Some wedding themes never go out of style. A vintage wedding theme might honor the past, but its novel design and chic approach ensure this style is always in vogue. Best of all, this versatile theme can accommodate everything from a modern to a rustic touch.
At PartySlate, we search through thousands of real wedding albums to find the best wedding ideas and inspiration. Keep reading to discover our top vintage wedding theme ideas for an old-fashioned, yet totally fashionable, celebration. It’s time to rediscover the appeal of lace, crystal, gilded elements, and more.
1. Vintage Photo Ops
The newlyweds pose in front of a baby blue 1965 convertible that once belonged to the bride’s grandmother — proving some styles never go out of fashion.
photographer: KT Merry Photography | Daughter of Design
See More2. Brooch Wedding Bouquet
This bride repurposed her mother’s original wedding dress and grandmother’s vintage jewelry to create a custom-made couture wedding bouquet — all with the help of a talented designer.
photographer: Abella Studios | Forever Brooch Bouquets
See More3. Wax Seal Invitations
Make your mark before the celebration even begins with invitations pressed with a wax seal. Moreover, incorporate your custom monogram for a personalized touch.
photographer: Daniel Kim Photography | Victoria York Design
See More4. Feathery Fashions
A bride makes her recessional exit in high fashion. A feathered headpiece and bouquet set the tone for this glamorous vintage wedding. We especially love how the flowers complement the groom’s velvet jacket for a seamless wedding color theme.
photographer: Judah Avenue Photography | Perfect Planning Events
See More5. Wrought Iron Décor
Wrought iron conjures everything from fairytale gardens to Parisian estates. Capture the artistry of years past with a wrought iron gazebo and seating.
photographer: Andrew Weeks Photography
See More6. Vintage Lanterns
Suspended vintage lanterns bring old-world charm to an exchange of vows. We also love how a wooden room divider reimagines the traditional wedding arch.
photographer: Erin and Geoffrey Photography | Firefly Ambiance
See More7. Vintage Luggage Trunks
Much like Ellis Island of old, a wedding represents future hopes and dreams. Cue the energy of old-school New York with vintage luggage trunks for the trip of a lifetime.
photographer: Nolan Conway | Nova Events by Greta McNebb
See More8. Ceremonial Pew Seating
In an age of mass production, distinguish your wedding ceremony with repurposed church pews, mixed with bentwood cafe chairs. Click “See More” to see how vintage-style rugs brought an eclectic touch to these outdoor nuptials.
photographer: Lynette Boyle Photography | Madix & Co.
See More8. Vintage Wedding Theme Baskets
We love vintage materials that come to life in an artist’s hands. Take baskets, for one. Vintage baskets make for beautiful centerpieces, photo ops, and other décor opportunities.
photographer: Laurie Bracewell Photography | Something Fabulous
See More9. Antique Gilt Frames
Antique gilt frames bring vintage glamour to everything from signage to escort walls. Moreover, gilt frames work well with hybrid wedding styles, such as this vintage-industrial wedding celebration.
photographer: Jacqui Cole Photography | Tracie Domino Events
See More10. Baby’s Breath Décor
While baby’s breath is hotter than ever, this dreamy flower harkens back to Victorian gardens. Whether as a centerpiece or wedding arch, baby’s breath brings romantic vibes to any vintage wedding.
photographer: Gloria Mesa Photography | Gloria Mesa Photography
See More11. Vintage Doily Linen
12. Vintage Wedding Theme Typewriters
Immerse guests with an engaging activity that incorporates your vintage wedding theme. We love how this couple invited guests to type a heartfelt note. Too tipsy to type? No problem. Vintage vinyls were on hand, as well.
photographer: Chellise Michael Photography | Nova Events by Greta McNebb
See More13. Wedding Gift Card Bird Cages
Keep your wedding cards secure with a vintage bird cage crafted from wrought iron or distressed wood. Trust us, your wedding photographer will approve.
photographer: Jacqui Cole Photography | Tracie Domino Events
See More14. Vintage Chinaware
Give guests the royal treatment with beautifully-designed vintage chinaware at each place setting. You can also use fine china to incorporate your wedding color palette.
photographer: Adam Opris Photography | Luxurious Events
See More15. Vintage Décor Elements
Create beautiful vignettes with vintage décor elements that capture your era of choice. Guests will love posing with such fun and unique items.
photo courtesy of: Pat Frey Designs
See More16. Vintage Book Centerpieces
It’s true: reading never goes out of style. Still, we love how vintage books harken back to the days before smartphones and TVs. We will easily forgive any guests that indulge in some light reading during the repast.
photographer: Christine Glebov Photography
See More17. Vintage Lace
A wedding dress isn’t the only place for vintage lace. Use vintage lace to decorate tablescapes (and even seating) for a romantic and dreamy vibe.
photographer: Erika Grace Photography
See More18. Shimmering Crystal Décor
Add vintage European glamour to any wedding reception with crystal candelabras. We especially love how tall tapered candles and velvet linen bring pops of color to this refined tablescape.
photographer: Rodrigo Varela Photography | Plan Design Events
See More19. French Bergère Lounge Area
With upholstered French bergère seating, lounging has never looked more elegant. We love how glittering chandeliers and a vintage rug transform the outdoors into a stylish living room fit for a palace.
photographer: Jessica Claire Photography | Imagine…Weddings & Special Events
See More20. Gilt Vintage Wedding Theme Cake
Add molding, aka gold icing, to your wedding cake for vintage appeal. Dessert has never looked sweeter.
photographer: Jacqui Cole Photography | Tracie Domino Events
See MorePeople Also Ask…
What are some vintage wedding theme styles?
Vintage wedding themes vary — with plenty of room for a fresh and creative approach. Click on the following vintage wedding styles to add your own flair to this unique theme.
What kind of entertainment should I include in my vintage wedding?
In addition to a live band or DJ, consider entertainment that will augment your wedding theme. For a 1940s theme wedding, for example, consider dressing the part and performing a first dance foxtrot. On the other hand, a more retro vintage wedding could feature a vinyl record DJ booth. Make sure to talk to your wedding planner to come up with other creative ways to incorporate entertainment into your vintage celebration.
Where can I find a venue for my vintage wedding?
Head to PartySlate’s curated venue directory to find an available event space for your vintage celebration. Make sure to narrow your search location, guest count, and amenities for the best results.