40 Old Money Inspired Wedding Ideas for a Romantic Affair

This post is all about the best old money inspired wedding ideas

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Ever wondered what makes an “old money” wedding so timeless? It’s all about elegance, class, and that effortlessly refined look of generational wealth.

Think Grace Kelly, Audrey Hepburn, or Princess Diana—icons who made sophistication look easy. The old money aesthetic pulls inspiration from families like the Vanderbilts and the Rothschilds, with lush estates and an understated yet super luxurious vibe. Even pop culture nods to it in shows like Gossip Girl! So if you want your wedding to capture this classic style you’re in the right place. I’ve got 40 old-money inspired wedding ideas to bring that extra touch of romance to your big day.

If you’re in a rush, skip to:

1. Invitations and Stationery
2. Wedding Decor
3. Floral Arrangements
4. Bride & Groom  Attire
5. Reception Entertainment
6. Dining Experience
7. Transportation
8. Guest Experience
9. Favors & Keepsakes 

But first… What does ‘Old Money’ Mean? 

An old money aesthetic reflects the lifestyle of the ultra-wealthy, including their fashion, behaviors, and interests.

For fashion, think timeless pieces—cashmere sweaters, pearls, tailored blazers, and colors that are muted but rich. The look says “I’ve had this forever,” even if it’s new.

When it comes to behaviors, it’s all about grace and subtlety: no need for showiness; elegance does the talking.

And as for interests, you’ll find old-money types enjoying the arts, horse riding, charity events, and family gatherings at gorgeous estates. It’s like luxury, but on silent mode.

Think of it as those families who have inherited their wealth over generations and are often seen as aspirational. It’s understated luxury, class with a sprinkle of sophistication.

What’s the best venue for an old money wedding?

For a wedding with an old money charm, you want to choose the perfect venue that reflects this vibe.

Opt for venues like grand estates, historic mansions, or stately country clubs that ooze sophistication. Imagine exchanging vows in a lush, manicured garden, or inside a beautifully decorated ballroom with crystal chandeliers.

A traditional vineyard, a luxurious private club, or even a charming library with antique books can set the perfect backdrop. These settings will help you create a wedding that feels effortlessly refined and steeped in tradition.

What are the colors for an old money wedding?

For an Old Money themed wedding, you’ll want a color palette that exudes timeless elegance and sophistication. Here are some classic and refined color combinations that perfectly capture the essence of old-world charm:

1. Navy Blue and Gold: Deep navy blue paired with luxurious gold accents creates a classic, regal look that exudes refinement and grandeur.
2. Emerald Green and Ivory: The rich, opulent tone of emerald green combined with the understated elegance of ivory offers a sophisticated and timeless combination.
3. Burgundy and Champagne: The deep, rich hue of burgundy alongside the soft shimmer of champagne provides a classic, elegant palette perfect for a refined affair.
4. Taupe and Brass: Taupe offers a neutral, sophisticated base, and brass accents introduce a warm, classic feel.

Now we know the venue and colour palettes for an old money themed wedding, lets delve into 40 wedding ideas that will elevate your old money look… 

40 Old Money Inspired Wedding Ideas for a Romantic Affair

Invitations and Stationery:

1.Calligraphy

Opt for elegant calligraphy with flowing script that conveys timeless sophistication. Choose a high-quality paper like cotton or vellum for added luxury.

For an extra special touch, have your invitations engraved with gold or silver foil for a truly opulent effect.
Tip: Hire a professional calligrapher who specializes in traditional styles to ensure your invites are flawless.

My go to provider for any kind of wedding stationery is Minted. There are so many gorgeous designs available from a range of independent artists. From save to dates to on-the-day wedding stationery, Minted has it all!

2. Liquid Stamps

Enhance your invitations with liquid wax stamps. Choose a rich, classic color like deep burgundy or gold. Use a custom seal with your monogram or crest to add a personal touch.
Tip: Practice the stamping technique on a sample envelope to avoid any smudges or mistakes.

This is the Custom Liquid Stamp I used for my own wedding and I LOVED it.

Wedding Decor:

3. Chandeliers

Select grand crystal chandeliers to hang in your venue. Their sparkling light creates a stunning focal point and adds an air of luxury. Or  if your venue already has chandeliers this is an added bonus.
Tip: Ensure the chandeliers are appropriately sized for your venue’s ceiling to avoid overwhelming the space.

4. Champagne Tower

Construct a multi-tiered champagne tower for a dramatic and celebratory touch. Also, use vintage-style coupe glasses for an elegant effect.
Tip: Have a dedicated team ready to carefully pour the champagne to avoid spills and ensure a flawless presentation.

5. Chiavari Chairs

Choose Chiavari chairs with gold or silver finishes for a classic, refined look. These chairs are not only elegant but also comfortable for your guests.
Tip: Add chair cushions with luxurious fabrics like velvet for extra comfort and style.

6. Black and White Checked Dancefloor

Set up a classic black and white checked dancefloor to evoke a sense of sophistication and timeless glamour.

Tip: Coordinate the checked pattern with your overall décor theme to create a cohesive look. This would look fabulous with a black tie attire. 

7. White Taper Candles

Use tall white taper candles in elegant candelabras or holders. Because, their soft glow creates a romantic atmosphere.
Tip: Use clear hurricane candle holders to prevent your candles from blowing out, particularly if you’re having an outdoor wedding. I really recommend these candle holders from Amazon

8. Gold Rimmed Crockery

Serve your meal on fine china with gold rims, and opt for gold knives and forks.  This adds a touch of traditional luxury to your dining experience.
Tip: Rent from a high-quality provider to ensure the crockery is in pristine condition.

9. Candelabras

Incorporate ornate candelabras to add a dramatic lighting element. Moreover, choose styles with intricate details and multiple arms for a grand look.
Tip: Place candelabras in key areas like the head table or around the dancefloor for maximum impact. My favourites at the moment are these gorgeous gold candelabras on Amazon. (I mean they also have over 600 5 star reviews, so I can’t be the only one that thinks so).

10. Gilded Mirrors

Use gilded mirrors as decor accents to reflect light and add a touch of opulence. Consider placing them on tables or as wall decor. You could also use these as DIY welcome signs or seating charts for a modern twist.

Tip: Arrange mirrors at different heights to create visual interest and enhance the room’s ambiance.

11. Antique Furniture

Incorporate vintage or heirloom pieces such as ornate chairs, grand pianos, or antique writing desks. These add a sense of history and elegance to your venue.

12. Coupe Glasses

Serve cocktails in elegant coupe glasses, which add a touch of vintage glamour. So, opt for crystal or etched designs for extra sophistication.
Tip: Tie velvet ribbon around the base of your glasses for an extra boujee touch. 

You can shop stunning art deco coupe glasses from amazon here

Floral Arrangements:

13. Classic Blooms

Choose luxurious flowers like roses, peonies, and orchids arranged in grand, lush displays. These blooms offer timeless elegance and sophistication.
Tip: Work with a florist who specializes in high-end floral design to achieve a cohesive and refined look.

14. Monochrome Bouquets

Opt for monochrome floral arrangements, such as all-white or all-pink bouquets, for a sophisticated and polished appearance.
Tip: Use varying shades of the same color to add depth and dimension to the arrangements.

15. Seasonal Florals

Incorporate seasonal flowers to add a natural and elegant touch. For example, peonies in spring or dahlias in fall can enhance your theme while reflecting the season.
Tip: Plan your floral arrangements in advance to ensure availability of the seasonal blooms you desire. If the flowers you desire are not in season you could always opt for silk artificial alternatives. 

Bride & Groom Attire:

16. Tailored Suits

For the groom, choose a classic, well-tailored suit, such as a three-piece or morning coat, in a timeless color like navy or charcoal.
Tip: Have fittings well in advance to ensure a perfect fit and avoid last-minute alterations.

17. Elegant Gown

The bride’s gown should feature luxurious fabrics like silk or satin with classic details such as lace, beading, or embroidery. For more old money wedding style inspo visit
Tip: Choose a gown that complements the venue’s style and ensures you feel comfortable and confident.

18. Vintage Accessories

Enhance the bride’s look with vintage-inspired accessories like a pearl necklace or a brocade veil. These pieces add a touch of timeless glamour.
Tip: Also, for extra glamour, get your wedding date, love phrase or names embroidered onto your veil. 

Reception Entertainment:

19. String Quartet

Hire a string quartet to provide sophisticated, classical music for your ceremony and reception.For a modern twist, seek a string quartet who do covers of modern songs.
Tip: Choose a quartet with experience in wedding performances for a seamless experience.

20. Jazz Band

Set the mood with a live jazz band during your cocktail hour or dinner. Their smooth, classic tunes will add an air of sophistication.
Tip: Select a band with a repertoire that matches the style and ambiance of your wedding. Also make sure the Jazz bands attire matches the old money wedding theme. 

21. Grand Piano

Include a grand piano for live music or a dramatic solo performance. This adds a touch of elegance and grandeur to your reception. Also, opt for a classic white or black piano.
Tip: Coordinate with a skilled pianist who can perform a selection of classical or contemporary pieces.

22. Opera Singers

Surprise your guests with a performance by opera singers. Their powerful and dramatic vocals will make a memorable impression.
Tip: Also schedule the performance at a key moment to maximize impact, such as during dinner or after speeches.

23. Magicians

Hire a magician to perform sophisticated tricks and illusions that entertain and intrigue guests without being overly flashy.
Tip: Choose a magician with experience in performing at high-end events to ensure a polished performance.

Dining Experience:

24. Formal Multi-Course Dinner

Serve a luxurious multi-course dinner with elegantly presented dishes and fine wines. This classic dining experience adds sophistication to your event.
Tip: Work with a top-notch caterer to ensure high-quality food and service.

25. High Tea Service

Offer a refined high tea service with elegant finger sandwiches, pastries, and scones. This provides a touch of British charm and sophistication. Moreover, this could be perfect for long cocktail hours or after dinner breaks.
Tip: Include a selection of premium teas to complement the high tea experience.

26. Vintage Cocktail Reception

Create a vintage cocktail reception with classic cocktails like martinis and old fashioneds, served with a touch of elegance.
Tip: Hire a skilled bartender who specializes in vintage cocktails to ensure high-quality drinks.

27. Elegant Dessert Table

Set up a beautifully arranged dessert table with sophisticated treats such as macarons, petit fours, and chocolate truffles.
Tip: Coordinate the dessert table’s design with your overall wedding theme for a cohesive look.

28. Luxury Wine Pairing Dinner

Host a luxury wine pairing dinner, pairing each course with a carefully selected fine wine. This adds a touch of refinement and culinary delight.
Tip: Consult with a sommelier to select wines that complement each course perfectly.

Transportation:

29. Classic Car

Arrive in style with a vintage car like a Rolls-Royce or Bentley. These classic vehicles add an air of sophistication to your grand entrance.
Tip: Book your classic car well in advance to ensure availability and condition.

30. Horse and Carriage

Add a fairy-tale touch with a horse-drawn carriage for your arrival or departure. This romantic mode of transportation enhances the old-world charm.
Tip: Check weather conditions and have a backup plan to ensure a smooth experience.

Guest Experience:

31. Luxury Casino Table

Set up a luxury casino table for a touch of high-stakes excitement. Provide guests with custom poker chips and professional-grade equipment.
Tip: Hire a professional dealer to manage the table and ensure an authentic casino experience.

32. Cocktail Tasting Experience

Offer a sophisticated cocktail tasting experience with a selection of premium spirits and expert mixologists.
Tip: Include tasting notes or mini-guides to educate guests about the different cocktails.

33. High Tea

Provide an elegant high tea experience with fine teas and delicacies. Set up a stylish tea station for guests to enjoy during the event.
Tip: Choose a variety of teas and include options for different dietary preferences.

34. Vintage Photobooth

Set up a vintage-style photobooth with classic props and backdrops. This provides a fun and memorable activity for guests.
Tip: Include a custom backdrop and props that match your wedding theme for a cohesive look.

35. Vintage Audio Guest Book

Say goodbye to traditional guestbooks. A vintage audio guest book is such a fun, unique twist for an old-money wedding vibe! Instead of written notes, you’ll have guests leaving voice messages, adding a personal touch that feels totally timeless.

You’ll get to hear laughter, inside jokes, and sweet words every time you play it back—capturing the emotions of the day in a way that feels like an heirloom you can revisit again and again.

I loved this idea so much that I actually used it at my own wedding!

Click here for my in-depth review of the Temu Vintage Audio Guestbook

Favors & Keepsakes:

35. Personalized Gifts

Give guests personalized keepsakes such as embroidered handkerchiefs or engraved glassware. These thoughtful gifts add a touch of luxury and glamour.
Tip: Ensure personalization is done in a high-quality manner to reflect the elegance of your event.

We are obsessed with these embroidered handkerchiefs by Evo Rose Embroidery on Etsy

36. Elegant Trinkets

Offer elegant trinkets like miniature perfume bottles or classic cufflinks as memorable favors.
Tip: Choose trinkets that reflect your wedding theme and add a touch of sophistication.

My personal fave are these stunning perfume bottles by Fairy Gift Favors on Etsy

37. Classic Stationery

For old-money-inspired wedding favors, think elegant and timeless. Consider custom stationery sets or small leather-bound notebooks embossed with guests’ initials or high-quality pens with your couple monogram.

I mean how gorgeous are these custom ball point pens from Amazon

38. Custom Candles

Provide guests with elegantly packaged candles in classic scents. Also choose high-quality wax and packaging that reflects the sophistication of your wedding theme. Tip: Select scents like lavender, vanilla, or sandalwood for a timeless and refined aroma.

40. Custom Tea Blends

Provide guests with custom tea blends in elegantly designed tins. Choose high-quality teas and include a personal note or label to enhance the favor. Tip: Offer a variety of blends to suit different tastes, and ensure the packaging reflects your wedding theme.

Finally

I hope you enjoyed my article on the best old money inspired wedding ideas.

Going with an old-money theme is such a unique way to add timeless elegance and understated charm to your day.

By combining details like rich fabrics, refined settings, and a few vintage touches, you’ll create a beautiful atmosphere with true class. From iconic historical styles to cozy, grand decor, these 40 ideas offer everything you need for a memorable, effortlessly stylish celebration—whether you’re aiming for subtle grace or a touch of aristocratic flair.

Happy planning!

What is your favourite idea from this list?

This post was all about the best old-money inspired wedding ideas

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