The 1970s were an iconic decade filled with disco, bell-bottoms, and bold fashion choices. It’s no surprise that many couples today are looking to incorporate the groovy vibes of the 70s into their wedding day.
If you’re planning a 70s-inspired wedding, we’ve put together some tips on how to host a truly groovy celebration. From decorations to music to attire, we’ve got you covered.
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Setting the Stage for a 70s Wedding
The key to a successful 70s-inspired wedding is creating an immersive experience for your guests. This means incorporating elements of the 70s into every aspect of your wedding, from the invitations to the decorations.
Everything must scream “70s” – from the color palette to the music and even the food. Consider using vibrant colors like orange, yellow, and green for your decor, and incorporate iconic 70s patterns such as paisley or tie-dye.
Food & Drinks
No groovy 70s-inspired wedding is complete without some retro snacks and cocktails.
Consider serving classic dishes from the decade such as deviled eggs, fondue, and of course shrimp cocktails.
Another popular dish during the 70s were cheese balls, which are easy to make and can be served with crackers or vegetables. Plus, who doesn’t love cheese?
For the main course, transport your guests back in time with dishes that were the height of sophistication and indulgence in the 70s. Chicken Kiev, with its buttery, herbed center encased in a crispy breadcrumb coating, offers a delightful surprise with each bite and encapsulates the experimental culinary spirit of the era.
Alternatively, for a truly opulent option, serve Steak Diane. This dish, often flambéed tableside, combines the rich flavors of beef steak with a luxurious mushroom and brandy sauce, providing not just a meal, but a show
For drinks, think of popular cocktails from the 70s like the Harvey Wallbanger, Tequila Sunrise, or Sex on the Beach. You can even create a signature cocktail for your wedding, incorporating fun retro names like “Funky Fizz” or “Disco Delight.”
Lastly, mimosas became extremely popular during the 70s. Adding a mimosa bar to your wedding will not only add a touch of nostalgia but also allow your guests to customize their own drinks.
Setting up a mimosa bar for your 70s-inspired wedding is a delightful way to add a splash of nostalgia and customization to your special day. Using a mimosa bar kit simplifies the process, ensuring that your guests can effortlessly create their own bubbly concoctions.
This kit on Amazon includes everything you would need with over 90s pieces. Making it simple, easy, and stress free!
Dressing for the Occasion
When it comes to attire, the 70s were all about self-expression and making bold fashion statements. Encourage your guests to embrace this by opting for 70s-inspired fashion.
For men, think of suits with wider lapels, flared trousers, and possibly even a vest to complete the look. Think of wider proportions and more relaxed fits. Integrating materials like velvet or designs like houndstooth can lend a genuine flair to the outfit.
We’re talking thick lapels and trousers with higher rises and flared legs. If you think Mick Jagger would be wearing it, it’s probably the right style. Vintage suites from the 70s would have wide lapels. Which are very noticeable… in a subtle way. You want to look for wide shoulders as well as bell-bottom trouses.
You’ll want to also have a colorful wedding. Nothing is more retro then the color scheme you use. Think red, orange, maroons, or brown
Lastly, if you really want to tie it all together, get a pair of Lunettes de Solei style sunglasses. These are an iconic look from the 70s and will add a touch of nostalgia to your outfit.
For women, there are quite a few different common trends you would find during the 70s;
- Long dresses
- High necklines
- Billowing sleeves
- Low backs
- Armbands
- Off-the-shoulder sleeves
- Unique embellishments
- Floral embroidery
- Disco-inspired sequins
- Bohemian lace motifs
It was also common in the 70s for dresses to be handmade, adding a layer of uniqueness and personal touch to wedding fashion that is still cherished today.
By considering custom-made attire for your wedding, you can capture the essence of the era, ensuring that each dress or suit has its own special story and flair, mirroring the authentic and individualistic spirit of the 70s. This approach not only honors the traditions of the time but also allows for creativity and personal expression in your wedding attire.
70s wedding dresses from the actual decade, range from prim Gunne Sax designs to bombastic pantsuits (yes, even in weddings). This diversity in style presents a wealth of options for brides aiming to capture that authentic 70s essence on their wedding day.
The Gunne Sax dresses, with their high collars and lace detailing, evoke a sense of whimsy and romance, ideal for those desiring a more traditional look with a vintage twist.
On the other end of the spectrum, opting for a tailored pantsuit channels the era’s progressive spirit and is perfect for the bride seeking to make a bold, unconventional statement. Between these extremes lies a myriad of options, from ethereal, flowy gowns to glittering disco-inspired numbers, ensuring every 70s enthusiast can find their dream wedding attire.
Invitations and Save-the-Dates
Invitations and save-the-dates are the first glimpse your guests will have of your wedding theme. Make sure they set the tone for a groovy 70s celebration by incorporating elements such as bold fonts, bright colors, and retro graphics.
Consider using vintage-inspired stamps or adding a disco ball or lava lamp design element to give your invitations that extra touch of 70s flair. You can even include a fun catchphrase like “Get groovy with us” or “Come disco the night away.”
The Venue
When choosing a venue for your 70s-inspired wedding, look for locations that have a retro vibe or offer unique features such as an outdoor space with groovy decor or an indoor space with shag carpeting and funky lighting.
You can also bring in decorations to create the perfect atmosphere, such as hanging disco balls, vibrant string lights, and colorful streamers.
If a traditional venue doesn’t fit your theme, consider alternative options such as a retro bowling alley or roller skating rink. These unconventional venues can add an extra element of fun and nostalgia to your special day.
Music
No 70s-inspired wedding is complete without some groovy tunes. Consider hiring a live band that plays hits from the era, or creating a playlist featuring popular songs from the 70s.
If it’s within your budget, a live band is ALWAYS going to be the best choice. Not only are they entertaining, but they will also bring an authentic sound to your wedding.
Here’s a 70s wedding playlist on Spotify if you want some inspiration.
If you opt for a playlist, make sure to include artists such as The Bee Gees, Donna Summer, and ABBA – all of whom were chart-topping during the 70s. You can even ask guests for song requests beforehand to ensure everyone gets a chance to dance to their favorite 70s hit.
Groovy Decorations and Design
Once the stage is set, it’s time to bring your vision to life with decorative elements that scream ’70s chic.
Color Palette
The ’70s were all about a spectrum of equally intense colors. To achieve the right look, opt for shades that make a statement. Think harvest gold, avocado green, and burnt orange, or burst of bright colors if you’re aiming for a more disco-themed affair.
Complement these with earthy neutrals like browns and tans that were popular for that era’s “salt of the earth” movement.
Some other 70s-inspired color palettes include:
- Peach
- Marigold
- Moody dark
- Orange and teal
- Mauve and mustard
- Blush and rust
Centerpieces and Table Settings
Incorporate elements that are synonymous with the decade’s interior design trends. Metallic candelabras, sleek vases filled with bold-hued flowers, and geometric patterns for tablecloths or napkins bring a real 70s vibe.
Use antique, mismatched china and glassware to add a touch of nostalgia and uniqueness to each table setting.
Lighting
Lighting is key to creating the right ambiance for any wedding, and a 70s-inspired celebration is no exception. Consider disco balls as centerpieces or scattered throughout the venue for a retro feel.
You can also use colored string lights or neon signs to add a pop of color and create a fun, funky atmosphere.
Photo Booth
If you’re having a 70s inspired wedding, a photo booth is almost required. After all, what better way to capture all your guests in their groovy attire than with a photo booth filled with fun props and vintage filters?
You can even create your own backdrop using colorful streamers or a disco ball as the focal point. This will provide not only great memories but also some unique and creative wedding photos.
Other props like peace signs, afro wigs, and oversized sunglasses for a playful nod to the decade.
You can also include a customized backdrop with iconic 70s images or patterns for an extra touch of nostalgia.
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Wrapping Up in Retro Style
From the decor to the music and everything in between, a 70s-inspired wedding allows you to get creative and have fun.
Embrace the decade’s bold colors, funky patterns, and unique culinary options for a memorable and groovy celebration that will transport you and your guests back in time.
As you plan your 70s-inspired wedding, don’t be afraid to think outside the box and have fun with incorporating elements from this groovy decade. From food and drinks to decorations and music, let the spirit of the 70s infuse every aspect of your special day for a truly unforgettable experience.
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