With her floral design and event planning experience, Amanda Smith of White Pumpkin Wedding Design knows a thing or two about decor trends. If vintage is your wedding theme - but you don't want to go the Mason jar route, read on ...

Popular television shows like Boardwalk Empire and Downton Abbey, along with the return of the Great Gatsby, are changing the idea of what it means to have vintage wedding style. While Mason jars wrapped in twine, burlap and lace are lovely, these containers are being replaced by mercury glass also known as silvered glass containers.

Dating back to the 1800's, mirrored glass is more vintage than the canning jars that have become associated with that term. In the 19th Century, mercury glass was an affordable luxury that is still budget-friendly today. Knock-offs of the original are one of the hottest items in household décor. These beauties are like a diamond tennis bracelet – dressed up or down, they're a great addition to any affair.

Your "vintage with sophisticated glam" style can be best pulled off at a large Georgian manor house or in a grand ballroom of a historic hotel with tall ceilings and crystal chandeliers. During your venue walkthrough, make notes and snap pictures of the site's details - including wall sconces, ornate crown molding and interesting prints. Work with your event planner to incorporate these design details into your linens and décor. And set the tone of your event by bringing these elements into your wedding stationery.  

Cover your dinner tables with beautiful cream colored damask linens accented with jewel toned napkins. Use centerpieces of peach color roses, dusty miller and glorious foliage. Transport your guest to a time of flapper girls, bootleggers and gentlemen in zoot suits with food and drink to convey your vintage glam theme.  A 1930’s dinner party was not complete without a wiggly, jiggle gelatin mold treat. Very popular finger foods at the time included deviled eggs, ham and chicken salads - if you could grind it up and mix with mayonnaise it was served. Ask your caterer for ideas on food trends from the 20’s and 30’s.

Boutique rental companies specializing in vintage flair are popping up out of the love for re-purposing flea market finds. If they don’t have the item you desire, many offer services in finding specialty décor elements. Imagine a grand display of your wedding cake on top of an ornate tea trolley. Just be sure to use an editing eye in selecting the right locations for vintage glam props.

Build inspiration boards to track your ideas. Use the photos from your walkthrough to check your pins to make sure they will fit in your space as well as with other ideas. And edit selections to keep a clear picture of your design goals. 

Thanks for the terrific advice, Amanda! Are you looking for an event planner? To schedule an appointment with Amanda, call 703.786.3624 or email amanda@whitepumpkinwed.com.