This post is all about the best ideas for a 50s vintage wedding aesthetic.

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Dreaming of a timeless vintage wedding aesthetic? Let’s throw it back to the fabulous 50s! 

So picture this : a classic convertible cars, a retro jukebox, roller-skate waiters and peals everywhere. I’m here to help you plan the ultimate 50s themed wedding that’s classy, fun and totally unique. 

Whether you’re drawn to the elegance of mid-century style or just love the rock ‘n’ roll charm of the era, this article is packed with 20 of the best ideas to help you curate a stunning 50s-inspired day.

Plus I’ll also be answering some of your most frequently asked questions, to make sure your wedding is everything you’ve ever dreamed of! 

Okay let’s delve in to create the ultimate vintage-inspired wedding!

But first… what is a 50s vintage wedding aesthetic?

To really understand how to create the ultimate 50s vintage wedding aesthetic, we need to take it back to that time period. So let’s rewind!

Life in the 1950s was a mix of post-war optimism, upbeat vibes, family time, and all things classic Americana. Picture diners, drive-ins, sock hops, and rock ‘n’ roll blaring from jukeboxes! 

Families were cozy in their new suburban homes, showing off shiny gadgets like TVs and record players. Fashion was elegant but playful—think full skirts, pearls, and sharp suits.

Icon’s like Marilyn Monroe were setting fashion trends, Elvis Presely was topping the charts and our screens were going crazy for James Dean. 

And teens? They finally had their own scene! They were cruising to drive-in movies, dancing to Elvis, and loving every second of their newfound freedom and pop culture.

So now we know what the 50s was like, let’s see how we can bring it to your big day!

20 Charming Ideas for the Perfect 50s Vintage Wedding Aesthetic

Below is a list of the best ideas for a 50s wedding theme

1. Classic Cars Entrance

Picture this: You and your love arriving to your wedding venue (or making your stylish exit) in a vintage car or convertible. It’s the ultimate retro entrance to your wedding ceremony, with you waving like movie stars while everyone’s snapping photos.

A dream start to your 50s day!

2. Café-Style Reception Seating

For the ultimate vintage vibe, why not set up cozy, café-style tables instead of a traditional reception layout? Toss in a few retro booths for fun, diner vibes.

This setup is super social and keeps everyone mingling, just like the old diners!

3. Record Player DJ Station

Nothing says vintage wedding like a record player spinning old-school vinyl. For your wedding reception, mix some classic 50s tunes with a few personal favorites, and you’ve got the perfect, nostalgic vibe.

Plus, the setup itself looks gorgeous as decor.

4. Retro Cocktail Menu

Bring on the cocktails! Serve up retro drinks like Old Fashioneds and Manhattans to give everyone a taste of mid-century sophistication.

The mixologists can even dress up in vintage-inspired attire for an extra flair.

5. Pearl Jewelry Accents

There’s something so timeless about pearls! For that old-world charm, add a touch of elegance with classic strands of pearls or dainty earrings.

Pearls bring that 50s Hollywood glamour to your look and complement a vintage gown beautifully.

6. Retro Candy Station

A candy station stacked with 50s classics like rock candy, peppermint sticks, and licorice will be a huge hit with guests. It’s not just sweet, but it also serves as an adorable decor piece that captures the era’s charm.

7. Black-and-White Checkered Dance Floor

Want that diner feel on the dance floor? Go with a black-and-white checkered floor that makes every step feel like you’re in a 50s movie.

It’s also the perfect choice for a photo-op backdrop that adds a serious vintage touch.

8. Pillar Candles

For a classy vintage look, create that soft, romantic glow with pillar candles. Place them all around the venue to create a dreamy, intimate ambiance that blends the vintage charm of the 50s with timeless elegance.

9. Audio Guest book

Forget the traditional guestbook! For a modern twist set up an audio guest book booth where guests can record fun, heartfelt messages on a vintage style audio phone.

You’ll get to hear everyone’s voices long after the big day, making it a super sweet keepsake for years to come.

You can learn more about this on my latest post – Is the Temu Audio Guest book worth it? My Honest Review

10. Vinyl Record Place Cards

Use mini vinyl records as place cards! They’re cute, personal, and add a fun pop of retro to each table.

Plus, your guests can take them home as a memento from your big day.

11. Retro Soda Bottle Favors

Gift guests a fun, retro soda bottle with custom labels for that personal touch. Choose glass bottles with classic flavors like root beer or cola—it’s a nostalgic favor that everyone will love!

12. Custom Neon Signs

Add some serious wow-factor with custom neon signs. Use one with your names or a fun phrase, and it’ll light up the venue with colorful retro vibes. Plus, it doubles as a great photo backdrop.

My go to for all neon signs is always Olala Neon on Etsy. They have so many custom signs available, it would be impossible to not find something you like. 

13. Jukebox as a Music Station

Want to go all-out retro? Rent a jukebox for your wedding! Even if it’s just for decoration, it adds such a cool, vintage feel to the venue, and your wedding guests will love snapping selfies with it.

14. Cigar Station

For that old-school lounge feel, a cigar station can be a great addition. It’s perfect for any cigar lovers and adds a sophisticated 50s vibe to your wedding. Just picture guests enjoying a fine cigar under the stars!

If you’re looking for an antique bar cart like the one above, TEMU have a great gold bar cart on offer for £31.99.

Plus you can actually get 30% off this purchase with my discount code: acr520922

15. Retro Stationery 

Don’t underestimate how important retro stationery is to capture that vintage wedding style! I’m thinking bold patterns—hello, polka dots, stripes and squiggles! Plus, using old-school typography that reminds me of classic diner signs will add a fun touch.

Bright colors like pinks, blues, red, and yellow are perfect for a playful vibe. 

I’m obsessed with this retro wedding stationery design bundle by Sweet Rain Design on Etsy. It’s fun, yet classy and cohesive and literally has all the stationery you need in one purchase. 

16. Roller Skate Waitstaff

For a fun twist, have waitstaff serve drinks on roller skates! It brings that nostalgic diner feel to life, and everyone will love the playful touch.

It’s also amazing for creating an unforgettable experience!

17. Diner-Style Wedding Cake

Go bold with 50s-inspired vintage wedding cakes featuring vibrant stripes, heart shapes or geometric patterns. Top it with a mini jukebox or retro car, and you’ve got yourself a cake that’s as unique as it is delicious.

18. Vintage Camcorders

Capture the day with a vintage camcorder for that authentic, old-school film look. Put your wedding party in charge of recording and boom! You’ll get a wedding video with a beautiful nostalgic feel, almost like it’s straight out of a classic 50s home movie!

19. Typewriter Guest Book

Swap the traditional guestbook for a vintage typewriter! Guests can type out their well-wishes, creating little notes that feel charming and old-fashioned. It’s a unique way to preserve their messages.

You can shop vintage style typewriters on Amazon. 

20. Cinema Welcome Sign

Welcome everyone with a marquee-style cinema sign. It’s a playful touch that sets the scene for a glamorous night, bringing a little piece of 50s Hollywood right to your wedding.

I love this custom wedding sign by Designed by Joe on Etsy.

These ideas will make your 50s-inspired wedding both elegant and packed with fun details that everyone will love!

Frequently Asked Questions 

Below are the most common questions about planning a vintage style wedding 

What defines a vintage-themed wedding?

A vintage wedding often draws inspiration from past decades, like the 1920s, 50s, or 70s, focusing on timeless elegance and iconic details of that era, like attire, decor, and music.

How can I incorporate vintage elements without it looking old-fashioned?

If you’re looking to move away from traditional weddings, mix modern touches with vintage design elements. Use elegant vintage décor, like chandeliers and lace, combined with modern table settings or florals for a balanced look.

What color scheme should I use for my vintage wedding?

Soft pastels, neutrals, and metallics (like gold or silver) are popular. For a 50s theme, a bold color palette like red or teal with polka dots are fun too!

Where can I find vintage wedding theme décor and attire?

Thrift shops, antique stores, or specialty vintage rental companies often carry vintage furniture, décor, and accessories. Online marketplaces can also have unique finds.

How can I personalize a vintage wedding?

Add personal touches like a family heirloom (jewellery or vintage lace) or curate a unique guest book option, like a vintage typewriter or record.

What are vintage-inspired entertainment options?

Consider hiring a live jazz band, setting up a record player station, or using a jukebox. Even a classic photo booth with vintage props adds charm.

​Summary 

I hope you enjoyed my article on 50s vintage wedding aesthetic ideas. 

Planning a beautiful vintage wedding is all about infusing your special day with nostalgic charm and playful elegance.

By incorporating unique elements like classic cocktails, retro decor, and fun entertainment, you can create a memorable atmosphere that reflects your personality and the spirit of the era. 

Whether it’s through bold colors, vintage attire, or personalized touches, embracing the 50s aesthetic will ensure your dream wedding is not just stunning but also a delightful experience for you and your guests. Let the celebration begin!

Do you have any other fun 50s themed wedding ideas? Please share in the comments below and tell us all about it 

If you’re looking for help planning and organising your wedding décor I’ve actually created an Editable Wedding Decor Checklist Template! 

This comprehensive, easy-to-use checklist is designed to help brides organize every aspect of their wedding décor and ensure nothing gets forgotten. From ceremony essentials to reception details, this customizable template will guide you through the entire planning process with ease. I use it for all the weddings I plan, it’s a life saver!

Shop my Editable Wedding Decor Checklist Template Here. 

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This post was all about the best ideas for a 50s vintage wedding aesthetic.

Recommended Reading: 

• 40 Old Money Inspired Wedding Ideas for a Romantic Affair
• Is the Temu Audio Guest book worth it? My Honest Review
• 20 Fun Wedding Dance Floor Props for an Unforgettable Party

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