Thinking of a Tasmanian vintage wedding?

One of the hottest wedding trends this year is the vintage themed wedding.  Thanks to popular shows like Downton Abbey and movies like Baz Lurhman’s Great Gatsby, it is showing no signs of slowing down. Brides to be are being inspired by the beauty and glamour of 1920s style and fashion - think old Hollywood glamour, art deco jewellery, soft romantic colours and crystal chandeliers.

These vintage touches evoke the nostalgia and beauty of a bygone era, reminding us to slow down, savour the moment and linger in the company of those we love.  With a little care and thought, it is easy to incorporate vintage styling into your own wedding day.  Here are our top tips and tricks to recreate the perfect touches for your own vintage inspired wedding.

Venue

Start by selecting the right venue. The right building and location will set the tone for your whole wedding. A large conference centre or function room won’t whisk your guests away to a bygone era in the same way that a beautiful old building will. 

Fortunately here in Tasmania there are beautiful wedding venues such as the Villa Howden which perfectly capture the essence of a bygone era. So look for a venue that will not only cater to your event needs, but also provides a romantic and chic background for the occasion.  

Dresses - Bridal gown

The next key item is to choose a vintage or vintage-inspired bridal gown.  Whether you borrow your grandma’s dress or have a modern dress tailored with a vintage-twist to suit your needs, there are a number of touches that will ensure your gown has the right vintage look.

Lace, lace and more lace is the order of the day.  Look for pretty detailing with pearls and accessorise with petite gloves, stoles and headpieces.  Full length and flowing silhouettes are key, and rather than the modern strapless look, go for a halter neck design or add capped sleeves, either with material or lace.

Jewellery items should be art-deco inspired, whether worn in your hair, headpiece or as a bracelet or necklace.  Look for new or antique pieces showcasing rhinestones, crystals, intricate clasps and pearls.

Flower girls

Make sure you continue your vintage theme throughout the bridal party, not forgetting the use of flower girls.  The addition of freshly strewn flower petals is classically romantic.  Choose vintage soft rose colours mixed with flowers in lilac, pale lemons or creams rather than bold reds, stark white or modern bright colours.  Dress your flower girls in lace socks and pretty full tulle skirts with matching cashmere cardigans to complete the look.  

Indoor or outdoor

A vintage themed wedding works perfectly for indoor or outdoor events.  On sunny days a parasol would not be out of place, and guests can sip Pimms in the garden listening to a string quartet.  White chairs on green lawns always look beautiful in summer.  Even in winter, the vintage theme works well.  Brides can rug up with faux or vintage furs, wraps, stoles, and gloves while groomsmen can wear hats, overcoats and gloves and remain stylish and chic.

Choosing a stylist

If you want a little professional help, then take your time to select the right stylist.  Do some research to begin with and research previous weddings the stylist has done, preferably with a vintage look.  Make sure you can speak freely with them about your ideas and will listen to the vision that you and your partner have for the day.  If you feel inspired and excited after speaking with a stylist, then you know you have found the right one.

Heirlooms and personal touches

More than any other wedding theme, vintage inspired wedding provide a unique opportunity to express yourselves and who you are as a couple, and a family.  Many couples incorporate family heirlooms, old photos, important pieces of jewellery or mementos into the ceremony. It is these sentimental touches which really capture the essence of the vintage wedding.

Don’t be limited to jewellery items either.  Perhaps you have a treasured old desk that has been in the family for years. Or a special photo from your grandparents wedding day in a stunning old frame.  Use these pieces for the signing table, or place them in the reception area along with the guest book for others to admire and enjoy. 

To capture the essence and nostalgia of a vintage wedding, include these details in the planning and styling of your ceremony and reception.  The vintage trend will be around for a while so you can start planning now for your wedding next year.  They are a beautiful and romantic way to celebrate your big day.

Here are some of our favourite inspirations for a gorgeous vintage themed wedding.

www.polkadotbride.com.au       
https://www.facebook.com/veniceandme?fref=ts
www.alphabetsoupbunting.etsy.com

Villa Howden images: courtesy of Villa Howden
Words: Clarissa Baggio from Venice & Me  Vintage styled flower girls (photo credit  figtreepictures.com)
Vintage wedding styling by www.alphabetsoupbunting.etsy.com (photo credit danielledarcyphotography.com.au)