How to Plan a Vintagecore Wedding

If there's one trend that's sweeping social media, it's Vintagecore. From grainy photography to thrifted furniture, attire, and accessories, this throwback aesthetic is popping up in every facet of our lives, and weddings are no exception. Before you start planning a Vintagecore celebration, it's important to remember that "vintage" is not the same as "antique," another popular aesthetic in the wedding space. Anything that's vintage—be it a tangible item or an overarching theme—is generally at least 20 years old; antique denotes anything that's at least a century, or 100 years, old. So, if you're thinking about planning a vintage-themed wedding, you'll want to look back on trends that were popular from the mid 1920s until 2003.

"A vintage style is a very specific trend but I think it can work for the right couple whose personal interests and style align with it," says Laura Ritchie, a professional wedding planner and founder of the luxury event planning company Grit & Grace. "As with any trend, if it doesn't suit you or reflect who you are as a couple then I believe its not a good fit." Simply put? Don't force it. A Vintagecore wedding isn't right for everyone, and if you don't love this vibe through and through, a celebration themed entirely around it will never feel authentic.

Ritchie's top tip for planning a Vintagecore wedding? Choose your time period early on—and be specific. "Choosing a specific timeframe that you are throwing back to will keep the vibe consistent and not all over the place," she explains. So, instead of telling your wedding planner the inspiration is simply "vintage," nail down a window of time—late 1920s, early 1970s, or mid 1990s, for example—that you like and start ideating around it. From there you can begin to choose details that speak to the window of time you're targeting. "Rentals and patterns are an easy way to set and tone and emote a certain vintage era," Ritchie adds. "Think a themed cocktail hour with vintage furniture or a Gatsby-like 1920s pattern as a liner of your invitation envelope!"

Another key element that can help drive your Vintagecore wedding theme home? The venue. "A historic home or outdoor garden are great places to use as a backdrop," Ritchie says. "Architecture can really lend itself well to a certain decade." Next, it's time to think about your rentals; while there are plenty of places to rent vintage items, Ritchie urges couples to ensure that their selection is in good shape. "Avoiding a dusty and musty vintage style is top priority which means renting décor, furniture, and tableware from a professional who manages their inventory well," she notes. "And don't forget about modern conveniences like comfortable chairs, proper eating and drinkware, and the right staffing for proper guest experience."

For attire, you have a lot of options. If the time period aligns, you could borrow a parent or grandparent's wedding attire—how sweet would it be to walk down the aisle in your mom's old wedding dress or your dad's tuxedo jacket? There are also plenty of online retailers that offer vintage attire for sale or rental. And if you love the vintage look but still want something new, know that there are lots of bridal designers offering Vintagecore wedding dresses right now.

Whatever you do, don't go crazy at vintage stores, flea markets, or online marketplaces. "Don't thrift yourself into a tizzy!" Ritchie urges. "There are plenty of rental companies that can help you bring this look together without $9.99 yourself into a garage full of items you thought you were saving money on but really you are just stuck with now!"