For couples that find fascination in history and like to focus on the ‘something old’ part of the wedding tradition, a theme rooted in history can add a special element to their day. A historical theme can be the starting point for everything from the food and clothes, to the flowers and decoration of the room, transporting the whole wedding party back in time.
Victorian themed
The Victorian era has a renowned reputation for being a period of opulence and sophistication. It was when many of the first wedding traditions actually became…traditions; including the white wedding dress, popularised by Queen Victoria, the ‘Wedding March’ and even engagement rings. 
Embrace the decadence and finery with a wedding breakfast of high tea, intricately decorated cakes and light sandwiches. When it comes to the florals, opt for light coloured and fragrant, typically bouquets of myrtle, tea roses and ferns tied with blue ribbon.
Those looking for an added touch of Victorian charm can exchange vows in the splendour of the museum’s recreated Pleasure Gardens, beneath a lit pagoda and twinkling stars. This can be perfectly rounded off with a post ceremony drinks reception in the immersive Victorian Walk, a visually stunning representation of 19th century London.
Roman themed
Maybe you want a more ROMANtic approach to your historical wedding theme! Think togas, laurel wreaths, columns and lots of wine. Let your guests be whisked away to Londinium and let the Museum of London provide a tour of the many Roman artefacts that highlight the important place that London had in the tale of the Roman empire. Serve a feast of cheese, grapes, and assorted meats and dress the tables with citrus fruits and olive branches to create a Mediterranean feel, whilst having menus displayed on papyrus. At the Museum of London, to really accentuate the theme, couples can also provide centrepieces of period jewellery and Roman artefacts to add something extra special to your experience.
Medieval themed
A Medieval themed wedding allows couples to live out their fairy tale dreams with a combination of romantic traditions and history. People of the middle ages embraced colour whole heartedly, making it a celebration of life and love. Take inspiration from the period and have the wedding party dressed in an array of colours in the medieval style of fitted bodices and high coloured jackets for the men. Decorate invites in jewel tones and use a calligrapher for a uniquely authentic touch. For bouquets and floral crowns use pink carnations as your base, as they symbolised marriage in the medieval age. For the remaining floral displays, try flowers in earthy romantic colours like pink, green and white. Provide a banquet on long tables adorned with heavily spiced dishes, like lamb with saffron and seasonal vegetable. Decorate with fresh flowers and candles to add both a romantic and historical effect.
For full on immersion in the medieval theme, consider including medieval actors and musicians to interact with guests. From a court jester to jugglers, the only limit is your imagination!
If you’re interested in hosting your big day in a unique setting that is sure to go down in history, get in touch with the Museum of London here.
Written by Nicole Parker, Events & Weddings Manager at the Museum of London
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