Building a canopy

Over this past Labor Day weekend some very dear friends of mine got married, and I had the honor and privilege of creating the chuppah to be used during the wedding ceremony.  This special element covers the couple as they exchange their nuptial vows, and is a symbol of the home they will share together.  

Using a tone-on-tone linen combination, I created a pattern inspired by the Linden tree, which I repeated and sewed on as an applique.  I consider the Linden tree to symbolize strength, resilience and plenitude--all things I wish for the newlyweds in their future together!  I also wanted the piece to come alive when the light came through and since their wedding was on the beach, it provided a great opportunity.  The piece not only created a fabric canopy (the home), but a tree-like canopy (nature) as well, connecting the indoors with outdoors.

We will be working together to transform it into an item they can use everyday in their home.  

Mazel Tov to the newlyweds!  Wishing them many years of health and happiness.

Test piece using cutouts.

Linen gets really wrinkly when you work with it.

  

Wedding photos by Shauneen Weininger