Whether you’re searching for ‘retro-glam’ or ‘shabby-chic’, going old-school is never out of fashion. Here’s how to put the va-va-voom into the vintage theme…
We love it, and we’ll always love it: the vintage theme never gets old! With many dress designers now catering specifically to this theme, the abundance of choice for brides can be overwhelming. With over 13 years’ experience working in the wedding industry as the Weddings Advisor at the fabulous Mapperton venue in West Dorset, Jennifer Jane Eveleigh is here to share with us her top tips for going vintage in style…
Eliza Jane Howell
- Real lace gowns add a pretty vintage feel. Opting for a lace, geometric patterns and intricate buttons will keep your bridal wear looking timeless.
Laurel Lime Mantilla Lace Veil, £140
- Rather than top hat and tails opt for tweeds and bow ties.
- Forget your chintzy china and that collection of jam jars with tea lights. If you want vintage go for trestle tables, tweeds and Kilner cups with pink rose lemonade.
- Stay away from round tables with table cloths, chivari chairs and chair covers. Keep it simple with wood. Old trestles are a much prettier alternative.
- When choosing flowers, think about what your Grandma grew in her garden. Scented stock, roses, peonies and carnations are some old-fashioned standbys. Think about adding wheat for a truly vintage look.
- Large metal milk churns are perfect to house all those flowers and foliage.
photography by Photograph34
- Add candlelight wherever possible and keep to simple whites and ivories.
- Reflect your vintage theme in your entertainment with a show-stopping flapper dance, or perhaps play your music through an old record player. If you want to go with a modern twist you could hire a photo booth full of classic vintage props!
Thanks for these excellent top tips Jennifer! Certainly some food for thought!
If you’re planning a vintage theme and still looking for a venue to match, Mapperton has been voted the nation’s finest manor house by Country Life magazine, has been hosting marquee weddings in its Italianate terraced valley gardens for many years. Plus, from Spring 2018 plans are afoot to convert a seventeenth-century coach house into a purpose-built wedding venue! Check it out at mappertonweddings.com
