Are you dreaming of a wedding that’s bursting with personality, colour, and a touch of nostalgic whimsy? If you’re drawn to the playful charm of yesteryear, a retro kitsch wedding might be your perfect match!
This retro wedding theme includes everything from bold décor and vintage fashion to unforgettable photos. So, throwing a kitsch-inspired celebration means that you’ve decided to embrace the fun side of love for your big day.
If you need help making it happen, we can help. Here’s your ultimate guide to planning a kitsch wedding that will have guests reminiscing and Instagramming, long after the big day.
Why Go Kitsch for Your Wedding?
Kitsch is about celebrating love in a way that’s unique, memorable, and unapologetically YOU.
Think bright pops of colour, quirky motifs, and vintage vibes that transport your guests to another era. Whether you’re obsessed with 1950s diner style, 70s disco fever, or 80s neon nostalgia, there’s a retro inspiration for every couple.
Step 1: Set the Scene with Retro Décor
The beginning is the most important part, so you need to choose your start carefully. We often recommend starting by picking your favourite era or mixing and matching for a truly eclectic look. Key kitsch elements include:
- Bold, patterned tablecloths and napkins
- Neon signs and fairy lights
- Vintage glassware, teacups, and mismatched china
- Photo walls with old-school props – think rotary phones, vinyl records, or Polaroid frames
- Fun centrepieces, like candy jars, lava lamps, or toy figurines
Let your creativity run wild, and don’t be afraid to raid charity shops, flea markets, and family attics for authentic finds.
Step 2: Dress the Part
Retro kitsch weddings are the perfect excuse to have fun with fashion. Brides can opt for tea-length dresses, short 90s-inspired dresses, polka dots, coloured petticoats, or even a jumpsuit.
On the other hand, grooms and wedding parties can sport pastel suits, bow ties, and statement accessories.
You should also encourage guests to dress up, too – think themed invitations or even a dress code for extra flair.
Step 3: Serve Up the Nostalgia
From cocktails to cake, food is a fabulous way to amp up the retro wedding theme vibes. Some ideas:
- Serve classic cocktails like martinis, Tom Collins, or colourful punch bowls
- Offer comfort foods, such as sliders, devilled eggs, mini quiches, or retro canapés
- Go big with a doughnut wall, ice cream bar, or a classic tiered wedding cake with kitschy toppers
Step 4: Soundtrack Your Day
Music makes the mood! This means that you should curate a playlist with hits from your chosen era, or hire a band that specialises in vintage tunes.
However, don’t forget to include those guilty pleasure tracks that get everyone on the dance floor. Some songs may be considered “cheesy”, but they are good for lifting up the atmosphere and great for dancing.
Step 5: Capture the Magic (With Help from Big Day Productions!)
A funky wedding deserves to be captured perfectly. That’s where Big Day Productions comes in!
Our photography and videography team is passionate about documenting every colourful, candid moment – no matter where you’re tying the knot in the UK. We work with a curated network of talented professionals who share our ethos and style, so you can browse our portfolio knowing you’ll get consistent, high-quality results.
So, whether your retro wedding is in London, the Cotswolds, or Edinburgh, our rates are consistent nationwide, and our packages are designed to be accessible without compromising on quality.
Moreover, we’ve shot thousands of weddings across grand country manors and quirky city venues alike, blending the reliability of a national brand with the personal touch of a local expert.
Plus, because we provide regular bookings to our photographers, we’re able to keep our prices lower than booking suppliers directly–something couples really appreciate! (Hundreds of glowing reviews can’t be wrong.)
Step 6: Add Playful Touches
You can’t throw a kitsch wedding without the special touches that complete the entire picture. Remember that the small final touches are what make everything memorable and perfect.
So count on a few playful things, such as:
- Renting a vintage photo booth or setting up a DIY prop station
- Handing out retro favours like mini Rubik’s cubes, candy bracelets, or personalised mixtapes
- Organising games like limbo, hopscotch, or even a dance-off
Step 7: Don’t Forget the Details
Finally, remember to include meaningful and fun details to create the setting of your dreams. Here are a few ideas:
- Send out themed invitations with retro graphics
- Use confetti cannons or funky streamers for that Instagram-perfect exit
- Customise your vows with inside jokes or favourite song lyrics for a personal touch
- Renting a retro car
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I have a kitsch wedding on a budget?
Absolutely! Kitsch is all about creativity, not cost. Hunt for bargains at thrift shops, get crafty with DIY décor, and prioritise details that bring you joy. Our photography packages at Big Day Productions are designed to be budget-friendly, too.
2. What era should I choose?
The beauty of kitsch is that there are no rules! Mix and match influences from different decades, or pick your favourite for a more cohesive feel.
3. Will my photos look too busy or chaotic?
Not with the right photographer! Our team at Big Day Productions has years of experience capturing vibrant, personality-packed celebrations while making sure every shot looks beautiful and balanced. Check out our portfolio and reviews to see for yourself!
Throw The Retro Wedding Everyone Will Remember
Throwing a retro kitsch wedding is all about celebrating your unique love story and letting your personalities shine. Plus, it is quite fun pulling everything together to recreate a blast from the past!
As you can see, with a little creativity and the right team behind the lens, your big day will be as fun, fabulous, and unforgettable as you are. So, don’t be afraid to be authentic and have a wedding that no one will forget!
Ready to make some kitschy memories? Big Day Productions is here to help you capture everyone! Contact us!