Why should you have a 1920s themed wedding reception?
Who can forget the excitement of New Year’s Eve as we moved from 2019 to 2020? Every party seemed to be themed for the Great Gatsby and we embraced it with optimism and excitement. I don’t need to tell you what happened next! But things are looking more positive, and there is a buzz around the idea that this decade will indeed be the new Roaring Twenties.
So, what better theme to embrace when planning your wedding? After all, it’s a day for celebration and joy. But there are some other good reasons why you should have a 1920s themed wedding reception.
1920s style – fonts and colours
The distinctive typefaces of the 1920s, and the embellishments that accompanied it, make for a stylish statement. You can use these not only on the invitations, but also on the ceremony cards, menu, and thank you notes.
Added to this, there are some beautiful colour choices within the 1920s palette – for example, the truly classic black and white or the softer gold. Or you might lean into the opulent colours of peacock feathers that were popular at the time.
1920s dresses
There’s so much inspiration to be found in the beautiful bride’s and bridesmaid’s dresses from the 1920s. It was a time of romance and rebellion. The classic lady and the flapper were side by side, so there are both tasselled dresses and long column dresses to choose from. There are tasteful silk creations and intricate lace, and you can even incorporate some fabulous Art Deco geometric shapes.
And of course, the men will look dapper in their morning suits whether they are part of the wedding party or not.
Dressing your wedding reception venue
There are so many sources of inspiration for dressing your venue when planning a 1920s themed wedding. Calla lilies, tulips, lavender, and wisteria were all popular flowers, and offer a wide range of colours. You can also pick up the colour themes of your invitation in the gold and silver or black and white of the Art Deco craze. Dramatic drapes and structured vases will provide the right feeling, as will black or white tablecloths. Because formal dining was still very much in vogue at the time, your formal wedding dinner will fit right into the theme.
1920s music
The music of the 20s was so much fun! Traditional jazz was very popular, dominated by the unforgettable sounds of the saxophone and trumpet. There’s simply nothing like a live jazz band if you’re looking to recreate the authentic 1920s style of those great New York parties.
Why not have a cocktail bar for your pre-dinner drinks? Classic cocktails of the era include the sidecar, the Tom Collins, and of course the gin fizz. There are so many more to choose from, while champagne was very much in vogue then too!
For finger food, you could consider Deviled eggs and Oysters Rockefeller. The classic Waldorf salad, invented at the Waldorf-Astoria hotel in New York during the period, is a charming starter, and then roast chicken with Duchess potatoes makes a tasty main. Our Executive Chef will be delighted to work with you to suggest creative 1920’s twists we can add to your bespoke menu.
With so much inspiration out there for your wedding reception, it will definitely be beautiful and distinctive. You might even say it’ll be the cat’s pyjamas!
For more information please do get in touch with us via our contact form or give us a call on 020 7390 1590 to discuss your event.