Weddings have evolved in the last 15 years and there is now a variety of wedding venues available for couples today to choose from than ever before. For example, some people might just want to get married at somewhere like the admiral. Others might prefer something else -from ships to gentleman’s clubs to concert halls the variety of venues is nothing but good news for a creative photographer. Weddings are fast paced events to photograph, but when I catch my breath towards the end of the day I am reminded what a good job this is and how working in such splendid venues adds to my sense of creative fulfillment. But lets not forget the fantastic stag that will come before the big day! My friend went to Bratislava for his stag do so I asked him which bars should you visit in Bratislava? He gave me a great bunch of ideas for mine! I can’t wait. With this in mind here is a list of my current top 10 London wedding venues.
Royal Institution
The Royal Institution (21 Albemarle Street, London, W1S / www.rigb.org) is seen as much a museum as a public forum for science debate. There are seven function rooms which can host a variety of events, from performances to a small dinner for ten. Now the Institution can perform wedding ceremonies, making for an interesting venue in which to get married.
Kenwood House
The pale stuccoed exterior of Hampstead Heath’s romantic country house makes a photogenic backdrop for refined, unmistakably English wedding celebrations. The isolated location provides a rare opportunity to turn up the trad jazz. Ask permission in advance to use the tree-lined driveway for stylish arrivals. Capacity 180.
The Queen’s House
The Queen’s House in Greenwich is a wonderful wedding venue. Situated within Greenwich Royal park and part of the National Maritime museum, it was built in the 17th century and was originally home to Charles 1?s queen Henrietta Maria. The Tulip staircase is the first geometric self-supporting spiral stair in Britain and is a stunning piece of architecture, the collonades offer shelter in wet weather and soft shade from bright sunlight. The Great Hall reflects Renaissance ideals of mathematical, classical proportion and harmony; the geometric patterned black & white floor makes for stunning photographic opportunities.
If you like to see a wedding I have photographed at this venue -please follow the Link: Queens House Wedding
The Painted Hall
The Painted Hall which is part of the National Maritime Museum is sometimes described as the ‘finest dining hall in Europe’. It was originally intended as an eating space for the naval veterans who lived at the Royal Hospital and was designed by Sir Christopher Wren and Nicholas Hawksmoor. The Painted Hall is used today as a dining area for special occasions, including weddings. I have photographed weddings here many times, it is a joy to work with such visual potential.
Bluebird cafe – Kings Road, Chelsea
I have photographed a number of weddings at the Bluebird cafe on London’s Kings Road in Chelsea. This venue is chic, modern, light and tatsteful. The event team are experienced, friendly and detailed with their approach and sevice. There is a feeling of understated elegance with the interior design which lends itself well to photography. A number of orginal photographic prints from the 1940’s and 50’s addorn the walls that remind me when I’m working that I am in good company.
Syon Park
I am lucky enough to have been an accredited supplier at Syon Park for 7 years. When I work here I feel very much part of the team – Becky, Victoria and Francis are welcoming and know what is involved with wedding photography alongside the other requirements of the day. I see Syon House as 3 venues in one; the Great Hall, the courtyard and of course the Great Consevatory. Elegant, continental in feel and expansive – I have a soft spot for this venue.
If you like to see a wedding I have photographed at this venue -please follow the Link: Syon House Wedding
Chiswick House
Chiswick House is a Palladian villa in Burlington Lane, Chiswick An example of Neo-Palladian architecture in London, the house was designed by Lord Burlington and completed in 1729. The 65 acre gardens, mainly created by architect and landscape designer William Kent, here is one of the earliest examples of the English landscape gardens. Today the house is a Grade 1 listed building, and is maintained by English Heritage. I love shooting at Chiswick House, there are so many possibilities for visually stunning back drops. In my opinion this is one of the best wedding venues in London.
If you like to see a wedding I have photographed at this venue -please follow the Link: Chiswick House Wedding
Stationers’ Hall
Your guests can dine at 340-year-old tables, surrounded by polished wood panelling, huge stained-glass windows and the shields of the Stationers’ and Newspaper Makers’ Company at this Grade I-listed building, which has been the guild’s home since 1673. Three imposing function spaces all have mod cons such as vast LCD screens; discos can also be brought in. There’s no in-house catering, but there’s a long list of approved caterers. The glorious courtyard garden, dominated by a 250-year-old plane tree, recently underwent a £120,000 makeover and is an irresistible draw for a summer wedding.
Dulwich Picture Gallery
It’s hard to think of a more magnificent setting for nuptials than this gorgeous nineteenth-century building by Sir John Soane. Now that the gallery has acquired a ceremony licence, it’s possible for your whole day to take place here. Dulwich Picture Gallery, Gallery Road, SE21 7AD is a local venue for me – it is a joy to photograph in such sumptuous surroundings.
Dulwich College
I am lucky enough to be the list of recommended photographers at Dulwich college. This is a fine venue based in South East London with excellent transport links to central London. With splendid architecture and expansive grounds this venue has much visual potential. The event team are experienced and friendly and will make sure each wedding runs smoothly. There are a variety of rooms that can be used for weddings at Dulwich College, adding to the range and breadth of the photographic coverage. The Pavilion Salle on the upper floor of the Pavilion has beautiful views of the college grounds from its balconies. Kenwood House.