A period wedding theme can make for a fun and memorable event.
For brides and grooms looking to have an unconventional and creative wedding, a period theme may be worth their effort. There are many periods to choose from, ranging from Ancient Egypt through the 1980s, each one having its own unique d cor, attire, music and food. With some research and imagination, the bride and groom can create a memorable and unique ceremony and wedding evocative of whatever period they choose for their theme.
Ancient Roman Theme
In an ancient Roman wedding theme, the bridal gown should be toga-style and worn with gold-strapped sandals and a laurel wreath on her head. WedThemes.com recommends lilies, orchids, an Italian crocus or herbs for the bridal bouquet. The groom and his groomsmen should wear togas with accessories such as Roman-style helmets and leather sandals, and the bridesmaids can wear togas which are less ornate than the bride's. The color theme should include colors of purple, gold and red, which were prized by the Romans. Decorations should incorporate traditional Roman plants such as ivy, myrtle and grape leaves, for example, and items such as columns, urns and sundials. Pass out miniature bottles of fine Italian olive oil, Caesar salad dressing or Italian wine as wedding favors. Entertainment can include minstrels or a lyre player.
1940s Theme
A 1940s wedding theme can make for an elegant and entertaining event. The bride can choose a vintage 1940s dress with classic accessories such as full-length gloves and a hat with a netted veil. The groom can choose between a pin-striped suit or Army uniform, both of which were popular in the era. A 1940s big band can perform swing and ballroom dance songs, or a DJ can play music from period artists such as Louis Armstrong, Nat King Cole, Bing Cosby, and Benny Goodman. The website WedThemes recommends a big band-themed wedding cake in the shape of a music instrument such as a tuba or saxophone, and a topper comprising a bride and groom in front of a music stand.
Victorian Theme
A Victorian theme makes for an elegant, romantic wedding. An English garden or Victorian manor is an ideal setting for the occasion. A Victorian-style dress, characterized by lace and long sleeves, forms the centerpiece of this wedding. The bride can acquire a genuine gown from the era or purchase a new dress in the style. Bridal accessories could include a large white hat with a veil, white gloves and white lace-up boots. The bride or her bridesmaids can carry parasols or lace fans. According to Westchester Weddings, the groom should wear a cutaway tuxedo, ruffled shirt, ascot and top hat, and the groomsmen can wear ascots as well as vests and top hats. D cor should have a color scheme with ivory, white, pale pink or pale blue with lace, flowers and doilies. The reception menu should include Victorian fare such as tea, scones and finger sandwiches. Classical music played by a live band would be most appropriate for the entertainment. Some ideas for wedding favors include teacups, cameo-shaped chocolates and ornate photo frames.
Medieval Theme
For a Medieval-themed wedding, the bride and groom can purchase a medieval-style dress and suit from a specialty designer. A Medieval reception is best done in the style of a feast, with several large courses including foods such as chicken, quail, veal or mutton in beer. You can even serve food on traditional Medieval bread trenches instead of plates and have guests eat with their fingers. Decorations should include characteristic Medieval items such as trumpet banners, a coat of arms and flowers like peonies, marigolds and lilies.
