History Of The Courtyard Wedding
Courtyards originated in Iran and China around 3
,000 BC. However, most people associate courtyards with European architecture. The courtyard served many purposes, some practical and some for pleasure. For some, the courtyard housed animals, for others it was a place to gather for social events.
Courtyards were especially significant for urban areas where they became the only place a family might have privacy. Courtyard weddings by extension could become a private affair for the bride and groom and select family and friends. Courtyards have always been greatly prized in crowded European cities and now are prized in the United States for their beauty, style and elegance.
One of the key elements of a European courtyard is the use of stone and brickwork. Unlike the traditional notion of a grassy courtyard, these architectural creations incorporate greenery through potted plants, columns and arches with flowers growing up around them. The design is in the architectural elements as opposed to grassy courtyards that focus on the landscape instead of the architecture.
In some of the more elegant courtyards, hand cut brick may be found laid out in a herringbone pattern. Marble columns might rise out of the ground and arches might create a pattern within one another for dramatic hardscapes.
Fireplaces of brick, stone or marble can become a central piece in any courtyard design. Some may be indoor/outdoor creations, meaning the fireplace is useable from both indoors and outdoors. Another key element is the water fountain. They can be simple or extravagant creations that stimulate the auditory senses.
Courtyards, by their enclosed nature become a perfect place to socialize. Dance floors may be set up adjoining the courtyard for an indoor/outdoor element. Dinner may be served outdoors or the wedding ceremony may take place outside. No matter how you utilize the courtyard, it brings an element of the outdoors into the wedding design and allows guest to enjoy a little sun or a view of the stars at night.
Today there are wedding venues that have re-created traditional European courtyards. Having a courtyard wedding creates a sense of privacy, seclusion and beauty. From Italian style villas to Parisian courtyards, the hardscapes provide a dramatic backdrop for wedding photography. There are many venues through the US and Europe - the only decision becomes whether one wants an destination wedding, or a wedding close to home.
Find a courtyard wedding near or far and expect a celebration that will be remembered for a long time to come.
by: Elaine Henshaw.
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