Weddings are a time-honored tradition, and what better way to tie together the past with the present than through a vintage-inspired wedding? Couples looking to create to a rose-tinted ceremony will appreciate the nostalgic charm of antique decor, period influenced attire, and romantic decor and gestures evocative of a simpler, sweeter time.
A ‘vintage’ wedding is completely how you interpret one, whether you and your spouse are imagining the jazz and Gatsby decadence of the ‘20s, classic cars and pin up girls of the ‘50s, or the lazy free-spirit of the ‘70s. We recommend picking a single era and sticking to it, though mixing in modern touches will keep the celebration exciting and not dated. Let your guests know ahead of time of your wedding plans — half the fun is seeing how your friends and family add their own flair to your vintage theme!
Stage your wedding photos in a dessert parlor or diner to evoke the old-fashioned charm of a bygone era.
Make a vintage wedding even more meaningful by featuring old wedding photos and heirlooms from your family alongside your own romantic shots.
Thrift stores are a perfect place to pick up vintage centerpiece decor like antique candle holders and ornate picture frames.
Transferring prints to worn wood plaques is a cheap and easy way to add a homey touch to wedding signs. Classic cursive scripts work best for vintage celebrations.
Searching for something old to wear with your wedding dress? Adorn yourself with era-specific headpieces, necklaces, and bracelets from your grandmother’s jewelry box or vintage goods stores from Etsy.
We love this quirky birdcage-turned-card holder! Repurpose mailboxes, stylized mirrors, and armoires as centerpieces or tables to hold wedding cakes and favors.
Turn your venue shabby-chic by draping pale voile or organza across the rafters or doorways.
In our digital era, handwriting your vows makes for a distinctly romantic gesture that you two can preserve long after the ceremony.
Bring the vintage theme to the reception tables with beautiful cutlery, detailed dish ware, long candlesticks, and floral centerpieces.
Wedding dresses are a lovely way to pay homage to a past period — buttoned backs and chapel trains are timelessly show-stopping, while geometric patterns and sequins remain eye-catching even today.
Vintage fashion doesn’t stop at the wedding dress — for grooms and groomsmen, consider tuxedo jackets for a retro take on wedding apparel.
Forgo flowers for a feather or two to create a unique yet refined boutonniere.
Use pages from old books as wrapping paper, napkin rings, table cards, and for any other paper flourishes.
For the feeling of an refined afternoon tea, serve classic finger food like sandwiches, mini cakes, bonbons, and scones.
The traditional floral table centerpieces really shine in a vintage themed wedding. While roses are the classic choice, feel free to play with textures and colors in your arrangements.
Vintage means lots of pearls and lace: easily transform ordinary centerpieces into effortlessly elegant decor by incorporating these timeless elements.
Having a cold weather wedding? Shrug on a (faux) fur stole over your wedding dress for a look evocative of old Hollywood glamour.
Wedding cakes are a perfect way to tie together vintage aesthetics with modern trends: leave your glam red velvet and chocolate cake naked, or upgrade a classic white one with pearls, lace, and roses.
It’s not a vintage wedding unless make your first getaway as newlyweds in a vintage car!
Road trip or not, a worn leather briefcase is a delightfully vintage alternative for a purse or bag. Leave the case cracked open during reception to collect cards from guests, or store your bridal essentials inside.
Feeling inspired yet? If you’re ready to set your wedding ideas into motion, we’re here to walk you through creating a memorable marriage celebration in 26 detailed steps. Watch out for your budget as well! All those antique tables, mirrors, and candlestick centerpieces can make a vintage wedding unexpectedly pricey — map out a budget using our wedding budget checklist and stick to it to design a beautiful wedding without any of the sticker shock.
What’s your experience with being a bridesmaid? Did you have any unexpected costs that weren’t covered here? Let us know — we would love to hear from you! Plus, don’t forget to check out our Facebook and Pinterest pages for more wedding inspo!
