30 Ideas for Planning an Old Money Wedding
Want your wedding to scream "luxury"? Check out our list of 30 ideas that will instantly give an old money wedding vibe to your big day
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If you’re dreaming of a wedding that feels timeless, refined, and utterly elegant, the old money wedding aesthetic might just be your perfect match. Defined by understated luxury and subtle nods to heritage, an old money style wedding celebrates sophistication over flash.
When beginning your old money wedding journey, you might want to start by browsing the best stately home wedding venues for some inspiration. From Saltburn manor houses to rolling farm estates, there's a perfect spot for every couple.
And if you need a little more food for thought, keep reading for our ultimate old money wedding guide. From classic old money wedding dresses to perfectly pared-back florals, we’ve gathered 30 ideas to help you bring this trend to life.
- Old Money Wedding Venues
- Old Money Wedding Dresses & Accessories
- Old Money Styles & Stationery
- Old Money Wedding Decor
- Old Money Wedding Hair & Makeup
- Old Money Wedding Food & Drink
- How to Nail the Old Money Aesthetic: Expert Advice
Old Money Wedding Venues
The right old money wedding venue sets the tone for your entire celebration. From grand manor houses to private estates and museums, these timeless spaces create the perfect backdrop for an old money style wedding.
1. Grand Manor Houses
Historic manor houses with sweeping lawns are perfect old money wedding venues. We think this particular venue, Colshaw Hall in Knutsford, would make the most perfect backdrop for an old money wedding, thanks to the rolling manicured lawns, marble flooring and seven luxurious en-suite bedrooms.
2. Private Estates
Private homes offer intimacy with an air of exclusivity, so if tying the knot at home is at all feasible, it can be a chic way to put on a luxurious party! And don't worry if it means making the guest list smaller - exclusivity is even more "old money".
3. Museums or Galleries
Celebrate surrounded by culture and history by tying the knot in a beautiful gallery or a historic museum. We especially love Dulwich Picture Gallery, as the famous paintings and grand interiors make for a dramatic yet plush celebration.
4. Iconic Stately Homes
Venues like Hedsor House or St Giles embody the old money wedding aesthetic, so look for buildings with a famous story - there's nothing quite like tying the knot surrounded by generations of history.
5. Castle Wedding Venues
If you want to feel like actual royalty, why not consider tying the knot in a castle? Castle Goring in West Sussex is a beautiful choice, and was once described by "the most romantic castle in the land" by Lord Byron himself!
From old money wedding dresses to venues and bouquets, these 30 ideas prove that sophistication lies in simplicity.
Old Money Wedding Dresses & Accessories
A classic old money wedding dress is all about timeless elegance and understated details. From pearl-detailed veils to chic old money wedding shoes and tailored suits, here’s how to style your look with quiet luxury.
6. The Classic Silhouette
Choose a classic old money wedding dress in silk, satin, or crepe. Keep embellishments minimal - the fabric and cut should take centre stage.
7. Pearl Detailing
Add subtle pearls to your gown, whether sewn into the neckline, scattered across a veil or featured on a headband. It’s the ultimate nod to wedding dresses old money style, and we love these ones available from Victoria's Bridal Boutique.
8. Square or Sweetheart Necklines
Timeless and flattering, these necklines are a hallmark of old money wedding dresses and never go out of style.
9. Understated Train
Opt for a gown with a simple yet dramatic train for an elegant entrance. It’s grandeur without being showy, and gorgeous lace design from Katya Katya London achieves just that.
10. Vintage-Inspired Gloves
Elevate your look with satin gloves - an iconic accessory for a classic old money wedding.
Old Money Wedding Styles & Stationery
Your style and stationery are the first glimpses guests get of your old money wedding aesthetic. Classic colour combinations and timeless old money wedding invitations set the scene for an elegant celebration.
11. Classic White & Green
Keep it timeless with a white and green palette, the foundation of the old money wedding aesthetic. Ambience Venue Styling Essex South has perfected this look with a gorgeous sage green table design, and we love the addition of a little macaron on each plate!
12. Butter Yellow Accents
For spring, add subtle hints of butter yellow. It’s soft, elegant, and never overpowering - imagine beautiful pastel wedding invitations and matching envelopes for a gorgeously spring-like look.
13. Deep Burgundy Touches
Perfect for autumn, this colour brings richness and depth without being bold. Dark, contrasting colours always have a dramatic effect, and pairing burgundy with white is a beautiful way to nail the old money style.
We love this gorgeous burgundy cake from Beth Bakes - it pairs beautifully with the matching flowers.
14. Monochrome Wedding Stationery
If you want to keep it classic and dramatic, nothing says "old money" better than black and white, monochrome wedding invitations. The contrast of colour is timeless, and perfectly blends modern chic with rich elegance.
15. Wax Seals
Add a personalised wax seal to every single wedding invitation for a luxurious finish - not only does it add a beautiful touch of customisation to each one, but it also gives a premium feel to your wedding stationery.
This set of wedding stationery from Paper Swan Stationery does it perfectly - talk about old money vibes!
Old Money Wedding Decor
When it comes to old money wedding decor, less is always more. Soft florals, antique-inspired details, and candlelit tablescapes help create a setting that feels both classic and effortlessly stylish.
16. Understated Florals
Think shallow bowls with flowers cascading over the edges. Abundance isn’t the goal - texture and restraint are.
17. Candles & Antique Lamps
Fill your tables with candlelight and classic lamps for an instant old money wedding decor win. It doesn't get more luxurious than this gorgeous display from The London Candle Company.
Long white tablecloths, vintage glassware and crystal tapered candleholders just scream of old money.
18. Classic Place Settings
Keep your table styling simple: white linen, polished silver cutlery, and crystal glasses - it's effortlessly chic, and relatively easy to design.
19. Heritage-Inspired Details
Use heirloom-style items like silver candlesticks, antique vases or vintage napkin rings as a nod to the history of your venue or family. Remember - quiet luxury lies in the detail. We love the ones on show at this wedding organised by S3 Events.
20. Layered Textures
Velvet ribbons, silk runners, or linen napkins elevate your old money wedding theme without being ostentatious.
Old Money Wedding Hair & Makeup
The best old money wedding hairstyles and makeup looks are polished but unfussy. From slicked-back buns to Hollywood waves, paired with glowing, minimal makeup, the beauty aesthetic is refined and enduring.
21. Slicked-Back Bun
Loved by Hailey Bieber and Sophia Richie, this is the go-to old money wedding hairstyle. This nearlywed looks stunning, with a low slick bun styled by Sabrina Duparcq Hair & Makeup Agency.
22. Hollywood Waves
For nearlyweds who prefer their hair down, soft Hollywood waves wedding hair feels polished yet romantic.
23. Low Chignon
Timeless and elegant, the low chignon has royal wedding vibes. This is a sleek and simple up-do styled by Leanne Lishman Artistry, and is a perfect example of how effortless an understated low bun can be.
24. Pearl Hair Accessories
Swap tiaras for pearl pins or a pearl-detailed headband.
25. Classic French Twist
Sophisticated and sleek, the French twist is ideal for an old money themed wedding. Finish with a pearl accessory or an embellished clasp like this nearlywed styled by Ieva Genovesi, and you're good to go.
Old Money Wedding Food & Drink
An old money themed wedding calls for refined food and drink that’s as elegant as the setting. Think tiered old money wedding cakes, champagne towers, and beautifully plated menus that exude timeless sophistication.
26. Champagne Tower
Nothing says old money wedding aesthetic quite like a champagne tower. It’s classic, theatrical, and instantly elevates your drinks reception.
27. Oyster Bar
A curated oyster or seafood bar brings sophistication to your canapés, echoing the heritage feel of an old money themed wedding.
Of course, it's even easier to have seafood at your wedding when you're tying the knot by the coast, as demonstrated by this gorgeous spread at No.42 by Guesthouse Margate.
28. Elegant Plated Dinner
Swap sharing platters for a refined, plated menu of classic dishes - think fillet steak, sole, or roast chicken served with seasonal vegetables.
29. Traditional Tiered Wedding Cake
Keep your old money wedding cake timeless with smooth white icing, minimal piping, and perhaps fresh florals as decoration. This three-tiered design from Elizabeth Harris may look minimalistic, but the detailed piping and tall tiers make for a stunningly dramatic finish.
30. Whiskey Bar
Introduce a tasting bar with vintage ports or single malts, offering guests a refined nightcap that ties into the old money wedding aesthetic.
How to Nail the Old Money Aesthetic: Expert Advice
Still feeling stumped about how to perfect the ultimate old money wedding aesthetic? Look no further, as we've asked Rebecca from Get Wed wedding planners for her top tips and advice about how to achieve this luxurious finish.
From choosing the best old money venue to opting for the poshest blooms, here's what she had to say!
What is an "old money" wedding?
"It’s quite a specific reference to a certain kind of timeless design.
"Although the term itself can sound slightly crass, it's referring to an aesthetic which quietly nods to the 1920s, a kind of understated opulence."
How do I style an old money wedding dress?
"The obvious answer is pearls, but the modern take sees nearlyweds wearing bold pearl earrings, or perhaps a pearl encrusted veil. A pair of small, sleek sunglasses go a long way for this look too."
What colours are best for an old money wedding?
"Understated is the key thing to remember here, so keeping it classic with whites and greens is the best way to go.
"If you do add in another colour, it shouldn’t be bright. Something like a pale butter yellow or dark burgundy will add depth and dimension."
How do I decorate an old money wedding venue?
"Everything to do with old money weddings is about being understated. The likelihood is if you’re going for this vibe, you’re probably in a venue that has some sort of historical architecture, so let that do a lot of the talking for you.
"Thinking about texture is key, and not having anything too bold. Interesting florals that softly fold over the edge of a bowl and classic lamps are a quick win to decorating an old money style wedding."
What hairstyles suit an old money wedding?
"Hailey Bieber and Sophia Richie fans will be pleased to know that the slick back bun is a no brainer here. But if you’re more of a hair down gal, go for soft Hollywood waves."
Can an old money wedding be budget-friendly?
"Absolutely. It’s all about understated luxury, abundance is nowhere to be seen. Placing your budget wisely into key stand out details will help keep the overall spend down, whilst still providing a stunning outcome."
What venues suit an old money wedding theme?
"Historical buildings like manor houses, museums, and private estates are perfect."
How do I choose an old money wedding bouquet?
"Again keeping it simple is the best way. Either a chic bouquet of white roses, or a small and simple posy of lily of the valley is perfect."
By focusing on heritage-inspired details, refined tailoring, and understated decor, you’ll create a celebration that feels classic, effortless, and entirely unforgettable. Want more inspiration? Check out the biggest wedding trends for the year ahead.
