Elegant Vintage Wedding Menus
The rise in homemade, shabby chic vintage style weddings seems to have peaked.
What was once a unique and welcome alternative to WAG extravagance has rather lost its meaning amongst all the Instagrams, the polka dot bunting, and the faded shades of Union Jack tableware that is everywhere this summer.
Fear not vintage lovers! By 2014 “Homemade shabby chic” will have been replaced by “vintage elegance”, with the roaring 1920’s as the driving inspiration. Stop thinking Darling Buds of May, village fair and Keep Calm and Carry On, start thinking Great Gatsby, The Artist, art deco, Mackintosh, tall ceilings and clean lines.
Achieving vintage elegance means replacing clutter with simplicity. One amazing live band to replace the musical roulette of the iPod playlist. One statement antique centerpiece instead of mountains of individual antiquities. Shining mirrors and glittering glass taking precedence over rough edges and wooden nicknacks. And white; lots and lots of white. Crisp linens, blowsey peonies, delicate lace... you get the picture!
In terms of vintage food, pretty plates are definitely back in style. Also, say goodbye to DIY service and the “help yourself” attitude, hello to Jeeves and the discrete perfection of the professional butler. 2014 couples are opting for elegant and classic choices over the rough and rustic style that has led the way over the past two summers.
Here is my example:
Starter
Out: Tomato tarte tatin with wild rocket salad
In: Beetroot cured salmon with celeriac remoulade
Main
Out: Family style mains with meat carved at the table
In: Beef Wellington with duchess potatoes and fine green beans
Dessert
Out: Panna cotta
In: Crème brûlée
Finish
Out: Tea and homemade chocolates
In: Rich coffee and French macaroons
Cakes
Out: Cupcakes
In: Real cheese cakes
Article by Wedding Catering Specialist Julie Gray
Images Courtesy of Lloyd Dobbie
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