For us, the better question is not “what is most popular?” but “what will look best in this specific space?”
The room or outdoor area dictates the design. The same graduation party may need a completely different plan if it is moved from a backyard to a house, from a house to a venue, or from outside into a tent.
For example, if we are planning an outdoor graduation and there is a chance of rain, we often need two plans: one for outside and one for inside. A large outdoor arch may not work indoors if the ceiling is too low. In that case, columns or another structure may look better and avoid making the ceiling feel even lower. Outside, we cannot hang ceiling décor because there is no ceiling; inside, that may become a beautiful option.
So the answer depends on the space, the ceiling height, the weather plan, the number of guests, and the overall feeling you want. During the first consultation, we will discuss the location and quickly determine what will look best there. If needed, we can also meet at the venue, backyard, park, or event location and make recommendations on-site.