subject: About Courtyard Weddings [print this page] 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.
In Europe, as is true anywhere, having a courtyard was a way to provide an escape from the world. This is especially convenient for urban centers and towns that had little outdoor space. The courtyard became a place of beauty and a place to socialize. Today, courtyards still share the same purpose, but also host weddings, conferences and more.
European courtyards employ stone and brick as opposed to courtyards designed with flora and fauna. While European courtyards are dressed with manicured shrubbery and flowers, these are not the main element. Here the main focal point is on the architectural details, which include arches, flagstones, fireplaces and more.
Today's courtyards often might bring in hand cut brick and lay it out in a herringbone pattern, or it might have marble columns salvaged from historical buildings. Hand quarried marble from across the country may also add to the architectural elements of the place.
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.
Another benefit of a courtyard is it allows an intermingling of the indoors and outdoors. When fire pits were set up in ancient days, the purpose was to ventilate the smoke so it wasn't contained in living quarters. Today, the pleasure of being outside is much more simplistic. We like to see the days pass by. A courtyard wedding allows for a private enclosure while still having access to the outdoors. Manicured landscapes and hardscapes can create a timeless feel.
The United States is ripe with wedding venues that offer European styled courtyards. Having a wedding at any one of these venues will set a tone of timelessness, elegance and intimacy. Whether you choose to fly to Europe or find a destination within the US, there will be no doubt, the courtyard wedding will be a hit.
Do a search for courtyard wedding and have a celebration that will be unique for you and your closest friends and family.
by: Elaine Henshaw
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