Happy April! here you counting down the minutes until the return of AMC’s hit show Mad Men? If you did you weren’t along. The fabulous, flirty stylized series set in the 1950’s is right on point with the rebirth of the retro trend. The “Vintage look” will always have a place in the hearts of stylish Brides & Grooms. When I hear a Bride and Groom say they’d like a “vintage theme” wedding it gives me a little insight into what their style may be. These couples want to infuse their wedding day with a timeless feel but they’re also smitten with the nostalgic charm of times gone by. Now the terms Vintage, Retro, and even Traditional can relate to a lot different time periods as well as themes, looks, and styles. But if the genre that presents everything from Old Hollywood Glamour to hip “Rat Pack” swagger is for you, then consider a 50’s inspired wedding.
Want to incorporate a touch of 50’s swank and splendor into your wedding? Here are just a few ways to get that bring those elements into your wedding design.
Let’s begin with your personal look. Consider “A” Line gowns with minimum beading and detailing for a fresh, playful look; or for a more royal inspired look, select full overlays of lace. By the way, does Princess Grace Kelly’s gown look familiar? Many speculate that Designer Sarah Burton was inspired by this legendary Bridal gown when designing Kate Middleton’s gown for her royal wedding.
Complete the effect with gloves for your Bridesmaids, strands of pearls and other jewelry, small vintage hats or birdcage-style veils, and well-coiffed hairdos with clean swoops, sweeping curls, or smooth up-dos.
Gentlemen, want to capture that suave, 50’s swagger? Go with the clean, classic lines of a great suit or tuxedo…that’s right, keep it simple and stylish. Also, think about including a “statement” element like hiring a Classic Car or Vintage Limousine company. It will not only add to the experience but will offer tons of fabulous photo opportunities.
Complete that swell 50’s feel with “Classic Cocktails” during your reception: Martinis, Manhattans, Sidecars, French 75, Grasshopper, etc. Concerned about your bar budget? Have your caterer create large batches of one “Signature” drink to offer during your cocktail hour such as a Harpoon (which is more affordable because it’s more juice than alcohol). Want a casual and fun yet impressive twist for a Daytime Brunch Wedding Reception? Offer guests a Bloody Mary Bar! Serve one of these as a “Signature” drink throughout your cocktail hours and it becomes a sophisticated way to set the tone for your reception.
Remember, the key to creating a fabulous 50’s inspired wedding is to choose a few elements that represent what the 50’s mean to you and then find personalized, creative, subtle, and cohesive ways to incorporate them into your wedding so it doesn’t overwhelming the overall design and spirit of the occasion. Have questions or want more ideas for other themes? Let us know what you think and… happy planning!!
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