When planning a wedding, the idea of fusing old and new resonates with almost every bride. Often times than not, the bride desires something traditional, whether it be the order of ceremony or the music. There’s also usually a need to celebrate new ideas, perhaps in decor or non-traditional vows. Bringing together the old and new is essentially the foundation of any wedding day. We’re bringing our families, young and old, together. We’re combining new and old traditions. And most of all, we’re placing faith in the forging together of all of these different sentimental and emotional elements.
With that being said, we’d like to highlight the fusing of old and new from a decor perspective. I.e. How to design a wedding that celebrates the traditional and the modern, while keeping everything in harmony– just like we aim to do with the guest list 😉
Simply put, we believe event design is much like interior design. It is important to showcase what you love most by letting the space or event represent you– yet it’s equally as important to keep things comfortable and crowd-friendly. Inspiration for combining traditional and modern can be found in common commercial locations. It’s all about perspective and letting the restaurants, hotels and boutiques we love to visit speak to us through design. We’ve gathered a few images of great modern spaces with wedding decor potential, as well as some that remain more traditional. We know that when planning a wedding, a simple dinner or trip to the antique store can result in re-thinking your entire wedding color scheme, but don’t let this discourage you from dreaming up a unique design. These images below are proof that things can be mixed and matched, but still speak to the heritage of a traditional look.
Tiffany Blue: A somewhat traditional wedding color. Now, how about adding a midcentury-modern spin? We love the neutral colors and clean lines in this room that allow Tiffany Blue to be the center of attention- and in a fresh, unexpected way. Oh, and that lighting! The possibilities with rope and simple antique bulbs are endless.
This is a new favorite (earth friendly) idea. How about creating a wall of live plants as the focal point of your ceremony or reception? Not only is it stunning, but you can take it back to your new home with your new hubby and it will continue to flourish! By the way, plants seem to compliment any wedding style.
Summer brides, this one is for you. We love the idea of bringing in a pop of color with a beautiful piece of furniture. What a great (stylish) way to serve summer cocktails? This can be a simple DIY project, and I’ll bet you’ll also love a newly finished piece of antique furniture in your home after the wedding.
The collected feel of this gorgeous boutique generates the feeling of gathering together old and new. Displaying things neatly, as centerpieces, or on shelving and ancillary tables makes it easy to bring personality to a room. Just be sure to keep things neat and artfully displayed 😉
Traditional, European culture with a wedding twist. Set up pretzel stands during cocktail hour. It’s probably never been done at your friends’ weddings!
Do not fear taxidermy. It can actually add a nice old-world touch to elegant, traditional decor. And your groom will probably love it!
Use salvaged wood as a display shelf. You can prop family photos, hor’doeuvres, or flowers for a new (and aged) look.
Making guests comfortable is never a bad idea. Creating modern lounge areas with bold colors always creates a warm welcome to any event or room. (Something traditionalists will also appreciate)!
Traditional rug = non traditional isle runner. We think persian rugs make the best runners!
Chartreuse is a great modern color that works well with old and new decor. Adding this into your spring or summer color palatte may be the solution to keeping things casual and contemporary! In this particular setting, recycled goods make great containers for napkins and simple centerpieces.
Happy planning, bride-to-be’s!
– SM