Introduction
The floral arch is often the most dramatic — and expensive — arrangement at a wedding. It is the ceremony focal point, the backdrop for vows, and the setting for every ceremony photo.
Understanding arch pricing helps you set expectations and create profitable proposals.
Wedding Arch Costs by Style
| Arch Style | Flower Cost | Labor | Total Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Corner/Accent Cluster | $150 - $350 | $50-100 | $200 - $450 |
| Asymmetrical (one side) | $300 - $700 | $75-150 | $375 - $850 |
| Half Arch | $500 - $1,200 | $100-200 | $600 - $1,400 |
| Full Arch | $800 - $2,500 | $150-350 | $950 - $2,850 |
| Lush/Dripping Full Arch | $1,500 - $4,000+ | $250-500 | $1,750 - $4,500+ |
What Drives Arch Costs
Stem Count
The biggest variable. A full arch requires 150-400+ stems depending on lushness:
| Arch Type | Typical Stems | Greenery Ratio |
|---|---|---|
| Corner Cluster | 30-60 | 40% greenery |
| Asymmetrical | 60-120 | 50% greenery |
| Half Arch | 100-200 | 50% greenery |
| Full Arch | 200-350 | 40% greenery |
| Ultra-Lush Full | 350-500+ | 30% greenery |
Flower Selection
Using standard roses at $3/stem versus garden roses at $7/stem doubles the flower cost for the same design. For a 250-stem full arch:
- Standard roses + greenery: ~$500 wholesale
- Garden roses + premium greenery: ~$1,200 wholesale
- Peonies + orchids + premium greenery: ~$2,500+ wholesale
Labor and Installation
Arch installation is labor-intensive:
- Design and preparation: 2-4 hours in studio
- Transportation: Loading, driving, unloading
- On-site installation: 1.5-3 hours depending on complexity
- Breakdown: 30-60 minutes
- Total labor per arch: 5-9 hours
At $50/hour, that is $250-450 in labor alone.
Arch Structure Rental
If the couple does not have an arch, add rental costs:
| Structure | Rental Cost |
|---|---|
| Wood arbor | $75 - $200 |
| Metal arch | $50 - $150 |
| Circle/moon gate | $100 - $250 |
| Acrylic/lucite | $150 - $350 |
| Custom built | $200 - $500+ |
Repurposing Strategy
Smart florists propose repurposing the arch arrangement for the reception — moving the arch flowers to the sweetheart table, cake table, or entrance. This adds value for the couple and justifies the investment.
Budget-Friendly Arch Alternatives
- Asymmetrical cluster — One dramatic corner costs 40-60% less than a full arch
- Greenery-heavy — Smilax, eucalyptus, and ruscus fill an arch at lower cost than flowers
- Dried elements — Pampas grass and dried palms create drama at lower cost
- Fabric + minimal flowers — Draping with flower accents at attachment points
How to Propose Arch Pricing
Always present arch pricing with a photo or rendering. Abstract pricing feels expensive; visual pricing feels like an investment. Use WPro.AI to create visual proposals that show couples exactly what their arch will look like alongside the itemized cost.
Conclusion
Arch pricing is where florists can earn significant revenue — but only with accurate cost tracking. Account for every stem, every hour of labor, and every mile of delivery. Your arch work is a centerpiece of the ceremony — price it accordingly.
Related: How to Price Wedding Flowers | Wedding Centerpiece Pricing Guide | Luxury Wedding Flowers
