So many people covet a Great Gatsby inspired wedding – of course, we definitely don’t want the tragic ending that happens in the book, but we do like the idea of all that glitz, glamour and partying. The Great Gatsby was set in the 20s, when people were experimenting with pushing boundaries and breaking rules and conventions – perhaps that is what you’re willing to do with your wedding!
A monumentous party is always what a good wedding should be, with plenty of delicious drinks, decadent food, and people dressed up to the nines; just like one of Gatsby’s infamous parties. So here’s a quick guide on how to throw the perfect Great Gatsby inspired wedding!
The Dress Code
The traditional 20s wedding dress was about ankle length, with a drop waist and lots of beautiful flowing fabric. Often is was decorated with beads, and the bride had the choice of a veil (which was often embellished with sparkling beads and delicate lace), or a headband which rested on the forehead and often featured dazzling gemstone detail. Just keep in mind that many 20s styles were inspired by travels to the Far East, so you might even want to add a sheer embroidered kimono to your bridal look – make sure there’s plenty of fringing also!
Men’s suits in the 20s were exquisitely tailored and often worn with all the trimmings; jacket, waistcoat, tie, trousers and pocket square. The groom might like to opt for a jacket in a printed dark silk, with velvet details, or a tweed suit with details picked out in a contrasting colour. Add interest to the look with patterned vintage pocket squares and unique buttons on the waistcoat.
The Décor
The 20s were all about displaying your wealth and influence using the intriguing items you had collected from your travels – we’re sure you don’t really want to show off to your guests or engage in a bit of game hunting for your wedding, so instead try decorating tables with faux ostritch feathers, glittering acrylic gems, origami, and little safari-inspired animals. Print name places with an art deco font, and give favours of exotic sweets.
The Drink
Do some research and see if there are any companies near you that hire out vintage glassware, because it’s a great idea to serve champagne at your Gatsby wedding out of vintage glasses instead of flutes. Try embellishing the cocktails and drinks with a small dash of edible golden glitter or delicious berries to make things extra decadent. Gin cocktails are an authentic 1920s drink if you want to be exact as possible!
The Little Details
Consider hiring a 1920s Rolls Royce as your wedding car, it’s a bit pricey, but Gatsby knew it was the best way to travel. You might also want to complete the night for your guests by hiring a live jazz band to deal with the music. Your guests might initially be a bit put off by the idea of dancing to songs they’re not used to, but jazz is made to make people dance, and a good band can perform some great jazz covers of modern popular songs; just take the jazz version of Beyonce’s Crazy in Love that they made for the Gatsby film for example!
This guest post was contributed by Holly Powell on behalf of Thornton Hall, the ideal wedding venue for a classic vintage inspired theme.
