This is a very common assumption, and it makes sense why couples would think so, but the difference between the two can completely shape how your wedding day actually feels. Calm or chaotic. Supported or stretched. Present or pulled in ten different directions.

So, you’re asking, what is the difference? Let’s untangle it all.

Joanna Nicole Photography

What’s the difference between a venue coordinator and a private wedding coordinator?

A venue coordinator works for the venue. Their priority is the building, the staff, and the service being delivered within that space. Part of their role includes managing catering (if it’s in-house), overseeing the bar, coordinating the room set up, and making sure the venue runs according to its timings and policies. They know the venue inside out, and they are brilliant at what they do.

A private wedding coordinator works for you.

Our role is to look at the entire wedding day as a whole. We step in during the final weeks before the wedding, take over supplier communication, create a detailed timeline, and make sure every moving part connects smoothly. We are thinking about the full experience, from the morning preparations right through to the first dance.

The simplest way to say it is this. A venue coordinator manages the venue. A private coordinator manages the wedding.

Venue: AMP Studios

What is the role of a venue coordinator?

A venue coordinator ensures everything included within your venue package is delivered as agreed. By managing staff, catering schedules, bar service, room turns, and health and safety, while acting as the main point of contact for anything venue-related, and keeping operations running behind the scenes.

Most venue packages don’t include styling personal decor items brought in by the couple, external supplier management, or logistics that sit outside of the venue’s responsibilities, and this is often where expectations can quietly misalign. A venue coordinator’s role really can vary, and it’s always really important as a couple to ensure that you have a conversation with your venue, so you know what is and isn’t included.

Agnes Black

What does a private wedding coordinator actually do?

A private wedding coordinator fills in those gaps. We are hands-on, practical, and calm. We sign for deliveries, so you don’t have to worry about flowers or decor items arriving while you are getting ready. We check everything against your plan and make sure it is placed exactly where it should be.

Alongside setting out place cards, light candles, style personal decor, lay out children’s activities, and make sure everyone knows who needs to be where and when. If it matters to you, it matters to us. We cue and play ceremony music so there is no last-minute panic. We gather the wedding party at the right time. We keep an eye on timings so nothing feels rushed or forgotten. And yes, we will straighten chairs, fix uneven tables, quietly adjust a room so it feels just right, and even sometimes steam linens! These little things make a big difference to how polished and effortless everything feels.

Our job is to notice what needs doing before it becomes obvious and take care of it without pulling you away from the moment. We handle last-minute challenges calmly and quietly, so you never feel them.

Do I need a coordinator if I am planning a wedding at home?

This is where a private wedding coordinator becomes invaluable. If you are getting married on your own land, at a family home, in a marquee, or at a venue without an in-house coordinator, there is no one naturally overseeing the logistics. You don’t have a built-in team managing supplier arrivals, timings, power access, room transitions, or guest flow.

The same goes for if your ceremony is at a different location from your reception. Who is there early to meet the celebrant? Who is cueing the music? Who is coordinating guests, transport, and the move between venues? Who ensures drinks are ready the moment guests arrive?

Without a private coordinator, that responsibility often lands on a family member or a member of the wedding party, the people who should be present with you, not managing the logistics.

Venue: RSA House

A real wedding moment

Recently, I (Chloe) was a bridesmaid for one of my best friends. It was a stunning venue, and the couple assumed certain details would naturally be handled because there was a venue wedding coordinator in place. The day didn’t unfold the way the bride had planned.

The venue did not want to set out the seating place cards, or the candles and decor the bride had carefully chosen for the ceremony. They were also refusing to play the ceremony music, and expected someone from the bridal party to do it, which was only mentioned as we were getting ready to walk down the aisle.

No one put out the children’s games and activities, snacks for the drinks reception stayed in storage, the team hadn’t prepared the drinks in time for the end of the ceremony for the drinks reception, the cake knife went missing, and arrived late, which pushed back the cake cutting and then the first dance.

None of it was intentional. It simply was not considered a priority, or what was considered to be part of their role.

At the same time, the venue wedding coordinator was also managing the wider venue operations. Even though the only guests present were wedding guests, their attention and priorities were divided. Communication in the lead-up had also been patchy, the bride had sent the details, but the venue later said they hadn’t received them.

As a bridesmaid, I stepped in where I could, but I was there to support my friend, not to manage the timeline. That is the quiet difference having a private coordinator makes.

Venue: Froyle Park

Do coordinators handle guest issues?

Yes, but in different ways. A venue coordinator will usually deal with questions that relate directly to the venue, such as room service, room reservations, and maybe support with sourcing a taxi.

That’s where your private wedding coordinator becomes the go-to person for everything else. Timing questions, supplier arrivals, lost place cards, family queries. Guests know exactly who to speak to, and it is never you!

Jamie Dunn Photography

What is the difference between a wedding planner and a coordinator?

A wedding planner supports you from the very beginning. Helping with budgets, sourcing suppliers, making design decisions, and guiding you through the full planning journey.

A wedding coordinator will step in closer to the wedding, usually in the final weeks, and take over the execution on the day. We do not design or plan your wedding from scratch. We carry out your plans smoothly and exactly as you imagined.

Venue: Hampton Court House

Should I hire a wedding coordinator?

If you want to feel present, relaxed, and genuinely looked after on your wedding day, then it is absolutely worth it. You won’t be answering supplier calls while having your hair done; we are. Bridesmaids are not searching for missing items; we are. Instead, someone experienced is holding the timeline and guiding the day.

It allows everyone else to simply enjoy it with you!

Fineshades Studios

How much is a wedding coordinator?

Our pricing generally sits between £1,750 and £2,250 for on the day coordination. For many couples, it becomes an investment in their own peace of mind. It is about protecting your time, your energy, and your emotions that you have poured into planning your wedding.

Both venue coordinators and private wedding coordinators have important roles. The difference is who they are there for, a venue coordinator protects the venue. A private wedding coordinator protects your experience. And when both work together, your wedding day feels calm, supported, and beautifully held from beginning to end.

Venue: Kew Gardens

If you are planning your wedding and haven’t yet booked a coordinator, this is your sign to think about it. Your day deserves to feel calm, beautifully looked after, and quietly luxurious in all the ways that matter. From perfectly timed music cues to candlelight glowing just as the sun sets, from crisp linens to drinks ready exactly when guests step outside, those small details create the atmosphere everyone remembers. If you would love someone in your corner making sure everything flows effortlessly while you soak up every second, we would absolutely love to hear from you. Get in touch, and let’s make sure your wedding feels as seamless and special as it should.

Read more on why having a wedding co-ordinator is one of the best decisions you can make for your wedding on our blog “Why Hiring A Wedding Co-Ordinator Is The Best Investment”.

The post Venue Coordinator vs Private Wedding Coordinator appeared first on Wedding Planner and Event Manager, London and UK.

Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sánchez

Where else could we possibly begin but with what was arguably the most extravagant celebrity wedding of the 2025?! Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sánchez said their vows during a lavish, three-day celebration in Venice. Their ceremony took place on the breathtaking island of San Giorgio Maggiore, which the couple hired exclusively for the occasion. Naturally, the guest list was a who’s who of global powerhouses, with icons like Oprah Winfrey and Bill Gates reportedly in attendance.

Lauren Sánchez stole the show in a couture gown adorned with 180 silk chiffon–covered priest buttons, a dress fit for a royal wedding. Yet perhaps the most jaw-dropping detail of all was the wedding cake which was crafted by the legendary Parisian pastry mastermind Cédric Grolet. Rumour has it the cake might be the most expensive wedding cake ever created – we can only imagine!

Becca Bloom and David Pownall

TikTok sensation Rebecca Ma – known online as Becca Bloom – married software engineer David Pownall in a wedding that looked straight out of a modern fairytale. Set against the dreamy backdrop of Lake Como, their summer celebration gave undeniable Crazy Rich Asians energy, combining whimsical romance with jaw-dropping luxury.

The ceremony featured spectacular towering floral installations, a mirrored aisle reflecting the shimmering lake views and spectacular bursts of colourful smoke cannons that transformed the setting into something almost cinematic. Even the rain, because, of course, Lake Como loves a dramatic moment couldn’t dull the magic. If anything, it added to the atmosphere, making for photos so beautiful they’ll likely serve as huge wedding inspo for years to come.

Georgia Toffolo and James Watt

From lavish floral arrangements to supermarket daffodils, Georgia Toffolo’s wedding plans and comments caused quite the stir. If any celebrity wedding 2025 gave us a wedding with personality, it was this one! Georgia Toffolo’s big day sparked headlines, memes and admiration in equal measure. The reality star kept things spontaneous, reportedly telling guests to join only “if you can get here within 48 hours.” From there, the chaos and the charm began.

On her way to the ceremony, she allegedly grabbed supermarket daffodils to use as flowers, and her cake was rumoured to be a last-minute DIY creation. The photos the couple shared were wonderfully unconventional: the groom wearing fishing waders and Georgia posing in a cream, off-the-shoulder fleece while clutching freshly caught lobsters. The result? A celebration that felt refreshingly authentic, quirky and full of personality. But we absolutely adore this playful take on a very traditional day.

Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco

Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco said “I do” in a beautifully intimate California ceremony this September. The couple both wore custom Ralph Lauren ensembles, blending timeless elegance with effortless modern romance. Their guest list was, unsurprisingly full of music icons with Taylor Swift and Ed Sheeran reportedly giving speeches during their celebration. 

And if the speeches weren’t iconic enough, the ring bearer was none other than Martin Short. Yes, that Martin Short. The blend of classic style, star-studded storytelling, and celebrity sparkle made their wedding truly unforgettable.

Dani Dyer and Jarrod Bowen

In May, Dani Dyer and footballer Jarrod Bowen tied the knot at the stunning Langley Hotel in Buckinghamshire. Their celebration oozed elegance, intimacy and was a true family affair. One of the most touching details? Dani’s father, Danny Dyer, walking her proudly down the aisle. Their children served as flower girls and page boy and the photos are absolutely stunning! 

The dreamy white Hydrangeas and roses helped created a hugely romantic vibe and the dreamy outdoor scenery gave the event an almost Bridgerton-esque charm – we are obsessed! This absolutely picturesque wedding is one we will remember for a long time.

Kristen Stewart and Dylan Meyer

Kristen Stewart and screenwriter Dylan Meyer opted for something entirely different and entirely them. The couple married over Easter weekend in an ultra-private celebration that unfolded partly at their Los Angeles home and partly at their favourite Mexican restaurant. The vibe? Relaxed, heartfelt, and effortlessly cool.

The wedding looks were some of the trendiest of the year: a sheer silk mini dress paired with a chic tweed set. No veils, no bouquets, and no bridesmaids just authenticity, comfort, and style. It’s the kind of wedding that proves simplicity can be just as striking as extravagance. This wedding could not have suited them as a couple more! 

 
Demi Lovato and Jordan Lutes

From one California celebration to another! Demi Lovato and Jordan Lutes embraced full glamour, wearing not one but three spectacular outfits throughout their Santa Barbara wedding weekend. Demi stunned in two custom Vivienne Westwood gowns before changing into a tailored Lapointe suit that turned heads.

Their wedding included a rehearsal dinner, a romantic ceremony, and arguably the highlight being a special live performance by The Goo Goo Dolls. The couple’s first dance was choreographed and performed live by the band, making the moment unforgettable.

 
Kim Cattrall and Russell Thomas

The Sex and the City star married her longtime partner in an intimate ceremony at Chelsea Old Town Hall. Just 12 guests attended the beautifully private celebration. The bride stunned in a classic Dior suit perfectly suited to the venue, while her new husband looked dapper in a custom Richard James design.

Reflecting on their relationship, Sarah once said, “We’ve been together almost 10 years now, and we’ve had a blast.” The couple first met in 2016 when she appeared on BBC Radio 4 and they clearly never looked back. A heart-warming love story to end a year of fabulous weddings!

Sophie and Rhys

And we had to save a special mention for one of our very own! This year, Sophie from our team married her now-husband Rhys at the enchanting Lapstone Barn in the Cotswolds. Their countryside celebration was the epitome of fairytale romance, complete with breathtaking florals, twinkling fairy lights and subtle touches of Disney magic woven throughout.

After getting engaged on April Fools’ Day we are so happy to see the pair start their happily ever after! Surrounded by close family and friends this was a true love story come to life and we can’t wait to see more countryside fairytale weddings like this! 

Want to see our recap of Celebrity Engagements of 2025?

2025 gave us luxurious multi-day celebrations, intimate home-grown ceremonies, spontaneous countryside vows, and everything in between the 2025 celebrity weddings have been some to remember and we can’t wait to see what 2026 weddings have in store! 

Are you newly engaged or planning your big day? Let us help you bring your vision to life! Book a consultation to learn more about full planning services to on-the-day management. 

The post Celebrity Weddings of 2025! appeared first on Wedding Planner and Event Manager, London and UK.

Tom Holland & Zendaya

The year kicked off with Zendaya and Tom Holland, who announced their engagement back in January! Their announcement felt like one of those moments when the whole world collectively gasped and then melted a little. They’ve always had that calm, grounded, quietly obsessed-with-each-other energy, and seeing them take this next step just felt so right. No dramatic reveal, no big performance, just two people who adore each other choosing to make it official in the sweetest, most natural way. It set the tone for the entire year, and honestly, the glow these two give off is incredible. We cannot wait for this wedding.

Jake Paul & Jutta Leerdam

Jake proposed to Olympic medalist Jutta Leerdam, apparently spending £1 million on the ring! These two have been such a surprising but genuinely lovely pairing, and their news felt like one of those “oh wow, good for them” moments that instantly brightens your scroll. Jutta has brought out this softer, more grounded side of him, and you can really see how happy they make each other. The announcement itself wasn’t wild or dramatic, just confident and full of that loved-up energy they’ve shown from day one. It added a fun little spark to March and definitely kept the 2025 engagement streak feeling strong.

Melanie Hamrick & Mick Jagger

To keep us all on our toes, Melanie Hamrick finally confirmed her engagement to Mick Jagger. Not exactly new, but news that had been under wraps for years. Melanie told Paris Match that they’ve been engaged for two or three years, and honestly, we love how she said that while marriage may not be on the cards, they are perfectly happy as they are. A lovely reminder that love doesn’t have to follow a timeline!

Simu Liu & Allison Hsu

Simu Liu and Allison Hsu announced their engagement on the 11th of May, it was just such a gorgeous little moment. These two always give off the loveliest energy, fun, supportive, and a bit silly in the best way. So when the news dropped, it felt so natural, like of course they’re taking this next step. Nothing over the top, nothing staged within an inch of its life, just a really genuine “this is us, and we’re happy” kind of announcement. It added such a sweet vibe to May and slotted perfectly into this wave of feel-good, heart-melting celebrity love stories we’ve had this year.

Dua lipa & callum turner

In June, the fashion industry started to predict the wedding look for Dua Lipa, after announcing her engagement to Callum Turner on the 12th of June. From the early days, they had that look of two people who genuinely enjoy each other’s company, not just the events and the cameras. So when the engagement news dropped, it didn’t feel like a big celebrity “announcement” at all. It felt like watching two people who have found the right rhythm together choosing to keep building on something that already works. It’s sweet, grounded, and honestly one of the loveliest relationship progressions we’ve seen this year.

JASON SEGAL & Kayla Radomski

Jason Segel getting engaged honestly feels like one of those surprisingly lovely celebrity moments you don’t see coming. He proposed to Kayla Radomski back in the summer. They’ve only been together a couple of years, but there’s something about them that feels really settled, like they actually make each other’s lives calmer rather than louder. And yes, while we’ll always love him as the lovable, awkwardly charming Marshall from How I Met Your Mother, it’s honestly wonderful to see him finding that same kind of devotion in real life. It’s one of those celeb stories that makes you smile because it feels like an actual relationship, not a headline.

victoria pedretti & ethan delorenzo

Victoria Pedretti and Ethan DeLorenzo announced their engagement on the 21st of July, and honestly, it felt like such a quietly perfect moment. They’ve been together for a few years now, first sparking up when they met through mutual friends in the acting world, and fans have loved watching their relationship grow from low-key appearances and sweet social media hints into this next big step.

Tyrese Haliburton & Jade Jones

Tyrese Haliburton and Jade Jones have one of those really sweet, all-American love stories that just make you smile. They first met back at Iowa State University when he was a rising basketball star, and she was the cheerleader lighting up the sidelines, and they’ve been inseparable since 2019. So obviously, when Tyrese got down on one knee in July 2025, it had to be right in the middle of their old college arena, what a perfect full-circle moment. Jade has been by his side through every high, every game, every cross-country move, and seeing them take this next step somewhere so meaningful to both of them is honestly just lovely. It’s wholesome and romantic.

Cristiano Ronaldo & Georgina Rodríguez

Cristiano Ronaldo and Georgina Rodriguez sent fans around the world into a frenzy, back on August 11th. And can we talk about that ring for a second? Sparkly, dramatic, and totally Ronaldo-like, it basically has its own fan club. As for the wedding? Well, if their past events are anything to go by, we expect something ultra glamorous, whilst remaining intimate, maybe a stunning European villa, all-white florals, possibly a Ferrari, because let’s face it, you can’t do Ronaldo without a touch of speed and luxury. Georgina has always had impeccable taste, and Cristiano knows how to pull off the dramatic and romantic in equal measure, so whatever they choose will be elegant, star-studded, and absolutely jaw-dropping. Honestly, we can’t wait to see what they do.

Taylor Swift & Travis Kelce

And then of course, Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce on August 26th! This stopped everything, it had everyone pausing mid-scroll, celebrating and grinning like a Cheshire cat! After months of Swiftie speculation, seeing them take the next step felt so right. And can we talk about that engagement shoot? Perfectly Taylor and Travis, romantic, full of personality, and giving us all the heart eyes.

It’s moments like these that remind us why celebrity engagements never get old, each one bringing its own kind of magic.

Have a read of Hannah’s blog on her predictions for the wedding here: What Taylor Swift’s Engagement Means For The Wedding Industry

Liam hemsworth & Gabriella brooks

Liam Hemsworth and Gabriella Brooks announced their engagement on September 11th. They first got together after his split from Miley Cyrus, and ever since, they’ve kept things beautifully low-key, quietly building this calm, steady relationship that just works. Fans couldn’t help but smile at the idea that the Hunger Games love triangle has finally found its peaceful, real-life ending, and it seems like these two are more than ready for their next chapter. Rumour has it they’re planning an Australia wedding, relaxed, sun-soaked, and surrounded by the people who’ve watched their love story grow away from the spotlight. We can’t wait!

camila mendes & rudy mancuso

How adorable was Camila Mendes’ engagement to Rudy Mancuso? Honestly, it was one of those moments that just made everyone collectively melt. They’ve got this really natural, grounded chemistry, and seeing them take that next step felt so genuinely them. Their engagement announcement on October 25th had that cosy, soft energy that made you want to replay the video twice, and fans absolutely loved how romantic and personal it all felt. After meeting while filming Música and going from colleagues to this incredibly sweet partnership, it’s been so lovely watching them evolve.

charles leclerc & alexandra saint mluex

Formula One fans, brace yourselves! Charles Leclerc and Alexandra Saint Mleux announced their engagement on Instagram. They were first spotted together back in 2023. Fans saw them together during F1 weekends, and although they kept things low-key, it was clear pretty quickly that they were really well matched. Alexandra is an art history student, often seen travelling with him or cheering him on from the paddock without ever making it about herself. Their engagement in November 2025 felt lovely. Nothing overly flashy, no big performance, just a sweet, sincere moment between two people who are very obviously in their own little world together. It’s the kind of relationship that feels genuinely grounded, even with all the noise of the F1 lifestyle surrounding them.

Tom Rosenthal & Gabrielle Sky

Getting to the end of 2025, one of the latest additions to the list, Friday Night Dinner star Tom Rosenthal and Gabrielle Sky, shared their news on November 9th, with the cutest photobooth snaps. Gabrielle looked fab, showing off a gorgeous ring, and the photos are the kind of sweet, low-key moment that makes your heart melt. They also welcomed their first child a few months ago, so this feels like a perfect next chapter.

miley cyrus & Maxx morando

Ok, pause for a second, because the surprise of this month goes to Miley Cyrus. She and musician Maxx Morando have reportedly just gotten engaged after four years together. She stepped out onto the red carpet on December the 2nd, with a chunky, cushion‑cut diamond ring on her left hand. We love that this doesn’t feel like a dramatic headline grab, but all very grown-up.

All in all, 2025 is shaping up to be the year of the celebrity engagements. Big reveals, little reveals, rings caught in candid moments, carefully curated photos, and even long-kept private announcements.

Whether it’s a huge public announcement or a quiet, private moment, each celebrity engagement is a little reminder that love comes in all shapes and sizes. From celebrity to celebrity, from couple to couple, it is fun, exciting and just so beautiful to watch. And as this year keeps giving us more glittering rings and joyful smiles, we can’t wait to see who else will be stepping into this next chapter.

2025 is proving that love really is in the air, and celebrity engagements have been one of the most joyful things to watch unfold. It has been an absolute dream of a year. Will there be any more celebrity engagements squeezed in before the end of the year?

Did you get engaged in 2025? Still stuck with where to start on planning, book in for a free consultation with Hannah, here, to see how we can help with YOUR wedding plans.

The post Celebrity Engagements of 2025! appeared first on Wedding Planner and Event Manager, London and UK.

If you’re planning a 2026 wedding, here are the key shifts we’re seeing and how they’re influencing the way we design, plan and celebrate!

Red & Burgundy Colour Schemes

Burgundy is having a real moment in winter 2025! And we are seeing this trend of red tones moving through into 2026 weddings, but not always in the sense of a full red palette. It’s appearing as subtle, elegant accents that add a slight nod to this colour scheme. A red ribbon tied around a napkin, a pair of burgundy shoes peeking out beneath the dress, a red lip, a raspberry cocktail garnish, a single deep crimson rose within a neutral bouquet. We are seeing red pared with pale yellow, white, green tones, and we are also seeing full red and burgundy statement flower pieces, pared with black tie outfits – even in summer! Red makes for a bold statement – we love it!

Requests for blow-drys

Bridal beauty is continuing its journey away from structured, ‘done’ looks. In 2026, a trend we are seeing is brides wanting to look like themselves, just at their very possible best. Hair worn down, half-down, or softly waved creates an effortless, romantic feel. Makeup is natural, glowing and skin-focused. The overall look is “I just look like this,” rather than “I spent 3 hours on this.” The bouncy blow-dry is most definitely in right now, with the evolution of blow dry stylers and tools, and brides are also embracing it. It’s confident, real and timeless.

Multi-Day Celebrations

A single wedding day can go by so quickly, and couples are realising that the best moments often happen around the wedding day, whether it’s at the welcome party, the late-night kitchen chat, the slow breakfast the morning after, or during their post wedding afternoon drinks. So instead of one whirlwind day, 2026 is all about multi-day celebrations. Guests arrive the day before for a relaxed welcome dinner or cocktail evening, enjoy a pool party or brunch the day after, and really settle into the experience. It gives space, joy, connection, and importantly, time to actually be with the people you love. It saves those long conversations during the wedding day when you just want to dance, and saying goodbye at the end of the evening, when you ALSO just want to dance! Pulling a couple away from enjoying their band is no mean feat!

Want to know more about multi-day weddings? Find out here: Multi Day Weddings – Why One Day Isn’t Enough!

Pool Parties and Laid-Back Brunches

As we just mentioned, weekend-style weddings are most definitely a trend right now. I feel this has come from European weddings, but for couples who still want to stay in the UK but have this full weekend experience, like you get abroad, but without the stress of flights. 

One of the most popular things we are seeing is a post wedding day event. We’re seeing relaxed poolside gatherings, Aperol spritzes under the sun, linen outfits, and playlists that feel like summer holidays. The following morning, instead of rushing off, couples host casual brunches where everyone can debrief, laugh about the dance floor moments, and enjoy pastries and iced coffees in sunglasses and comfy clothes. Couples are going all out, with a different colour scheme, think bright pinks, lime greens and lemon yellows, with bold linen and centre pieces. It’s like their creative, bold side has taken over, but they want to keep their wedding day sophisticated and timeless! Food wise, it’s all about the brunch grazing style station, with bagel and smoked salmon, alongside a good bit of bacon and of course – mimosas and bloody Marys!

Menus That Reflect The Couple

Wedding food is no longer an afterthought or something chosen simply because it’s expected. Food is emotional, cultural and nostalgic, and couples want that reflected. They also want their guests to walk away from their wedding, never forgetting how good the food was! We’re seeing trends of shared feasting platters at weddings, beautiful family-style dishes inspired by their upbringings, and menus inspired by places couples have travelled to. Couples are wanting something ‘different’ from the standard wedding caterer. Think Asian fusion, mezze feasts, pasta served in big steaming bowls, raw seafood bars, fresh wood-fired pizzas and vibrant, colourful plates. Couples want their guests to think ‘that is so them!’ Have a favourite Turkish restaurant you eat at regularly? Our couples are wanting places like this, that mean something to them, to cater for their weddings.

Top tip: although you may have a fave restaurant who are willing to cater for your wedding, make sure they do have large event/wedding catering experience as it’sa very different kettle of fish to catering at a restaurant! Having a marquee? Again, make sure they have marquee experience, as this is an even more difficult request for caterers.

Speeches from Friends

Speeches are shifting too. More couples are inviting their closest friends to speak alongside family, or instead of family altogether. Friends often know the everyday relationship stories that make people laugh and cry. I mean, friends know all our embarrassing stories, right?! The result is speeches that feel warm and deeply personal, rather than formal or traditional. It’s storytelling about you as a couple at its most genuine.

Skipping the Wedding Party

Lots of couples are choosing to not have traditional wedding parties entirely, it’s definitely a trend we are seeing for 2026! There’s much less focus on matching dresses or who stands where, and instead a more relaxed approach where friends simply support you naturally. They might still get ready with you, be part of your morning, have a group photo with you, just without the labels and responsibilities. It helps couples to not have to worry about who is having special titles, and making others feel not as important. Adding titles can also cause stress and upset. We find wedding party fall outs to be a common theme!

Furniture Trends

Furniture is definitely becoming a wedding trend in 2026. 2026 is all about thoughtful details, rather than feeling generic. Couples want are requesting lounge areas that feel like a beautifully designed living room, rather than rental pieces lined up in rows. They want lounge furniture, that is not also great for elder guests to sit on for example, but also to look great in photos. We’re talking curved sofas, rattan areas and traditional chesterfields. 

Couples are also trying to move away from the standard offering of Chiavari chairs and matching their furniture to their décor. We are even getting requests where couples are moving away from the standard round or long tables. We are talking mix matching between the two options, or some are even talking curved, caterpillar style tables, which we don’t think are always logistically the best! You definitely seat less guests – but if you want this look, it’s an option!

2026 trends are all about creating spaces that invite guests to settle in, relax and enjoy the atmosphere rather than simply pass through.

Live Music and Entertainment

Live music is back, and in the most joyful way. Brass bands that parade guests from ceremony to reception, gospel choirs creating atmosphere during drinks, saxophonists weaving through the dance floor at midnight, bands that are performing not only in the evening, but also in the daytime. Couples in 2026 want music that is immersive and emotional. These also want to leave no gap in the day without entertainment. These performances fill the air in a way no playlist ever can. 

Entertainment is also a big thing. We aren’t just seeing your garden games! We are seeing couples hire in full mini golf courses, performers such as dancers, stilt walkers, drag acts and fortune tellers. Even additions to the day such as a backdrop where you ring a bell for a prosecco and a hand pops out with your glass of bubbly! It’s all about being interactive in 2026!

The Biggest Trend of All: Couples Who Know Themselves

The most important shift we’re seeing is couples making decisions based on who they are. They’re no longer trying to impress, perform or replicate something from Instagram. They’re choosing meaningful details and investing in experiences over aesthetics. Their weddings feel grounded, joyful, thoughtful and truly personal. And honestly, it’s the most beautiful thing to witness. These are most definitely my favourite weddings!

Which 2026 wedding trends are you leaning towards having? Still not sure how to fit them into your day? We would love to help with your planning! Get in touch here.

Want to have a look back at the top wedding trends of 2025? Here is one of our predictions from last year: Wedding colour of the year 2025

The post 2026 Wedding Trends appeared first on Wedding Planner and Event Manager, London and UK.

Kew Gardens 

Kew Gardens offers stunning glasshouse settings for weddings, from the Temperate House to the Nash Conservatory that can accommodate up to 200 guests. Kew delivers year-round botanical beauty – ideal for couples after a unique visitor attraction wedding in the UK plus your mode of transport can include a golf buggy to whip you around the grounds for photos – how cool! Notably, Fearne Cotton and Jesse Wood held their wedding reception at the Orangery. 

Warwick Castle

Warwick Castle is a fairytale setting offering licensed rooms for ceremonies from 20 to around 180 guests. Options range from medieval-style chambers to outdoor marquees on castle lawns. Packages often include access to towers for photography and evening entertainment. With nearly 1,000 years of ultimate history, it’s one of the UK’s most iconic visitor-attraction wedding venues. 

Bodleian Libraries 

This venue is a firm favourite of ours, offering incredible wedding settings like Convocation House and the Divinity School – both licensed for civil ceremonies! As one of Europe’s oldest libraries, and part of the University of Oxford, the Bodleian is incredibly prestigious, and equally just such a beautiful space for a wedding, holding up to 200 guests. Your reception will then be held in the stunning Divinity school, which has such a wow factor, after a drink’s reception fit for any king or queen in the Quadrangle. The venue is even featured in the Harry Potter! What’s more to love?! It is a hugely atmospheric and one of kind wedding venue! And don’t forget those iconic wedding photos outside the Wren Door and under the Bridge Of Sighs!

Ashmolean Museum 

Britain’s first public museum, the Ashmolean offers licensed galleries, a grand staircase and rooftop or atrium spaces for weddings – not to mention the stunning exterior of this venue! Ceremony capacities vary from 70 to 150 depending on the gallery. Surrounded by pieces of priceless art and collections dating all the way back to the 1600s, it’s perfect for a culturally rich, visually striking visitor-attraction wedding. 

Natural History Museum 

Arguably one of the most famous museums in the world the Natural History Museum offers 12 licensed spaces for weddings, with ceremony/dinner capacities ranging from 100 to over 200 guests. Home to Hintze Hall where you can get married underneath the iconic blue whale! What a wow factor, hey?! Along with gallery receptions with dramatic architecture and exhibits. Built in 1881, it’s a landmark visitor attraction wedding venue for couples wanting grandeur and unforgettable photo opportunities.

 
Kensington Palace

Kensington Palace provides elegant, licensed venues like the Orangery, State Apartments and Pavilion spaces for weddings of up to 100 guests (more for receptions). Managed by Historic Royal Palaces, it combines royal history, stunning gardens and period interiors. Celebrity events are common – Nicky Hilton’s wedding to James Rothschild was held here. With in-house catering and exclusive hire options, it’s a regal choice for a central London visitor attraction wedding.

Eden Project 

The Eden Project offers weddings in their famous biomes. Licensed for ceremonies and receptions, capacities range from 160 to 500 guests depending on space. Couples can marry in the Rainforest or Mediterranean Biome with stunning dramatic, tropical visuals. It’s one of Cornwall’s top visitor attraction wedding venues — perfect for nature lovers or couples after something unconventional. This was a bucket list wedding venue for us to work at and we can’t wait for the next wedding we plan here!

Hampton Court Palace

Hampton Court Palace offers historic wedding settings like the Great Hall, Garden Room and Little Banqueting House. Licensed for civil ceremonies, the palace can host up to 200 guests for ceremonies and 220 for receptions. The Great Hall, which is Henry VIII’s former feasting chamber (!), provides dramatic photo backdrops. In September 2014, Opera singer Katherine Jenkins and American film director Andrew tied the knot at Hampton Court Palace. With Tudor and Baroque architecture, it’s one of the great visitor attraction wedding venues in the UK.

V&A (Victoria & Albert Museum)

The V&A offers large licensed spaces such as the Raphael Court (ceremonies up to 400), the Dome and John Madejski Garden. Receptions can host hundreds, with stylish, art-filled settings. With the focus on design, the V&A is a high-impact visitor-attraction wedding venue for couples who value creativity, heritage and dramatic architecture. You don’t need to do much to this venue to make it look incredible for your day!

Tower Bridge 

Tower Bridge, arguably one of the most well known attractions in London, offers licensed ceremony spaces in the North Tower Lounge (35–60 guests) and dramatic receptions on the High-Level Walkways (up to 120+ guests). With panoramic, iconic views of the Thames and exclusive evening access, it one of the most picturesque spots in London! For a visitor attraction wedding UK experience with unmistakable London flair, Tower Bridge is a perfect setting for a London wedding!

 
Cliveden House 

Cliveden is a luxurious 5 star luxury National Trust estate. Ceremonies and dinners can accommodate around 120 guests, with evening celebrations for up to 180. Known for its glamorous history (e.g. Profumo affair!!), Cliveden blends stately home charm with sweeping parkland. From the spa facilities to the majestic woods, it is known as one of the grandest visitor-attraction wedding venues in the UK.

Blickling Hall 

Blickling Hall in Norfolk offers Jacobean grandeur with multiple indoor and outdoor wedding options. Ceremony capacities range from 60 upwards depending on room choice or marquee use. Surrounded by formal gardens and historic architecture, it’s a romantic National Trust visitor-attraction wedding venue. This venue is ideal for couples who want a beautiful, heritage-rich setting while contributing to the property’s upkeep.

Highclere Castle 

If you’ve ever dreamed of a wedding with a touch of royal charm, Highclere Castle, best known as the iconic setting of Downton Abbey, offers an unforgettable backdrop. You can say “I do” in the stunning Saloon or one of the elegant state rooms, with space for everything from intimate gatherings to grand celebrations. Whether you’re a fan of the series or just love the idea of spending the day like a member of the Crawley family, Highclere brings timeless elegance and a bit of star quality to your special day.

Ardross Castle 

Ardross Castle in the Scottish Highlands, now famous as The Traitors filming location, is available for exclusive-use weddings. With dramatic interiors, estate grounds and marquee options, it’s surged in popularity. The Great Hall within the castle holds up to 130 guests for a wedding breakfast. The castle comes as is, and is hired on a dry hire basis, so you can bring your own caterer and all of your own suppliers – massive pro! You even get accommodation for up to 41 of your guests to pretend they are traitors! TV fame has made this a trending visitor-attraction wedding venue, ideal for fans of the show or those seeking a hidden gem in the Highlands. Availability is limited due to high demand, we are seeing couples book at least 2-3 years ahead for weddings at this venue!

Gretna Green 

Gretna Green remains the UK’s most famous elopement destination, offering iconic “anvil weddings” at the Famous Blacksmiths’ Shop and venues like Gretna Hall. From small, intimate ceremonies to larger celebrations, their wedding packages let you create a day that’s completely unique to your love story. You’ll also find delicious, fully bespoke wedding breakfasts to make the occasion even more special for up to 150 guests in the Famous Blacksmiths shop. The runaway wedding history and unique ceremony style make it popular with couples after a romantic and memorable visitor attraction wedding in Scotland – with a twist of tradition.

There are so many venues across the UK that your guests will think, wow, didn’t even know I could get marred there! Perhaps it’s a favourite spot that you visited back on a first date, or maybe even the location of your proposal! Looking for help planning your wedding at a UK visitor attraction? You can get in touch here.

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Many couples across the UK are now wondering what British wedding traditions they should include in their celebrations, what they are, and, quite frankly, why we even do them?! While today’s weddings are often more personal and creative than ever, many couples still choose to weave in nods to British heritage, and many also just feel like it wouldn’t be a wedding without them!

Whether you’re a lover of all things classic or just curious about the origins of that silver sixpence in your shoe, this blog explores 13 (unlucky?!) of the best-known British wedding traditions, and how you might choose to honour them in a way that feels truly you.

1. Something Old, Something New…

“Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue — and a silver sixpence in your shoe.” Perhaps the most iconic British wedding tradition of all, this rhyme dates back to the Victorian era and is all about bringing good luck to the bride.

• Something old represents continuity and the connection to your past, which often comes in the form of a family heirloom, a piece of lace from your mum’s dress perhaps, or vintage jewellery.
• Something new stands for optimism and the future, this could be your dress, veil or even your new initials!
• Something borrowed is usually from a happily married friend or relative, symbolising the passing on of good fortune.
• Something blue represents fidelity, purity, and love. Think a blue ribbon stitched inside your dress, a sapphire ring, or even blue shoes.
• A silver sixpence in your shoe (the lesser-known fifth line) was traditionally placed in the bride’s left shoe to bring prosperity and wealth. Some wedding shoes already have this built in!

Many modern couples, not just brides, are finding creative, personal ways to make this tradition their own, often incorporating heritage pieces with a modern twist. Some just completely forget to even include these things, and if it doesn’t mean much to you, then we say don’t worry!

2. Not Seeing Each Other Before the Ceremony

The tradition of the couple not seeing each other before the ceremony has its roots in arranged marriages, where it was considered bad luck for the groom to see the bride before the vows were made — just in case one of them got cold feet!

Today, many couples still embrace this custom as a way of preserving the anticipation and emotion of that first look at the aisle. But there’s also a growing trend towards first look photos which gives you a private moment before the ceremony begins, often captured beautifully and naturally by the photographer. This works well for couples who are really nervous about walking down the aisle and being the centre of attention. Through conversations with couples recently, I’ve had a few say they wish they had actually stayed with their other half the night before as they would have slept better! I personally stayed with my other half for our elopement before we legally wed, and it was so nice to have a nice chilled breakfast together in the morning before getting ready.

3. Confetti and the Ceremony Exit

Throwing confetti as the couple leaves the ceremony is a really nice moment to capture, plus it’s a deeply symbolic one! Originally, guests would throw rice, grain, or petals to wish fertility and prosperity. The word “confetti” actually comes from the Italian tradition of throwing sugared almonds at parades and celebrations.

In Britain, paper confetti became popular in the 19th century, and today, we see everything from dried rose petals and lavender to biodegradable paper circles, and even bubbles instead of confetti! We absolutely love the use of paper and it’s floats so nicely! Dried petals can be a nightmare to dig out of your dress and hair… 

Top tip: Check your venue’s policy on confetti – many ask for biodegradable only, or may have designated areas where it can be used.

4. Wearing a Veil

Historically, the bridal veil symbolised modesty and purity, and in some cases, was used to ward off evil spirits. In arranged marriages, it also served a practical purpose – obscuring the bride’s face until the ceremony was complete!

Today, veils are entirely optional and often chosen as a style statement rather than a symbol. From cathedral-length showstoppers to simple tulle styles or even whimsical birdcage veils, they’re a beautiful way to add a touch of tradition while expressing personal style. 

What is a the difference between a blusher veil and a drop veil?

A blush veil has the piece which can be moved to cover the face, and a drop veil is just for the back of the head, with no face covering. It’s quite rare now that people cover their faces with a veil.

Brides tend to keep their veil on during the ceremony and drinks reception, and remove it when seated for dinner, as you may find it annoying! 

5. Walking Down the Aisle with Your Father

Traditionally, the bride is escorted down the aisle by her father and “given away” to the groom. A symbolic handover that stems from the time when women were seen as property to be passed between families.

It is still a very popular tradition for the bride to walk with her dad, but we have seen this altered on many occasions, such as walking down the aisle with both parents, a sibling, a close friend, or walking in together. Some even choose to walk in solo (like I did!). 

I think it all comes down to your beliefs, and what you feel comfortable in doing. Every family has different relationships. My advice would be to stick with what you want to do.

6. Wedding Breakfast

The term “wedding breakfast” often confuses guests, especially international ones! But the phrase doesn’t refer to the time of day; it simply means the couple’s first meal together after being married, so essentially, the wedding ‘dinner’!

Rooted in tradition, it symbolises breaking the fast after the wedding ceremony, particularly in religious services where the couple may have fasted beforehand. Today, the wedding breakfast is your reception meal — whether it’s a formal three-course menu, a relaxed sharing feast, or an alfresco BBQ, but we still seem to have adopted this title for the part of the day in the UK!

7. The Wedding Cake

British weddings have long featured a tiered cake, dating back to medieval times when guests would stack small buns on top of one another, and the couple would try to kiss over the pile without knocking it down (a sign of future prosperity! There seems to be a lot about properity and fertility in British traditions!).

The modern version, which was a multi-tiered fruitcake covered in white icing, became popular in the Victorian era. The tiers were said to represent wealth and status, with the top tier traditionally saved for the christening of the couple’s first child. The bigger the cake, the wealthier you were.

While few couples opt for fruitcake today, many couples do still opt for a wedding cake as part of their day, along with a cake cutting. We generally advise to display the cake on the dancefloor, cut it just before the first dance, and your caterer will whip it away for you to go straight into your first dance – saves you gathering all the guests twice! We generally do a little countdown into you doing the cut, then ask you to share your first slice of cake together which always makes for a fun photo! 

8. Speeches and Toasts

British wedding speeches are a tradition in themselves. Full of humour, heartfelt sentiment, and occasionally, a few nerves and dodgy stories! The traditional order is:

1. Father of the bride
2. Groom
3. Best man

But many couples now choose a more inclusive line-up (not just all men!) with speeches from the bride, maid of honour, or even a joint thank-you speech from the couple. It’s a lovely way to personalise the day and include more voices.

We would advise to still try and keep to just 3 or 4 speeches, and ask your speakers to have a time cap of 5 minutes. It’s plenty of time for a speech, as you really don’t want to go on too long!

9. First Dance

The first dance as a married couple is a romantic finale to the formal part of the day, marking the start of the partaaaay! Traditionally, the couple take to the floor alone, before being joined by parents, wedding party, and guests.

Whether it’s a carefully choreographed number or a relaxed sway to your favourite song, it’s a chance to pause, connect, and soak in the magic of the moment, and also makes for some lovely photos!

10. The Bouquet Toss

One of the most playful wedding traditions, the bouquet toss, dates back to Victorian times. Back then, it was considered lucky to touch the bride, so guests would sometimes rush at her to snag a piece of her dress or flowers for good fortune. To escape the crowd, especially for ladies, when strangers would try and get in on this tradition, brides began tossing their bouquets into the air as a distraction, and the tradition stuck! Today, it’s quite rare we see this. Many bride’s want to keep their bouquet or have it preserved, but it can be a fun moment, especially for that superstitious friend waiting to get engaged, often with lots of laughter and a little friendly competition!

11. Carrying the Bride Over the Threshold

This tradition is steeped in superstition and symbolism. In Roman times, it was believed that evil spirits lurked at the threshold of a new home and could enter through the soles of the bride’s feet. Carrying her over the threshold was a way to protect her and begin married life with good fortune. Today, it’s more of a romantic gesture!

12. The White Wedding Dress

Thanks to Queen Victoria, white wedding dresses became the ultimate symbol of bridal fashion. When she married Prince Albert in 1840 wearing a white gown (a bold move at the time), she set a trend that still dominates today. While white is often associated with purity, it originally represented wealth and status, as white fabric was expensive and difficult to maintain, so only the rich wore white. These days, it’s simply the classic bridal look—but modern couples are increasingly choosing soft pastels, bold colours, or even black for a personalised twist.

13. Exchanging Rings

This ancient tradition goes back thousands of years to the Egyptians, who believed a circular band symbolised eternity. The idea of placing it on the fourth finger of the left hand, now known as the “ring finger”, came from the belief that a vein (the vena amoris) ran directly from that finger to the heart. Today, wedding rings remain one of the most recognisable and meaningful symbols of being married, and is one that we see most from modern couples.

Honouring Tradition, Your Way

British wedding traditions offer a sense of charm, history, and ritual that many couples treasure, but the beauty of modern weddings lies in your freedom to pick and choose. Whether you embrace every tradition or just one or two that feel meaningful, it’s all about creating a day that reflects who you are as a couple, and what resonates most with you. If you aren’t going to enjoy a confetti shot, or a first dance, then don’t do them!

And if you ever need help weaving tradition into a modern wedding with elegance and intention, we’re always here to guide you! You can get in touch here.

Interested in seeing what we do? Then head over and follow us on Instagram, where we keep you in the loop of what’s happening this wedding season.

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Let’s look at what’s trending in 2025 and get real honest: do we even need a cake?

Let’s slice into it (sorry, had to).

Why Do We Have Wedding Cakes Anyway?

Wedding cakes have been a thing for a very long time. Back to Ancient Rome, instead of cutting a cake, they’d break a loaf of barley bread over the bride’s head for luck. Romantic, right? Nothing says true love like a carb-based concussion.

Then in Medieval times, people would stack pastries into a tower, very me, and if the couple could kiss over it without knocking it down, it was said to bring good fortune! A high-stakes pastry Jenga, you could say! 

Fast forward to royalty and the upper classes, who went all in on tiered, sugar-loaded, flamboyant cakes displaying a sign of wealth and fortune. And now? We still love a good tradition, and cake is definitely one of them! Whether it’s fancy,  low key or gluten-free, you’re pretty much guaranteed cake at a wedding.

Why Cakes Are Still a Big Deal?

There’s just something about a wedding cake that just makes it feel official. Even if you’re not big on sweets, the act of cutting the cake together is kind of iconic. It’s a part of the day, and it’s symbolic of your first “task” as a married couple, and let’s be honest, it’s the tastiest one. .

Historically, cakes were linked to fertility and prosperity. The white icing was once a status symbol because refined sugar was expensive. Today it’s more about celebration, tradition, and that one part of the night where everyone gathers around, phones out, waiting for you to stab a cake with a giant knife. Beautiful.

Wedding Cake Trends We’re Loving In  2025

This year is full of beautiful cake inspiration, and we are loving what we are seeing.

Pressed flowers and botanical designs are still in, made with edible petals pressed into buttercream to create a soft, romantic garden vibe.. 

Big (and we mean big), bold single tier cakes, topped with fresh fruit, are making a serious statement, and they look especially dramatic when cut with a sword.. 

Mini, one per guest cakes these are really cute and so easy to serve, especially if using your cake as dessert (more on that in a bit). 

Flavour-wise, we’re seeing lots of couples branching out. Pistachio and rose, chai spice, lemon and lavender are all having a moment. Of course, red velvet and chocolate are still firm favourites, but it’s great to see people getting more adventurous.

Sustainability is also key. Couples are opting for local ingredients, minimal waste, and choosing to work with bakeries that take an eco-friendly approach.

And best of all, we’re seeing a rise in inclusive baking. That means cakes without eggs, butter or gluten, that still taste amazing and look absolutely stunning. Guests with dietary requirements don’t have to miss out, and nothing has to be hidden away “out the back” anymore.

But What If You Don’t Want a Big Cake?

Honestly, you’re not alone. More and more couples are skipping the traditional tiered cake and choosing something that feels more personal to them.

Doughnuts are having a serious moment. Whether displayed on a wall or stacked in towers, they’re fun, tasty, and super easy to serve.

Cupcakes continue to be a classic choice. They’re cute, completely customisable with flavours and decorations, and can be styled to look just as striking as a traditional cake.

Macarons are another favourite. A pyramid of perfectly coloured macarons is both beautiful and delicious—and they photograph like a dream.

One option we can’t get enough of is the dessert grazing table. Think macarons, mini cakes, cake pops, chocolate covered pretzels and all the sweet treats you can imagine. It’s a real showstopper and gives your guests plenty of variety.

Not a fan of sweets at all? That’s fine too. Enter the pork pie tower. It’s hearty, savoury, and especially brilliant for the evening food. Add some chutneys and cheese on the side and you’ve got a winning combo.

Whatever you go for, the idea is the same: something sweet (or savoury!) that reflects your vibe.

Making the Cake the Main Dessert

A really smart trend we’re seeing is using the wedding cake as the main dessert. It makes so much sense, both logistically and financially.

By serving the cake as dessert, you can cut it at the start of the meal while all your guests are seated and paying attention. It also means you can skip the cost of a separate dessert course altogether.

Guests are much more likely to eat the cake when it’s served as part of the meal, and you can elevate it with beautiful plating. Add some berries, a drizzle of coulis or a fancy sweet sauce, and you’ve got something that feels special.

Plus, it puts the cake in the spotlight it deserves, not just wheeled out during the awkward post-speech lull.

Or… Maybe No Cake At All?

Here’s the truth. You absolutely do not need to have a cake. If it doesn’t feel like your thing, skip it. No big deal

Choosing to eliminate the cake gives you room in the budget for other things, maybe a few extra cocktails, live music, or something fabulous for the honeymoon. It also removes the pressure of making yet another decision in the planning process.

And if you still want to offer guests a treat, just do it your way. A surprise round of espresso martinis during dancing? A late-night s’mores bar? All brilliant options.

Final Thoughts (or the Last Bite)

Wedding cakes have come a long way since Roman bread-smashing and medieval pastry towers. Whether you go classic tiered, totally alternative, or skip it altogether, your wedding day should reflect you. 

Sweet, simple, full of flavour. Just like love, really. So, go ahead. Eat cake, or cheese, or doughnuts. Or nothing at all. And enjoy every second of it.

Still deciding what’s right for you? Book a consultation with us to see how a wedding planner can help take the stress out of your big day. You can also read more on our ultimate guide to wedding planning blog for some extra tips! 

Keep up to date with Hannah and the team on Instagram. Follow for behind the scenes peeks into planning, advice and those all important tips! We’d love to have you with us.

The post Let’s Talk Wedding Cakes appeared first on Wedding Planner and Event Manager, London and UK.

Anant & Radhika

Let’s start with the sensational Ambani wedding! It has been quoted as the “wedding of the year” and you can guarantee we enjoyed every element. 

When it comes to grandeur, the Ambanis never disappoint! Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant’s wedding was a real experience, blending tradition and extravagance. Held over several days at the Ambani family’s Mumbai residence, Antilia, the celebrations featured breathtaking floral installations, live performances, and rituals steeped in Indian culture.

Radhika looked radiant in a red Abu Jani Sandeep Khosla lehenga, adorned with intricate embroidery and jewels, while Anant wore a cream sherwani embellished with gold. Highlights? A stunning Baraat procession, fireworks, live dhol players,  topped with a star-studded guest list, and a reception dinner featuring an exclusive menu by Michelin-starred chefs.

Vicky & Ercan 

My Big Fat Geordie wedding indeed! Vicky Pattison and Ercan Ramadan tied the knot in a very chic ceremony at  London’s Marylebone town hall known for its classic intimate setting for the legal part of their marriage before flying to the Amalfi Coast for their main ceremony at Castello Monaci, nothing short of a Mediterranean dream! Vicky went for more than one dress for her wedding day. Suzanne Neville and The Wedding Club worked to ensure she looked stunning in every single part of the celebration!

Millie & Jake

Another Bride in gorgeous dresses in Italy, Millie Bobby Brown married Jake Bongiovi at the stunning Villa Cetinale. Millie wore four dresses across the occasion, for the wedding ceremony, she wore a custom Galia Lahav gown, working with designers to create her customisations. Later changing into a vintage-style Valentino dress for their couples photos, an Oscar de la Renta short dress for the reception and another Oscar de la Renta full gown to cut the cake! Millie’s four-dress approach not only showed her love for fashion but also ensured each element of the day had it’s own unique vibe.  

The flowers, oh wow! A huge white flower arch was absolutely stunning and they also had one of our favourite bands, Sensation Band, performing for their guests!

Rebel & Ramona

Rebel Wilson and Ramona Agruma married on the Italian island of Sardinia, a truly romantic spot where they had holidayed before. They organised the wedding in 3 months and an important part of the wedding for Rebel was obviously the music, flying in a 20-piece band led and produced by Alessandro De Angelis

Rebel and Ramona stunned in a duet of Pronovias dresses in a Mikado fabric, classic elegance, styled individually. Rebels corseted princess gown looked stunning next to Ramona’s A-line silhouette, matching perfectly. 

Josh & Jordan

“In a *light* blizzard” Josh Radnor and Dr Jordan Jacobs married at the Cedar Lakes Estate in Hudson Valley, in upstate New York, in a heartwarming moment, outdoors, during a major snowstorm! 

Guests and suppliers had to stay the night as they were unable to travel due to the snow and ice! 

Guests received welcome bags on arrival, including incense sticks, an incense dish, CBD tincture and an ‘intention kit’ with paper a pen and a note reading “‘We find that setting an intention can be a helpful way to drop in and calibrate your internal compass to true north”

Lana Del Ray & Jeremy

The Lovely Lana announced her romance with Jeremy Dufrene, jut one month before they wed in an intimate ‘relaxed, family-focused’ ceremony by the water in Louisiana, where Jeremy operates his popular swamp boat tours and where they first met. 

We haven’t seen any official photos other than those released here, and no information about the dress, sad face!

Zoe & Danny 

Influencer and sister to Molly-Mae, Zoe Hague married her military fiance Danny Rae at the gorgeous Inn on the Lake at Ullswater, in the Lake District National Park. They had a beautiful outdoor ceremony, with the British weather on their side, with the clouds parting and blue skies and majestic mountains – Hannah’s idea of a perfect backdrop! 

The night before the wedding, the wedding party enjoyed a scenic lake cruise aboard the Ullswater steamer to start the celebrations. For the wedding itself, Zoe wore a fitted strapless dress from The White Closet, florals from the talented Amelia Rose Florals featured a white floral arch, flower meadows for the ceremony and stunning hand bouquets for the bridal party. Following the ever-popular trend of an outfit change, Zoe’s second dress was a beautiful shorter-style ivory dress and Danny changed into a different suit, after a shower first!

Adele & Rich

Adele has been keeping us on our toes, she has been dropping cryptic hints about her wedding to Rich Paul. If you try to find out information about Adele’s wedding online, you won’t find it! She keeps teasing us all, referring to Rich as her husband and responding to Alan Carr’s asking his audience if anyone has got married recently with an “I did” but she did confirm in August they are not married, yet! So 2025, Adele,  we want to see your wedding!

Hannah & Martyn

Okay, not necessarily celebrity weddings, but one I couldn’t miss out on! Our Hannah Rose married her very own Mr Right, Martyn. Hannah and Martyn met through a friend on a night out, and as she says “The rest is history”! 

The wedding celebrations started with the legal bit taking place in the registry office, afterwards, Hannah swapped her pink wedding shoes for her climbing boots, and they along with 2 photographers, a videographer and 2 friends climbed Snowdon to read their vows to one another! 

Hannah and Martyn continued to celebrate their wedding with Friends and Family a couple of weeks later at home in Northamptonshire, with an outdoor ceremony, in true British style the rain only started 1 minute before the end of the ceremony! They celebrated the rest of the day with a gorgeous BBQ station from Portfolio Events and amazing live music throughout their drinks reception and the Josie Soden band for the reception. You can read more about Hannah’s wedding planning in her wedding blog or listen on the “Let’s Get You Wed” Podcast.

From grand celebrations to intimate ceremonies, celebrity weddings in 2024 have been inspiring and we are excited for 2025! 

Are you newly engaged or planning your big day? Let us help you make it just as magical as you imagine. Book a consultation to learn more about how we can bring your vision to life, from full planning services to on-the-day management. 

The post Celebrity Weddings of 2024! appeared first on Wedding Planner and Event Manager, London and UK.

The cost to hire a UK wedding planner

Now first up, it’s a bit like much of the wedding industry – how long is a piece of string! What we would say is that planners tend to charge 10-15% of your estimated wedding budget. It is so important to have a wedding budget and you can download our PDF guide on how to set a budget here. Once you have an idea of what you want to spend overall, you can then start approaching wedding planners with a budget and your ideas and they will then create a quote from there, taking into consideration the time they will need to plan, location, the size of the team they will need on the day and the length of the wedding.

But not every planner works in this way. For us, we work on a set fee basis as opposed to a percentage of your budget. Our fee is based on your style of wedding, the size of the guest list and what kind of wedding you would like. For example, if you wanted a hotel wedding which has inhouse caterers and accommodation on site, this would be a lower cost than if you wanted a marquee in a field as the logistics are far more time consuming. We generally need a bigger team for a marquee wedding and can be onsite for up to 5 days for the set up etc, so planning fees would be higher to accommodate for this. You can see a rough guide of what we charge here which can give you an indication of the cost to hire a wedding planner.

What services do UK weddings planners offer?

The services planners generally offer are full planning, where we plan your UK wedding from the very beginning, right up until the day, covering every part of the planning process to give you the day you want. Many, including myself, offer a partial planning service where you have already started booking the key things such as venue, catering, photography, and now need somebody to step in and take over. It could even be that all of your suppliers are booked but you need someone for the communication with the suppliers and the logistical planning, as that can be a lot!

There are other services some planners also offer, such as styling and décor planning, and we also offer an on the day management/co-ordination service which is perfect for you if you want to go ahead and plan your own day, but want to relax on the day and know that it’s handed over to someone else to handle the logistics in the background and to put any fires which inevitably crop up!

How much does it cost to hire a day of wedding coordinator?

Our 12 hour wedding co-ordination services are a set fee of £1500. There other extras you an add, such as final month planning, day prior set up, post wedding set down and an extension to have an event manager until the very end of the night, to manage the set down if it needs to be done on the same day, and also to manage any taxis/buses etc. But this is entirely up to you!

Every planner charges differently for this service but I would say £1000 – £2000 is the general rule of thumb. Some planners charge more and take over the planning 4-6 weeks prior to the day. I decided not to factor this into the base cost as some couples don’t feel like they need this service and would rather just have someone there on the day. With a background in event management, I have confidence to do this whereas I understand some planners would rather been more involved with supplier communication etc.

You can find out more about what our base co-ordination service includes here. This service is essential if you have a dry hire venue where you don’t have a venue co-ordinator onsite, or if you are getting married on your own land, or land you have hired.

How will I know if I need a wedding planner?

There are many reasons people hire a wedding planner, and as already discussed, in different capacities. Many of our couples (and parent!) afterwards are thrilled that they decided to hire a wedding planner, regardless of the cost to do so. For full planning and partial planning, most couples come to us because they have busy lives, careers etc so the cost of a wedding planner is the best many they spend in their budget! A wedding planner can’t take away all of the stress, such as family situations, but we can take away the stress of the supplier searching, the consistent emails, and the worries of whether the suppliers they are booking are legit and an appropriate cost.

If you’re not able to take the time out to focus on your wedding plans, if you are already feeling busy in your lives, or if you just don’t feel like you have the experience to know what to book, hiring a wedding planner will be essential for you and a great investment.

I truly believe everyone needs a wedding planner in the corner in some aspect, even if you just hire someone to manage your day, but you then have that relief in the back of your mind that you have a professional involved in some aspect that you can go to when you need to, even just to book a one off session to unload your stresses.

Many couples also book a planner if they aren’t in the same country, for example if you live in America, but would like a wedding in the UK or England, you will find a wedding planner is essential for you.

What is the disadvantage of a wedding planner?

I mean, after reading this, are there any? I think finding the right planner for you is essential. I don’t believe a wedding planner takes any control for you, you are ultimately in control, you make the final decisions, but this could depend on the planner you hire. You also need to ensure the planner you hire has experience. There have been many wedding planners popping up who may just think it is a nice job to do, but experience is essential.

There is a cost attached to a hire a wedding planner. Always check if your planner works on commission from their suppliers. This is something we do not do, as we want to hire the suppliers who are right for you, and now ones that we will earn an incentive from. A planner who works on commission may charge you less, but in the long run, will cost you more as your suppliers will then add that commission on top of your price. A wedding planner can most certainly save you money as we work with a budget planner, to make sure we are sticking to the overall budget you wanted to commit to, whereas when planning on your own, you are more likely to go over on the cost you wanted to spend.

Are you convinced that a wedding planner is the right route for you? Get in touch here and let’s get a consultation booked so we can chat further about your plans and how we can help you!

The post How Much Does It Cost To Hire A Wedding Planner In The UK? appeared first on Wedding Planner and Event Manager, London and UK.

Have an initial conversation together

Before booking venue viewings or visiting wedding fayres, have an initial conversation about your day together. So many couples I work with have a very different idea when they are first thinking about how to plan a wedding and how they would like their wedding to be. Once you know the style you want, it is so much easier to stay focused on looking for inspiration, ideas, venues and suppliers for the wedding you both want. There is SO much wedding inspiration out there, you don’t want to be like a magpie with shiny things, stick to the style you have agreed on. For instance, if you have chosen an informal, field style wedding, stick to looking at what will match this theme, not beautiful stiletto heels or venues with no outside space.

Choosing your bridal party wisely

When it comes to choosing your bridesmaids, maid of honour, best man, groomsmen etc (which is an important part of how to plan a wedding and one people get over excited about!) choose the people who you want to be by your side during your wedding day. Don’t feel pressured to choose certain people because you have been their bridesmaids or because they are your sister, or your partners sister.  I hear so often that they bridal party actual cause so much stress for the couple as they don’t want to wear the bridesmaids dress that has been chosen or they don’t want to plan the honeymoon – choose people who you know will support you, whatever your decision and will help relieve your stress, not cause you more!

Parents

It is an exciting time for all of your family to know that there is an upcoming wedding on the horizon, especially for your parents, and they may also be thinking about how to plan the wedding! Some couples love that their parents want to get involved with their planning and give their ideas and opinions, and others…don’t! My top advice if a parent wants to get involved with planning is to give them a specific job, whether it is arranging the favours, booking dress appointments or helping with the table plan, let them be involved, but give them something to focus on. Also, make sure they understand that it is your day and you want them to be involved but also to respect your wishes.

Terms and conditions

It can be oh so exciting when you are sitting at the venue of your dreams, speaking all about colours and flowers, the pretty things, then a copy of terms and conditions are put in front of you to be signed. One of the most important things when working out how to plan a wedding is to make sure you take these home, read them, understand them and get an extra person to read over them before signing. This is the same for suppliers too, don’t sign anything in the moment until it is fully digested.

Keep organised

During your planning process, make sure you stay organised, whether this be using a planning book, excel sheets or an app. Keep a list of all of the suppliers you have booked with their name, business name and contact details, along with the dates they require payments and further information. So often I speak with couples part way through their planning, or even a few weeks before the Wedding and they cannot remember who they have booked and have to search back through old emails! You also want to avoid unexpected payments!

Take time out of planning

This may seem strange now as I am sure you are super excited about planning your wedding day and don’t want to talk about anything BUT your big day, but there will be times that it can get a bit too much for you or stressful times. My advice is, from the very start of your Wedding planning journey, either set time aside when you DON’T talk about Wedding planning or time where you DO talk about Wedding planning. One of the couples I work with only discuss their Wedding plans once a week. Trust me, you will be glad for the break from it all further down the line…

Your day is YOUR day!

Remember your day is YOUR day, yours and your partners. Of course, you will want all of your friends and family to enjoy the full day, the setting, the food, the music etc but this is a day about YOU. Make sure you stick with what you have decided and how you would like your day to be. The whole planning process is part of your wedding memory – don’t let it be a stressful one because you are worried about other people.

If you need help, get help

Whether it is from one of your bridal party, your partner or a wedding planner, make sure you ask for help if you feel like your to do list is never ending and you cannot catch a break from wedding planning! It is also really important to talk to your partner or wedding planner if you are feeling stressed or worried about anything to do with your wedding day.

If you’re reading this, feeling slightly overwhelmed and still thinking ‘how am I going to plan a wedding?!’, and want to speak with a wedding planner sooner rather than later, you can book a consultation with us here!

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