Your London and Surrey Wedding news and ideas from around the capital

Editor Olivia Gibson reviews The Ivy Market Grill’s festive menu and magical interiors

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Covent Garden, The Ivy Market Grill offers a hidden oasis away from the city's hustle and bustle. It's a relaxed, all-day dining destination perfect for life's special moments. With Christmas fast approaching, the team has unveiled its festive campaign, The Ivy Midnight Express, featuring a set menu, a Festive À La Carte, breakfast and afternoon tea. Each offering has been carefully crafted by the talented executive chefs, emphasising seasonal and festive ingredients. From comforting classics to refined celebratory dishes, the menu caters to every type of festive occasion. Naturally, I was thrilled to try the set menu when invited by the team, along with my partner.

Legal experts warn couples not to change wedding plans amid wedding law reforms

Proposed changes to 19th Century weddings laws could be about to change everything for couples, but one legal expert has urged wedding planners to hang fire before making any changes to their big day. Legal experts from The University of Law say: "While there have been various updates to wedding laws in recent years, such as legalising same-sex marriage and changing the legal age requirement for marriage, nothing has changed the laws that govern marriage to this extent since the 1800s. "The main thing couples need to know now, is that nothing is going to change in the immediate future. The reforms still need public consultation, then the usual Parliamentary processes before implementation, all of which could take many years.

7 Ways Marriage Celebrations Will Change By 2035

Planning a wedding used to follow a predictable script – white dress, church ceremony, big reception with 150+ guests. But it seems those days are numbered. According to this expert, the next decade promises to completely reshape how couples say "I do," driven by technology advances, environmental concerns, and evolving social attitudes. Wedding expert Nick Bramer from Country House Weddings, a family-run business specialising in exclusive-use venues across the UK, has witnessed these changes first-hand at their castle and country estate locations. "We're seeing couples make bold choices that would have seemed impossible just five years ago," says Bramer. "The traditional wedding playbook is being rewritten entirely."

No ring? No proposal! New study reveals the top reasons for a proposal turn down

A new survey of 2000 UK adults has revealed timing is everything when it comes to a proposal, but so is taste. In an era where perfect proposals are deemed as Instagram-worthy backdrops and a professional photographer, this study reveals that the fundamentals are what couples are really wanting. A new study, commissioned by professional jewellers, F. Hinds, shows nearly 3 in 10 (29%) would be turned off by a public proposal, whilst another 29% would say no if it happens on someone else's special day, such as a birthday or even another person's wedding day. The engagement ring itself still plays a pivotal role. In fact, nearly 1 in 5 (20%) say the ring, or lack of one, can make or break the moment, proving that in an era of bigger is better, the perfect ring is still the ultimate "yes" factor.

Legal officiants vs legal venues

The wedding industry in the UK is worth £14.7billion, and the average cost of a wedding is over £20,000. With not only the cost, but the time and effort put into your wedding and making it one of the most special days of your life, you want to make sure that the event does actually legally marry you and your partner! Joanna Newton, a partner at Stowe Family Law, advises on the changes, and what couples need to consider.... In England and Wales, for your marriage to be legally binding, your ceremony venue needs to be a registered location. For more and more people, this is their local registry office, as they are choosing to have their wedding in venues that, whilst special to the couple, are unlicensed. In many cases, this means couples are having two weddings – one for the legal bit and one for the fun!

Whistlefish- Affordable, eco-conscious wedding stationery & gifts

When it comes to planning a wedding, organising a hen party or finding thoughtful gifts, Whistlefish makes it simple with its beautifully designed wedding collection. Whistlefish offers affordable, design-led products that make every moment of the celebration feel special. Crafted by their in-house artists in Cornwall, the range blends timeless style with eco-conscious values, proving you don't need to spend a fortune to achieve a polished, personal wedding look. Whistlefish offers a range of chic, budget-friendly pieces to help bring a couple's vision to life.

‘Til death us do part: making plans for beyond your future.

On 16th May 2025 the Law Commission published its recommendations on wills and proposed a new statute. This is the first significant reconsideration since the Wills Act 1837 which is still effective today. Life was quite different in 1837. Queen Victoria ascended the throne aged 18 years old. Any property owned by a women on marriage was transferred automatically to her husband. It would be 40 years before Thomas Edison lit up the first electric lightbulb.

Montcalm Mayfair launches yatra wellness retreat blending holistic spa, yoga, saunas, and cultural wellbeing rituals

Montcalm Collection introduces YATRA, its new wellness retreat at Montcalm Mayfair, designed to redefine city wellbeing. Drawing inspiration from Ayurveda, East African resilience, and London's multicultural legacy, YATRA blends culture, holistic wellness, and refined rituals to create immersive journeys that refresh and rejuvenate. The subterranean spa features four luxurious treatment rooms, a double room, a yoga and meditation space, infrared and wood saunas, heat experiences with hydro pool and jacuzzi, and a gym with TechnoGym equipment. Guests can also enjoy tea rituals in partnership with Camellia's Tea House. Sophisticated pastel-toned interiors create a serene atmosphere where mind, body, and city harmonise. Book now at montcalmcollection.com/montcalm-mayfair/yatra-spa.

Bridebox - the bridal subscription box for DIY brides

Each beautifully presented box contains everything needed to create stunning wedding crafts and personalised keepsakes, alongside thoughtful self-care treats designed to help you pause and truly enjoy your engagement journey. With clear, friendly instructions and all materials included, Bridebox takes the guesswork out of adding personal touches to your big day, allowing you to experience the satisfaction of creating something meaningful while taking precious moments for yourself amidst the planning whirlwind. More than just crafts, each Bridebox offers an opportunity to learn new skills, experiment with different ideas before committing to larger wedding projects, and perhaps most importantly, provides that perfect excuse to set aside the to-do list, brew a cuppa, and reconnect with the joy that should always be at the heart of your wedding planning adventure.

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.