut off with clippers or shears, so special precautions must be made at Reception to accommodate this.
Pew Markers and Candle Holders are especially dramatic for late afternoon and evening Weddings. These additions to the decorations help raise the eye up from the shoulder level. With many large churches come very high ceilings, these decorations help fill the area toward the ceiling with candles and decorations enhancing the Wedding Theme.
Any of the Pew Bow or Pew Decorations can be used when decorating these pole structures. Larger pieces must be specially adapted to be attached to poles. Arrangements can be attached below the candle holder to cascade down or attached at pew level. Simple methods of tulle wrapping and greens or greens and ribbons alone can turn plain into elegant. Special arrangements must be made to have candles lit before and after the Ceremony.
At an Out Door or Home Wedding, use Shepard’s Hooks that stick in to the ground, to mark the pews or chairs. Buy them at hardware or garden stores. You can use 1 or 2 of the above described decorating choices but a wired mason jar or other vase like container filled with Wedding flowers works the best.
Potted Plants and Topiaries. Many Weddings take place outside the church where the use of pew markers is not feasible but, some type of designation of the pews or chairs is desired. Tall potted plants, in silk or fresh, can be an option. Plants such as the ficus benjamina or a palm combined with bows and or twinkle lights can add to the Wedding ambiance. Topiaries of blooming or green plants (in fresh or silk) can be decorated in Wedding colors enhancing the Wedding Theme.
Pool and Fountain These special decoration has become very trendsetting for Home Weddings and places like Country Clubs and destination Weddings where a pool or fountain that will feature with in the Ceremony or Reception location. Afternoon and evening events are made especially dramatic with candles and in pool lighting Fountains bring the ambiance that only the sound of moving water can achieve. Designs can range from the simplest of scattered flower heads and petals or votive candles floating in the water to lush floral arrangements from top to bottom. Use Pillar candles, open flame or electric, in tall cylinder containers or decorative lanterns set along the edge. Even the smallest of candles, the Tea Light, can bring a warm ambiance when a few dozen are placed along the edge of a fountain or pool. Potted plants, either green or blooming, can be used to decorate a dry fountain. Talk with the site to find the best way to decorate the area for Your Wedding. For Today’s Pool there are stage like structures which will allow You to walk on to, or over, the pool for a Ceremony, dance floor or display your Cake, and later the Cake Cutting Ceremony. Pool Floats are generally built on a Styrofoam base and can be covered with ribbon, moss, candles, fresh greens and flowers, or in combinations. Once a shape is decided, an arrangement in Wedding flowers is made directly on to the prepared base by using a caged floral foam, pins or floral glue. Large Candles and votive holders can also be incorporated in to the design. Lanterns are very popular for this arrangement style, and for use along edge of pool. It is very important that any floral foam and candles are attached securely to the base so it will not detach during transport or placement. The size of the floating arrangement will depend on the size of the pool and budget constraints. It is very important that any floral foam and candles are attached securely to the styrofoam base so it will not detach during transport or placement. The size of the floating arrangement will depend on the size of the pool and budget constraints. Umbrellas have become a clever floating device with flowers arranged at the center and on handle. Inflatable objects like swans, rings or spheres (some with internal lighting) are used to decorate in this manner. Balloons have found their place in pool decorations, large balloons floating on the water or floating above signally or in clusters. Wedding Couples will also have their initials in monogram form with flowers, or not, placed in the pool. Other choices are words like “Congrats” or “Love”. And phrases like “Love Is..” or “Best Day Ever”. Find these oversized letters on the internet. An innovated Pool Flower design uses the Hula Hoop as a corral for floating flowers. Wrap the circle in Wedding color ribbon or spray with paint, fill with flower heads, petals or floating candles. There are many battery operated floating candles along with the open flame types in sizes of 2 and 3 inches and there are also, submersible battery operated lights in different colors to use for more ambience under the water. Look for these on line, at a Floral Wholesaler, pool supply stores or craft store in your area. When placing a Floating Arrangements or candles in a pool or fountain, it will have a tendency to drift to the sides. By using fishing line or ribbon attached to the float and to the sides of the pool you can position the float where you like. Another option is to use the fishing line and weights to anchor the float to the bottom of the pool. You may need to experiment with the weights to find the correct weight amount for your float to keep it stationary. Single flowers and candles for floating in spas or fountains can also be made stationary in this manner. |
Here in United States, Car Decorations are the last item You would think of when planning your Ceremony Flowers, but should be on that List of Flowers needed. As You arrive at Your Ceremony site before the Event or are leaving for the Reception, the vehicle should be included in the festive occasion.
So many Brides will decorate with tissue pom poms, ribbons and tulle. Some will use flowers, and others will buy premade signs and decorations. But other Car Decorating rituals of different countries are fast catching on here. The designs range from simple to elaborate, made from flowers, fabrics, ribbons and attaching structures. There is also a wide range of complexity in designs, from the simple singe flower to a full car enclosure of flowers, greens and ribbons.
The Cymbidium Orchids, on the first car, look like they have been thrown on to the beautiful white Car hood, but have been strung bead like on a coated wire and attached to the car with clear suction cups to create the design.
Use yards of tulle or organza to cover a Car front to back, secured with beautiful floral arrangements. A tulle and ribbon design fanned out over the hood of a Car, highlighted with floral arrangements in front of Passenger and side mirrors.
There are wide ribbons used with miniature floral arrangements. Adorable stuffed Bears attached at the Car’s grill with tulle and flowers. Coated wires in a variety of designs and colors are fashioned in to different shapes and adorned with flowers, feathers, jewels and ribbons-Give the appearance of floating on the Car.
Singe Arrangements, in different shapes and sizes, adorn the hood usually on the Passenger side. There are also, designs that incorporated the windshield and up on to the roof of the Car.
The well at the base of the windshield, a perfect place to put a floral garland attach to whipper arms.
Hearts are the favorite design to do many of the large sculptures that encompass the whole Car hood. Most of these larger designs use a anti-slip tape to hold the many parts in place.
The well at the base of the windshield, a perfect place to put a floral garland attach to whipper arms.
Hearts are the favorite design to do many of the large sculptures that encompass the whole Car hood. Most of these larger designs use a anti-slip tape to hold the many parts in place.
Not sold on the whole Car decorations? The Sides and Back can be adorned in a simpler fashion. While having after Ceremony pictures taken, have Bridesmaids attach Pew Bows to waiting Car door handles. A Basic bow and flower can be added to limousine side mirrors with suction cup for quick pop off in Wedding color. Flowers attached by long ribbons can be hand tied to secure, where allowed. Small wreaths of Baby’s Breath or other fresh flowers add a personal touch. Other designs like small bouquets are attached above the handle. The innovated design of paper cones with small bouquets tucked inside are attached top and bottom with clear suction cups to the door of the Car. As are the series of Bows with Roses and greens. The Back of the Car is traditionally the place for tin cans and old shoes, a more modern take on this still includes the cans but with personal messages printed (from a computer) and tied with ribbons. if noise is an issue, created a tail of tulle bows or ribbons. Banners are a favorite for the back window. The “Just Married” sign is seeing new ways to decorated with flowers and greens. The place to find more ideas is on the Web. Go and find one to tie in with Your Wedding Theme. Talk with Your Floral Designer about adding this idea to Your Event. When ever considering decorating others property, such as rented vehicles, be sure to ask and find out if there are any restrictions. Consider the distance you will drive, if on freeway or city streets. Some of the mentioned Car decorations may not withstand freeway driving and a city street route would be better. Time allowed for transit between sites should also be considered. |