May 24, 2025

7 Vintage Inspired Ideas for a Timeless Wedding

Vintage-inspired weddings are experiencing a renaissance in 2025, with couples embracing the charm of bygone eras. From Art Deco to Disco, the standout styles of past decades are back and ready to shape your wedding day aesthetic. Whether you’re drawn to the glamour of the 20s or the nostalgia of the 90s, vintage details are a wonderful way to add warmth and character to your special day while offering your guests a fun and memorable experience.

 

1. Choose a Historic Venue

This might go without saying, but opting for a historic venue is key for capturing a vintage feel. Look for venues rich in history, and allow the character of the space to inspire your wedding day aesthetic. Consider the furnishings, colors, and textures, and familiarize yourself with the history to find a setting that speaks to your heart.

Once a 19th-century railway junction, The Station House Hotel in Kilmessan, County Meath, offers an intimate historic wedding venue less than 40 minutes from Dublin. Operated by the Slattery family for over 40 years, the Station House is perfect for couples seeking a venue that blends vintage charm with modern luxury. Some stand-out features include The Turntable, an original locomotive platform reimagined as an outdoor ceremony space nestled in the woods, and the Signal Suite (pictured above), a former railway signal box transformed into a two-story bridal retreat—complete with a king-size bed, Victoria & Albert stone bath, and private sitting room.

Download our wedding brochure and explore dates for our upcoming wedding showcase events!

2. Dress the Part

Vintage fashion is exploding in 2025. Brides are gravitating toward gowns with corset bodices, intricate embroidery, and Victorian-inspired necklines, while grooms are trading standard tuxedos for tweed three-piece suits and velvet jackets. Accessories complete the look—think white gloves, pocket watches, antique pearls, and heirloom pieces. The goal is to nod to the past without losing your style in the process. Want to take it further? Invite your guests to lean into the era as well!

P.S. We’re still obsessed with Rhiannon and Andrew’s look—Rhiannon in a long-sleeve satin gown with structured shoulders and a deep neckline, and Andrew in a double-breasted checkered suit that perfectly channeled 1940s style.

 Read more about Rhiannon and Andrew’s stunning autumn wedding

3. Arrive in Style

Nothing sets the tone like arriving in a classic car. Whether it’s a vintage Rolls-Royce, a 1960s VW Beetle, or a Model T, a period vehicle adds instant atmosphere and will have your guests buzzing. Capture the moment with a styled shoot around the car, and for an extra nod to the era, shoot a few frames on black and white film.

4. Set the Scene with Vintage Decor

Any stylist will tell you- details make all the difference. At The Station House Hotel, vintage character is already part of the setting. Build on that by adding standout pieces like gramophones, typewriters, or old film cameras. Flowers and candles are beautiful, but don’t stop there. Stack antique books, display vinyl records, or use classic board games as centrepieces to reinforce the theme and spark conversation. Let the venue set the tone, then layer in elements that reflect your style and story.

5. Speakeasy Cocktail hour

If your style leans Art Deco, why not host a speakeasy-themed cocktail hour? Create a menu of signature drinks that capture the spirit of the 1920s—think French 75s, Sidecars, Manhattans, and Old Fashioneds served in antique glassware and displayed on vintage bar carts. Bonus points for hiring a mixologist who dresses the part!

6. Embrace an Old World Palette

When planning a vintage-inspired wedding, your color palette is crucial in setting the mood. Popular combinations that evoke a timeless feel include:

  • Cream, Dusty Rose, and Sage Green: This trio offers a romantic and soft ambiance

  • Rust, Burgundy, and Olive: These earthy tones create a rich and sophisticated atmosphere, ideal for autumn weddings.

  • Navy, Blush, and Sage: Combining deep navy with soft blush and sage provides a balanced and regal look.

  • Grey, Champagne, and Brown: This palette exudes a classic and timeless feel, suitable for various vintage styles.

Use fabrics with rich textures like velvet, lace, and linen to bring your colours to life, and don’t shy away from patterns. Florals, damask, and subtle stripes can all add depth without overwhelming the look

7. Have fun with your playlist

Whether you go with a live band or a DJ, the dancefloor is the perfect space to celebrate tunes from the past. Mix in hits from different decades to create a nostalgic and inclusive atmosphere—everyone from grandparents to kids will recognize a song they know and love to dance to. If you’ve booked a band, consider adding a few classic jazz or swing numbers for extra charm and fun memories!

 



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