If you’ve ever dreamed of stepping back in time to celebrate your love in a retro-inspired wedding, you’re not alone! Vintage weddings are making a resurgence, allowing couples to embrace nostalgia and create a unique atmosphere that reflects their personalities. From the elegance of the Roaring Twenties to the boldness of the 1980s, planning a retro wedding can be a delightful adventure. Here’s a guide to help you navigate the enchanting world of vintage vibes.
Choose Your Decade
The first step in planning a retro-inspired wedding is to decide which decade speaks to you. Each era offers distinct styles, colours, and vibes:
1920s Gatsby Glamour: Think flapper dresses, feather headbands, and Art Deco elements. Use gold, black, and white for a sophisticated colour palette. Incorporate vintage champagne glasses and jazz music to enhance the atmosphere.
Courtesy of Old Hollywood Glamour
1950s Rockabilly: Embrace playful polka dots, petticoats, and retro hairstyles. Opt for pastel colours like mint green, blush pink, and baby blue, and consider classic diner-inspired food stations for a fun twist.
Courtesy of Alternative Disco Wedding
1970s Bohemian: For a free-spirited vibe, think flowing fabrics, flower crowns, and earthy tones. Use macramé and vintage lace to decorate your venue, and consider a laid-back outdoor setting.
Courtesy of 70’s Retro Elopement
1980s Bright and Bold: If you want to celebrate the vibrant colours and eclectic styles of the ’80s, think neon colours, big hair, and statement accessories. Create a lively atmosphere with retro music and playful decor, like cassette tape centrepieces.
Courtesy of A Modern 80s Twist: Memphis Style Meets Marie Antoinette
Attire
Once you’ve chosen your decade, it’s time to curate your wedding attire. Each era has its signature looks:
Bridal Attire: Seek out vintage gowns or modern replicas that reflect your chosen decade. Consider incorporating unique details like feathers, beading, or dramatic silhouettes.
Groom’s Outfit: From tailored suits with bow ties for the ’20s to vibrant, patterned suits for the ’70s, choose an ensemble that complements your theme. Don’t shy away from accessories like suspenders, hats, or funky socks.
Bridal Party: Coordinate your bridal party’s attire to match your theme, selecting colours and styles that fit the era you’ve chosen. For instance, matching pastel dresses for a ’50s theme or bright, geometric prints for an ’80s celebration.
Venue
The venue can significantly impact the retro vibe of your wedding. Look for locations that echo your chosen decade:
Historic Mansions or Ballrooms: Perfect for a Gatsby-inspired wedding, these venues exude elegance and charm.
Courtesy of Intimate Wedding at Parkwood Estate
Retro Diners or Classic Cars: Ideal for a ’50s or ’80s theme, these locations can add a playful touch to your celebration.
Courtesy of Rock n’ Roll Bridal Style
Outdoor Gardens or Barns: A bohemian or rustic venue complements the laid-back vibe of the ’70s.
Courtesy of A Romantic and Intimate Elopement at Sanctuary Gardens
Vintage Decor
To enhance the retro atmosphere, pay attention to your decor:
Table Settings: Use mismatched vintage china, antique silverware, and colourful glassware. Consider centrepieces featuring flowers in retro hues, such as sunflowers, daisies, or peonies.
Courtesy of Sparkling Blush Styled Shoot
Lighting: Incorporate string lights, chandeliers, or candlelit lanterns to create a warm ambiance.
Courtesy of Chic Retro Wedding Inspiration From Calgary, Alberta
Signage: Use vintage-style signs for directions, menus, and seating arrangements. Consider incorporating playful typography to reflect your theme.
Courtesy of City Love in a Neon Jungle
Create a Retro Menu
The food and beverage choices should also reflect your vintage theme:
Signature Cocktails: Craft cocktails inspired by your chosen decade. For a ’20s theme, serve classic gin fizzes or champagne cocktails. For the ’70s, try fun, fruity drinks served in colourful glasses.
Nostalgic Food: Offer appetizers and entrees that reflect the era, from classic hors d’oeuvres to comfort food favourites.
Capture the Moments
Don’t forget to document your special day in style:
Photography: Hire a photographer who understands the vintage aesthetic. Consider posing with props like vintage cars or retro furniture.
Videography: Capture your day with a videographer who can create a film with a nostalgic feel, perhaps using black-and-white or sepia tones.
Conclusion
Planning a retro-inspired wedding is a chance to express your love for a specific era while creating lasting memories. By choosing a decade, curating your attire, selecting the perfect venue, and incorporating vintage decor, you can craft a wedding that celebrates your unique love story. Embrace the vintage vibes and let your wedding day be a joyful reflection of the past!
