How to Set Up a DIY Wedding Canopy

A wedding canopy (also called a chuppah or mandap) creates a beautiful setting for exchanging vows. It’s also becoming more and more popular to use canopies for the reception. Wedding canopies add a romantic backdrop for the sweetheart table and create a unique focal point for the wedding cake table. Wondering how to get the look for less? We’ll show you how to set up a DIY wedding canopy. It takes a matter of 10 minutes for setup, and there’s no experience required! As a benchmark, our DIY canopy rentals are $249 including the complete kit, 5-day rental, and free shipping both ways. Here’s how to set up a DIY canopy.

STEP 1: SETUP TRIPODS

Spread out the legs on each tripod. Position four tripods in a square formation.

STEP 2: ATTACH CROSSBARS

Place four crossbars on top of the tripods.

STEP 3: ADD DRAPES

Slide the drapes onto each crossbar. We recommend using four 5-foot wide drape panels per crossbar.

STEP 4: RAISE TRIPODS

Raise the tripods up to your desired canopy height (typically 8 – 10 feet tall).

STEP 5: GATHER FABRIC

Stand near a tripod. Pull two drapes from each side towards the tripod.

STEP 6: SECURE FABRIC WITH TIE BACKS

Secure the gathered fabric to each tripod using tiebacks.

YOU’RE DONE!

So that’s all there is to it for setting up a DIY wedding canopy! The simple white drapes create an elegant look. You can also add a glow of color by adding uplighting – just place one light near each corner of the canopy. Florals, greenery, and branches are another great way to dress up a canopy. Attach your decorations to the fabric using safety pins or fishing line. Check out some examples of these canopies in action below: