Hot tip: If you pick a ceremony spot where mother nature is front and center, you’ll save yourself a ton of time, fuss and money on shipping in decor. Want proof? Below, 13 times when an epic natural backdrop stole the show in photos, dictated the vibe and, really, made the whole darn wedding.
13 Wedding Backdrops Inspired by Mother Nature
Tree Canopy
This lucky couple said their vows beneath a magnificent old tree strung with twinkly lights, which hung down around them like vines.
Photography: Three16 Photography; Venue: Calamigos Ranch Malibu; Event Planner: Amy Greenberg Events
Pond-side Perection
Set against a serene pond, all this couple needed was a simple altar draped in white gauze (and buckets of sunshine).
Photography: Danielle Riley Photography
Oak Majesty
We love the symbolism of saying your “I dos” next to a strong, ancient tree with branches reaching toward the sky.
Photography: Emily Michelle Photography; Venue: Broussard Farm; Florals: La Belle Fleur
Vineyard Romance
For a ceremony set against the rolling hills of wine country, a delicate twig altar was wrapped in grape vines. Le swoon.
Photography: Rebecca Hicks Photography; Venue: Chattooga Belle Farm; Florals: The Flower Patch and Heartwarmers Florist
Desert Arena
With a natural backdrop such as this, opt for a sunset ceremony and a simple wooden altar (and maybe a few boho touches for emphasis).
Photography: Poppyseed Photography; Decor: Thunder & Twine; Florals: Arizona Florations and Flower Fix; Venue: The Paseo; Equipment rentals: I Do Rentals and Material Girl Weddings
Hawaiian-inspired
Following an elopement in Hawaii, this enterprising couple recreated the moment at home with oversize palm fronds, citrusy blooms and a vintage rattan folding screen as their altar.
Photography: Kristina Staal Photography; Event designer: Carrie Wilcox Floral Design; Equipment rentals: Gather and Lounge; Event planner: Borrowed, A Vintage Inspired Company
Bay Views
Umm, where is this perfectly placid, palm-framed venue and, more importantly, how can we book it for our own nuptials?
Photography: His & Hers Creative; Venue: Key Largo Lighthouse Beach Weddings; Event planner: Cate Tenopir Events

Backyard Magic
This sweet couple crafted a wood plank “stage” beneath a gorgeous old evergreen tree for their vow exchange.
Photography: Sikora Photography
Natural Amphitheater
We’re swooning over this woodsy setting: a hillside “theater” overlooking a crater lake.
Photography: Dreamlove Photography
Mountaintop Mood
For this intimate ceremony, guests enjoyed a backdrop of stunning mountain views in every direction.
Photography: Dreamlove Photography; Venue: Bascom Lodge

Laid-back Lakefront
An ecru-curtained altar set against a peaceful lake and framed by swaying greenery is straightforward and lovely.
Photographer: Rebecca Griffith Photography; Venue: Lake Tyler Petroleum Club; Florals: La Tee Da
Woodland Whimsy
For a ceremony set in the woods, a birch branch altar hung with origami birds made a magical spot for vow exchanging.
Photographer: Clane Gessel Photography; Venue: Chalet View Lodge; Event Designer: Quality Event Design, Signature Events by Christina

Driftwood Drama
For this beachy service, a simple altar fashioned from found branches matched the wild and rugged coastline.
Photography: Sikora Photography