How Is Thrifting Changing the Standard Ceremony?

5 First-Rate Second-Hand Ideas

Your wedding ceremony is one of the most extravagant events in your life. While there’s glamor in all of the exciting extras — from décor to entertainment — more and more couples are gravitating toward intentional and sustainable practices.     

The Rise of Thrifting 

Thrift stores have existed for a long time, but they’ve grown in popularity over recent years. The movement started within the fashion sphere — style enthusiasts are rejecting fast fashion and moving to more sustainable options like second-hand clothing. Having a thrifted item in your closet keeps it out of landfills and doesn’t require the resources a brand-new clothing item does to produce.

There’s also the thrill of finding hidden treasures like an annotated book, a one-of-a-kind mug or a vintage picture frame. Many people post on social media about their experience hunting down different pieces and styling them.  

Many also appreciate grabbing a bargain. Whether it’s clothing or other materials, they will likely have a lower price tag compared to new items.  

What to Thrift for Your Wedding 

Thrifting items for your wedding can promote sustainability while maximizing your budget. Here’s what you can add to your shopping list when you visit the resale stores. 

1. Décor:

Décor can set the scene for your wedding ceremony. Consider thrifting key pieces to keep your costs and carbon footprint low. You can get creative with how you use them, too. Some hidden treasures you can look out for include:

• Old hardcover books: Secondhand hardcover books are ideal if your wedding has a vintage theme. Turn them into beautiful table centerpieces on top of lace tablecloths.  

• Glass jars and bottles: Polish glass jars and bottles with a cloth before repurposing them as flower vases. Some also like to use them as elegant candle holders. 

• Vintage lamps: Use old lamps as a light source or creative décor. You can even upcycle them with paint to match your wedding colors.  

• Inexpensive lumber: Invite your wedding party to help you DIY your secondhand finds. You can create rustic signs and customize reclaimed wood pieces to welcome guests or share your favorite quotes.   

• Picture frames: Create beautiful wedding signage with preloved picture frames. Add your own photographs or commission unique calligraphy that invites guests to sign the guest book or take a wedding favor.  
• LED candles: LED lights are long-lasting and likely to work even after they’ve been donated. Look for flameless candle designs to tablescap the dining or cocktail area.  
  

2. Cutlery

Some couples are starting to remove single-use plastic from their wedding festivities. Opting for sustainable silverware and dishes can help fight the waste and environmental damage that results from the almost 300 million tons of plastic produced yearly. Search for spoons, forks, knives and plates at the thrift store.  

You can also choose a more luxurious option and find high-quality plates and cutlery at your thrift store. Vintage china would go beautifully with more formal wedding themes. Give each table its own set of teapots, teacups and coasters for a nice tea ceremony. You can also look for cake stands and cake plates.  

3. Stationery 

Wedding invitations help you share the big news with your family and friends. Look for unique stationery. You can print the same details or opt for personalized, old-fashioned handwriting instead — either way, it will give a unique look. 

Make sure you look for other supplies as well. Maybe there’s a pre-loved scrapbook that you can use as a guestbook. Leave colored pencils and stickers for loved ones and encourage them to leave a message and doodle. 

4. Wedding Attire 

Some brides resell or donate their wedding dresses to charity shops to ensure others can use them or to earn some of their money back. Dig through the aisles and you may just find the ideal, barely worn gown. Other items you can thrift include: 

• Tuxedos: Four-figure suits are much cheaper at the thrift store compared to department stores, and you can potentially find one that fits well or requires minimal alteration.  

• Other event dresses: Maybe you find a beautiful dress that doesn’t quite fit the bill for your ceremony. You could use it for the bridal shower or wedding rehearsal. If you want to change into a second look for your reception, the great deals at the thrift store will let you get multiple outfits without overextending your budget. 

• Shoes: Shoes can be expensive, especially when they’re brand-new. Thrift stores have many affordable options, whether you’re seeking flats or heels. 

• Jewelry: Style your wedding attire with secondhand jewelry and accessories. You can look for recycled gold or reclaimed gems for the wedding rings in antique shops. Add a nice pair of earrings and a necklace to the haul for your ceremony.  

5. Wedding Favors 

The thrift stores’ affordable prices and large selection of items make them the best spot to look for wedding favors. For example, you could pick out as many mugs as you want and display them at your reception. You can add a note that lets guests know they are up for grabs.  

Some shops also offer plenty of secondhand paperbacks. You can wrap them up and make them a surprise title for your guests’ reading lists. Records also make brilliant favors if you and your loved ones are music enthusiasts.   

Why Couples are Thrifting for Their Wedding 

The main appeal of thrifting for a wedding is that your budget stretches further. According to The Washington Post, the cost of traditional wedding staples — including photography, cake, catering and flowers — has increased by over 20%, prompting many couples to rethink their plans for the big day. Thrifting centerpieces and other wedding décor can help alleviate the rising costs of weddings.  

Thrifting also allows you to personalize your wedding. Secondhand stores are often full of unexpected treasures. Whether you’re thinking of vintage flair or industrialist vibes, you get to make your big day as unique and intentional as possible.  

How to Have a Great Haul 

Even if you’re a regular at your local thrift store, exploring the racks for wedding decor might feel intimidating for such a big event. However, you can follow the same process in getting a good haul. Try out these tips when collecting your items: 

• Know where to go: Thrift stores come in all shapes and sizes. Consider visiting chain stores, antique places and other charity shops.  You can run through flea markets and find a gold mine of treasures.    

• Explore online: Facebook Marketplace, ThredUp, eBay and similar sites are great resources for shopping secondhand. You can also check out wedding groups on Facebook and other platforms to connect with already-married couples selling their items.  

• Check often: Many thrift stores receive a steady stream of shipments and donations. Don’t get discouraged or take a store off your list if you don’t find anything the first time you go. Cycle through a few different ones so there’s new stock when you return. Plus, the more you practice hunting down treasures, the easier it will be to spot the gems.  

Make Your Finds as Good as New 

Some people shy away from thrifting because of the potential age of the items. Older items do have their own charm, but they can look a little out of place in more modern weddings. Make your finds look and smell as good as new with these tips: 

• Wash, wash, wash: For clothing, check the care label to see if the fabric is machine washable and wash as is. You can consider handwashing or dry cleaning if possible. For cutlery, you want to thoroughly clean everything. 

• Deodorize: Certain items can have an odd smell after being in the store for some time. You can typically add a layer of baking soda to the item, as this absorbs the fragrance and gives it a more neutral scent.  

• Personalize: Feel free to tweak and DIY your finds to suit your wedding. For instance, a layer of gold paint on decor can help you stay aligned with your color palette. Embroidery on dresses can give them a unique or sentimental twist.  

Thrifting for Your Big Day 

Going secondhand for your wedding ceremony can make your day even more meaningful. Thrifted wedding decor is often more sustainable, personal and unique. Plus, your budget will stretch further whether you’re looking to increase your savings or enjoy a luxurious honeymoon.