Wedding Ideas by Decade

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Why are decade weddings so popular these days? They're themed without overwhelming your guests with circus tents or costumes. Plus, they allow you to incorporate all of the traditional wedding elements while transporting your guests back in time. Add family heirlooms to the décor, drive off in a vintage car or transform your bridal look to fit the time period — the ambiance will create an unforgettable event for everyone! Check out our favorite wedding ideas inspired by the 1910s through the 1950s.

The 1910s

Mix and match fonts and bold colors to create an old-time look.

vintage wedding invitations
Photography by Krista Mason // Stationery by Cherish Paperie
 

The 1920s

Printed handkerchiefs and shawls will have all of your guests dressed to theme!

vintage handkerchiefs
Photography by Ralph Alswang // Event planning by Cape Cod Celebrations 

A vintage car makes the perfect backdrop for family photos.

vintage themed wedding
Photography by Ralph Alswang // Event planning by Cape Cod Celebrations  

Use vintage furniture pieces like this gold bar cart to fit the time. A sequined tablecloth and Art Deco detailed cake make for a 1920s-inspired dessert table.

vintage bar cart
Left: Photography by Mike Larson // Floral design by Panacea Event Floral Design
Right: Photography by U Me Us Studios // Florals and props by Passion Roots

Have your reception in a dark lounge to give it a speakeasy atmosphere.

speakeasy lounge
Photography by Aaron Shintaku

The 1930s

Wear bold jewelry, like this mixed metal necklace featuring pearls, for a 1930s-inspired bridal look.

vintage wedding necklace
Photography by Maya Myers // Wedding and event design by Stacey Lynn Design

A vintage headpiece will always take you back in time. For a sentimental touch, add some heirlooms that belonged to your grandmother (or another family member) to your bouquet.

vintage wedding headpiecevintage wedding bouquet
Photography by Maya Myers // Wedding and event design by Stacey Lynn Design

The 1940s

Add feathers to your flower arrangements for an Old-Hollywood glam feel. Black and white table settings complete the look. Check out more black and white weddings here!

feather wedding centerpiecesfeather place card
Photography by Catherine Hall Studios // Floral and event design by Nancy Liu Chin

The 1950s

Choose a tea-length dress, a vintage veil and a retro car for a 1950s-inspired theme.

vintage wedding car
1950s wedding dress1950s wedding dress
Photography by Valerie Callan // Wedding dresses by Aria

Tell us: Which time period appeals to you the most? Stay tuned for ideas inspired by the '60s through '90s in Part Two of this series! Plus, check out real wedding photos from different decades.

—Alexandra Meyers