This past weekend, I attended a friend’s small wedding ceremony at Houston’s Japanese Garden in Hermann Park. The garden itself and two trees served as her casual altar. Her friend captured the moment beautifully.

I love simple backdrops to wedding ceremonies sans real flowers. Below are some DIY ideas I adore:

Hanging paper flowers in my favorite wedding colors, from Greenweddingshoes

A laced tree branch adds a vintage touch, from Oncewed

Colorful paper lanterns brighten up the green backdrop, from Barbara Jacksier

Hanging origami cranes look delicate, from Delightfully Engaged

Bright ribbons add a whimsical touch, from So You’re Engayged

Pendant flags allow the lake to be highlighted, from Glamour Weddings

Simple, bright balloons mark the altar, from the knot

Pinwheels are my favorite summer decor and would be pretty hanging high or as a backdrop, from The Sweetest Occasion

There are just so many wonderful alternatives to the traditional altar that you can DIY.