How to style a vintage lounge area your guests wont want to leave

Step-by-step guide to styling a vintage lounge for Melbourne weddings

Who says your wedding lounge area has to be all formal and stiff? A vintage-inspired lounge is the perfect spot for guests to relax, sip a drink, and soak up the atmosphere - and yes, it can be both stylish and comfy. Here’s how to get it right.

1. Choose the right furniture

Start with sofas, armchairs, ottomans, and coffee tables that ooze character. Look for pieces with soft upholstery, ornate details, or curved lines, basically, anything that invites a “plop down and stay awhile” moment.

Pro tip: mix and match different eras. Picture a velvet armchair with old-world charm sitting next to a mid-century leather sofa, the mix of styles creates a lounge area your guests will remember (And yes, our armchairs and lounge pieces slot perfectly into these setups!)

2. Create comfort with textiles

Throw cushions, soft blankets, and layered textiles instantly make a lounge area feel cosy. Velvet, lace, or embroidered fabrics in muted or pastel tones add a subtle vintage touch while keeping guests comfy.

Think of it as Instagrammable comfort: pretty enough to photograph, soft enough to nap on if your uncle starts talking politics.

3. Incorporate vintage accents

Old books, vintage suitcases, antique picture frames, these little touches give your lounge personality and charm. They’re conversation starters too, so your guests will feel right at home.

4. Define the space with rugs

Rugs aren’t just decorative; they anchor the furniture and visually define the lounge area. Vintage-style rugs tie everything together and add warmth - literally and aesthetically. Bonus: they give your photographer that extra cosy shot.

5. Use soft, warm lighting

Lighting sets the mood. Think vintage-style lamps, chandeliers, or string lights. Candles in antique holders add romance and make your lounge glow when the sun goes down.

6. Include greenery and florals

Potted plants, mason-jar florals, or a small arrangement on a coffee table bring freshness and life to your space. Nature + vintage furniture = perfection.

7. Arrange furniture thoughtfully

The goal: conversation-friendly seating. Group chairs and sofas in sets of 2-4, leaving enough space to move around comfortably. Guests should be able to chat, laugh, and relax without bumping elbows or stepping on toes.

8. Personalise it

Add sentimental touches like framed photos of the couple, or even vintage family photos. It gives the lounge a personal story and makes it feel intimate, like your guests are part of the celebration, not just spectators.

9. Coordinate with your overall theme

Make sure your lounge complements the overall wedding style and colour palette. It should feel cohesive, not like a mismatched thrift shop exploded in the corner.

Final Thoughts

A successful vintage lounge area balances old-world charm with modern comfort. With a little creativity, the right furniture, and thoughtful styling, your lounge becomes a spot your guests want to hang out in - and maybe even fight over who gets the velvet armchair first.

Time to get styling!

Browse our Vintage Lounge collection now - your dream lounge starts here.