Your London Wedding news and ideas from around the capital

Cake International returns for 2025

The world's premier cake decorating and baking show, Cake International, is back for 2025 and it's bringing even more flavour with it. Co-located with the ever-popular Bake International, this year's show promises to be the most spectacular yet, with new features, industry-leading exhibitors, hands-on workshops, and a landmark celebration to launch the Cake & Bake International Awards. Find out more here.

Meet Natalie Hill of The City Celebrant crafting heartfelt London wedding ceremonies

Newly certified celebrant Natalie Hill of The City Celebrant is bringing her unique touch to London weddings. Trained with Civil Ceremonies, Natalie specialises in weaving the city and the River Thames into her ceremony scripts—each one written entirely by her, with no AI involved. She collaborates closely with couples to create ceremonies that spark laughter, tug at heartstrings, and reflect their love story authentically. Amid the whirlwind of planning menus, dresses, and DJs, Natalie offers calm, creative guidance, helping couples focus on the heart of the day. Discover more about her personalised approach at thecitycelebrant.co.uk.

Wedding reforms: Freedom, flexibility… or fancy-dress farce?

Following a recent announcement of major reforms to the wedding laws in England and Wales, Kate Van Rol, barrister at 4PB advises what these changes could mean... The government's latest plan to reform weddings has been met with excitement, curiosity, and the occasional raised eyebrow from the vicarage. Ministers promise to liberate love from the clutches of red tape – simplifying the marriage process and allowing couples to wed in a manner that truly reflects their beliefs, personalities, and (let's be honest) Instagram aesthetic. Under these proposals, couples will no longer be bound by the old rulebook of marrying only in a church or registry office. Instead, weddings could take place almost anywhere – in gardens, on beaches, aboard boats, or even in a back garden with a barbecue and a borrowed gazebo. Religious and non-religious groups alike would be able to conduct legally binding ceremonies. It's marriage law for the modern age — simple, flexible, and tailor-made for a society that's allergic to formality. But as with all government reforms that sound too good to be true, there's a catch or two lurking beneath the confetti.

Show your bridal party love with Joma Jewellery’s sentimental sparkle “a littles” bracelets

Joma Jewellery's beloved "a littles" range offers the perfect way to thank your bridal party on your wedding day. Each bracelet features a delicate band adorned with gemstones, pearls, or personalised charms, beautifully packaged with gold-stamped messages straight from the heart. Founded in 2007 by Katie and Geoff, inspired by unique finds from a jewellery market in China, Joma Jewellery continues to grow while staying true to its mission—to celebrate every little moment with meaningful, personalised designs. With one "a little" bracelet sold every 30 seconds, it's no wonder these thoughtful pieces remain timeless favourites. Discover more at jomajewellery.com.

Would you like to win your hen do?

GoHen.com, one of the UK's leading hen party planners, are giving one lucky bride-to-be the chance to win her entire hen weekend for free. Yep, one lucky group will win an unforgettable GoHen weekend for 10 friends worth £2,000 – for free! With 70+ amazing destinations across the UK and Europe, and 1,000s of activities and accommodation options to choose from, you can make your send-off exactly how you imagined it – whether that's spa days and cocktails or beach clubs and bottomless brunches.

A meaningful Christmas gift

Knowing what to get your loved ones a Christmas seems to get harder every year. What to get people who seemingly want nothing but have everything? This year, gift them mindfulness with Myind Map MY Journal. created by Rosemary Ikpeme, this journal takes users on a 90-day journey of self-discovery and mindfulness activities. This journal blends productivity tools with mindset practices, combining visualisation, the law of attraction, and colour therapy illustrations to support reflection and manifestation.

Somerset House and Moving Venue create an exclusive summer 2026 London destination for weddings

Internationally acclaimed arts landmark Somerset House and London's renowned caterer Moving Venue have teamed up to present an extraordinary new destination for weddings and private events. For a limited season in June and July 2026, the iconic Edmond J. Safra Fountain Court will be transformed with elegant, purpose-built structures—creating a stunning architectural setting for celebrations of all sizes. With capacity for 500 seated guests and up to 2,500 for receptions, the flexible layout offers both open-air and covered spaces, perfect for magical al fresco dining or grand evening receptions. Catering is expertly delivered by Moving Venue, ensuring exquisite presentation and impeccable service. Discover more at summerseasonmovingvenue.com.

The 3 Golden Rules for Choosing the Right Wedding Jewellery

With Married at First Sight dominating our screens from Sunday to Thursday, it's hard not to be inspired by the stunning bridal looks, sparkling jewellery, and dreamy hairstyles on display. Whether you're planning your own big day or simply daydreaming about it, finding the right accessories is key to creating a look that feels uniquely yours. From statement earrings to delicate hairpieces, the perfect finishing touches can elevate your ensemble from beautiful to unforgettable. Experts at Abbott Lyon have revealed how to choose wedding accessories that balance timeless elegance with your personal style.

How Solas Strings is transforming wedding music with modern, personalised string performances for ceremonies and receptions

The wedding industry is evolving toward more intimate, creative, and personal celebrations, and Solas Strings is at the forefront of this musical shift. Founded in 2020, the London-based ensemble of conservatoire-trained musicians performs globally across genres, offering bespoke string music for ceremonies, drinks receptions, and full-day celebrations. Director Alleya Weibel notes a rise in trending songs performed by string ensembles, from modern hits like "Ordinary" and "Adore U" to cinematic favourites by Einaudi, Hans Zimmer, and John Williams. Bridgerton-style string quartet covers and genres like afrobeats and R&B are also gaining popularity, adding flair, personality, and unforgettable moments to weddings. Discover more at solasstrings.com.

A luxurious hamper with an added personal touch

For anyone looking for an outstanding wedding gift, a luxurious hamper with an added personal touch is an ideal option. Top Hampers was born from the belief that gifts should mark an occasion in a way that is meaningful and memorable, to enable you to give gifts that are thoughtful and personalised, showing just how much you care. They have used their expertise to create a range of ready-to-go wedding hampers. These are perfect if you are short on time ahead of the wedding, as you can rely on Top Hampers for quality and the personal touch, while knowing the hampers can be delivered the next working day.

One in three Brits skip weddings over sky-high guest costs

Despite being one of the biggest factors in long-term relationship success, money is still a taboo topic for most couples. New research from HSBC UK reveals that three in four Brits (75%) consider financial compatibility essential. The nationwide survey of 2,000 adults explored how modern couples navigate finances - from dating apps to wedding vows - and the pressures, expectations and unspoken rules that come with spending in relationships. The impact of this silence is clear, with 58% of couples having argued about money.

Brockwell Hall hosts vibrant, sustainable disco wedding shoot led by Mercedes Gale Parr and 4YaParty Weddings & Events

This glorious shoot at Brockwell Hall bursts with colour, creativity, and sustainable inspiration. Mercedes Gale Parr, founder of 4YaParty Weddings & Events, led the day alongside a talented team, capturing a fun, modern, and eco-conscious celebration. With local South London suppliers, reusable glassware, animal-friendly hair and makeup products, and no single-use plastic, the shoot showcased how sustainability and style go hand in hand. Brockwell Hall's updated sustainable practices provided the perfect backdrop for the rustic, bright disco theme. Featuring a real couple whose personalities matched the vibrant colour palette, every detail came together seamlessly, offering couples plenty of inspiration for memorable, eco-friendly weddings. Images courtesy of Aurélie Four Photography.

Grand Hotel Bellevue in Paddington celebrates one year with stylish boutique design by Fabrizio Casiraghi

Grand Hotel Bellevue, a boutique gem in the heart of bustling Paddington, celebrates its first anniversary in London. The 60-room hotel is the first UK property from French group Lignée Hotels and showcases interior design by Paris-based architect Fabrizio Casiraghi. Spanning five floors of a listed Victorian townhouse overlooking Norfolk Square, the hotel's interiors blend quintessential British elegance with spirited modern eccentricity. Designed to feel like an intimate home, every detail merges classic British design codes with a contemporary flair, creating a welcoming yet stylish environment. Perfect for discerning travellers seeking boutique luxury in the city. Book your stay at grandhotelbellevuelondon.com.

County Wedding Events coming to Rackleys Chiltern Hills, Buckinghamshire!

If you're newlyweds-to-be embarking on your wedding planning journey, pop along to the County Wedding Events wedding show at Rackleys Chiltern Hills, Buckinghamshire for inspiration on Sunday 19th October, 2025! Sister company to County Wedding Magazines, the event brings couples in touch with local professionals who are on hand to help plan the wedding day. From photographers to cake makers, musicians to florists you're sure to tick a lot off of your to-do list by attending one of our County Wedding Events.

Chilston Park Wedding Fair hosted by County Wedding Events

If you're newlyweds-to-be embarking on your wedding planning journey, pop along to the County Wedding Events wedding show at Chilston Park, Kent, for inspiration on Sunday 26th October 2025 - 11pm - 3pm! Sister company to County Wedding Magazines, the event brings couples face-to-face with local professionals who are on hand to help plan the wedding day. From photographers to cake makers, musicians to florists you're sure to tick a lot off of your to-do list by attending one of our County Wedding Events. There is something about Chilston Park that gives the perfect wedding day a little extra sparkle. Hold your dream wedding ceremony in an elegant period room; this 17th-century manor house has plenty to explore. Surrounded by 77 acres of stunning Kent parkland, Chilston Park is tailor-made for memories.

Changing your name after the wedding

When the confetti settles and you're left with a shiny new name, the natural panic starts to set in "what documents do I need to change?" An aspect many don't consider until they have to, is the seemingly endless list of documents that now need updating. Below is a list of all the official bits you'll need to look at, now that you're embarking on newlywed bliss.

Four Seasons Hotel London at Park Lane unveils 18 newly renovated rooms and suites for summer 2025

Four Seasons Hotel London at Park Lane has unveiled 18 newly renovated and upgraded rooms and suites for Summer 2025, showcasing a sophisticated evolution of the iconic hotel. Created in collaboration with a London-based interior design studio, the new interiors reflect the hotel's signature blend of refined luxury, global elegance, and exceptional service. Elegant touches include sycamore wood panels, polished metal accents, Murano glass lighting, and bespoke furniture, complemented by a carefully curated palette of soft greens, rich autumnal tones, and warm golden highlights. With stunning views and thoughtful details, the redesigned rooms and suites offer an elevated guest experience. Book your stay at fourseasons.com.

FINDING YOUR SEASON

Whilst a summer wedding is traditionally considered the most popular time to tie the knot, there are many reasons why couples choose other seasons for their celebrations. For many, choosing a date comes down to a mix of budget, venue availability, work schedules and personal preferences. Whether you adore autumn's vibrant colours, the blossoms of early spring, or heartwarming winter celebrations, each season has unique charms to inspire your wedding plans. From selecting sun-kissed summer cakes and bespoke gifts, to arranging autumnal barn dances or finding local caterers with seasonal produce; this guide helps you host a wedding for all the seasons

Halloween Hen Party Ideas for 2025

Planning a hen party with a Halloween twist is the perfect way to add a cheeky, spooky edge to your celebrations. If your group is ready to ditch the usual tea and cake and dive into something a little more thrilling, there are plenty of unforgettable options to choose from. Leading hen party experts, The Foxy Hen, share their top tips for a spooktacular Halloween hen party, reminding us that the key is to mix fun, scares and creativity for a day or night that everyone will love..

The July London Victoria opens as a sustainable urban sanctuary with 114 stylish rooms and modern British dining

The July London Victoria has officially opened, quickly becoming a central go-to for overnight guests in London. Just a five-minute walk from Victoria Station, this 114-room apartment-hotel blends sustainability with comfort, offering bespoke rates for longer stays. The design references Art Deco architecture, drawing on Victoria's rich heritage with playful 1930s-inspired furniture and materials. Guests can enjoy The Idler, the hotel's restaurant led by Chef Jay Campbell, featuring modern British cuisine with a Mediterranean twist, along with creative cocktails and selected wines at the bar. Rooms start from £249 per night, with group and extended stay options available. Book now at thejuly.com/properties/london-victoria.