How to Plan a Vintage Glam 1920’s Inspired Wedding in Buffalo, NY
- Upstate Indie Weddings
- 1 hour ago
- 4 min read
The 1920s will always be remembered for its effortless glamour — glittering parties, Art Deco design, and timeless fashion. For couples who love that era, it’s tempting to go “all in” with feathers, fringe, and flapper dresses. But the key to creating a vintage glam wedding that feels elegant (not kitschy) is restraint. The goal isn’t to replicate a 1920s theme party — it’s to borrow the best elements of the era and weave them subtly into your modern celebration.
Here in Buffalo, local vendors like The Show at Shea’s Seneca, New Ivory Bridal, AJ Custom Suits, and Stems Glass Co. are experts at helping couples strike the perfect balance. Let’s look at how you can achieve a hint of Gatsby without overdoing it.
The Venue: Let the Space Speak for Itself
When you choose a venue like The Show at Shea’s Seneca, the vintage glamour is already built in. Originally opened in the 1920s, its soaring ceilings and restored architectural details provide the perfect nod to the Jazz Age.
Instead of filling the room with overtly themed props, let the venue shine. Use warm lighting, draped linens, and simple but chic centerpieces to accentuate the Art Deco details. A champagne tower or candle-lined entrance are small touches that nod to the 1920s without feeling like a set design.
The Bride’s Look: Subtle Glamour from New Ivory Bridal
1920s bridal fashion was all about elegance and sparkle — but you don’t need a literal flapper dress to capture the essence. At New Ivory Bridal, you’ll find modern gowns with intricate beadwork, sleek silhouettes, or dramatic draping that hint at vintage influence while still feeling current.
Accessories are where you can lean into the vibe without going overboard. Think: a pearl-embellished hairpin, a bold red lip, or a cathedral-length veil with delicate embroidery. These subtle details elevate your look with vintage sophistication, not costume drama.
The Groom’s Look: Classic with a Twist
The 1920s were peak tuxedo and three-piece suit territory, and AJ Custom Suits can help grooms embrace that dapper vibe without looking like they’re in a period play. A tailored black or navy tux, a vest, or a well-chosen bow tie are understated ways to channel the style of the era.
For couples who want something bolder, consider a velvet jacket or patterned pocket square — small elements that nod to the jazz age without overwhelming the look.
The Tablescape: Vintage Glassware by Stems Glass Co.
Décor is often where a theme can tip into “too much.” But with Stems Glass Co., your tablescape can whisper 1920s elegance instead of shouting it. Their collection of vintage glassware — think smoky goblets, emerald and peachy tones, or gold-rimmed coupes — instantly elevates the vibe of a table.
Pairing these unique pieces with modern linens and tonal florals keeps the look fresh, while the vintage glass is just enough to tie back to your theme. Guests will feel the nod to the past without it feeling staged.
Easy & Elevated Ways to Hint at a Vintage Glam Wedding
Here are a few more refined touches that bring in the vintage spirit:
Music Choices: Mix a little swing or jazz into your cocktail hour playlist, but let the reception include your modern favorites.
Cocktail Hour Style: Serve signature drinks in coupe glasses — French 75s, gin martinis, or champagne with a sugar cube. Classic, not cheesy.
Stationery Design: Use subtle Art Deco-inspired fonts and gold foil accents for your invitations. Keep the color palette modern with neutrals or muted jewel tones.
Lighting: Opt for candle clusters, soft uplighting, or chandeliers that create a moody, elegant atmosphere instead of neon signs or props.
Grand Exit: Skip the feather boas and go for a timeless detail like a vintage car getaway.
Just Married | The Show at Shea's Seneca
Bringing It All Together
The key to a successful vintage glam wedding is restraint. You don’t need to fill your day with props or costumes — a few thoughtful choices will do the work for you. With Buffalo’s talented vendors — from The Show at Shea’s Seneca’s historic backdrop, to New Ivory Bridal’s modern gowns with vintage touches, to AJ Custom Suits’ sharp tailoring, to Stems Glass Co.’s unique rentals — you can create a celebration that feels timeless, elegant, and true to your personal style.
Your guests won’t feel like they’ve walked into a theme party. Instead, they’ll leave with the impression of a wedding that was glamorous, sophisticated, and uniquely yours — with just the right hint of 1920s sparkle.
👉 Ready to bring your subtle vintage glam wedding vision to life? Explore the Upstate Indie Weddings directory to connect with the local vendors who can make it happen.
Participating Vendors:
Planning & Host: @upstateindieweddings
Venue: @sheasenecashow
Apparel: @newivorybridal @ajcustomsuits
Glam: @aesthetics_by_alexandria @root_and_bloomsalon @curenailparlor
Florals: @sageflower716
Decor: @sallymariestudio @stemsglassco
Sweets: @cakeboutique_sweet_em
Photography: @pbyalexandra @jesstrankleimages @hollenbecksphotography @oliviadamato_statelyphotos
Video: @brettdeneve716
Models: Rachel & Scott Beckstein @cottagebloomcandleco
