It was a dream come true coordinating A+A’s wedding at The Mile End Arts Pavilion also known as The Mile End Ecology Pavilion. The ideal dry hire event space built into a grass bank with a glass frontage floods the interiors with beautiful light. 

Memories I Will Cherish Forever at The Ecology Pavilion

I still remember the awe-inspiring floor-to-ceiling windows that overlooked the lake as they danced the night away with loved ones! 

It was lovely to see their guests mingling at the drinks reception, taking in the beautiful surroundings. Meanwhile, our newlyweds enjoyed a moment alone to take couples portraits within the gorgeous little oasis of green backing onto Regent’s Canal on the cusp of South Hackney. 

Guests were seated for dinner! And after a series of heartfelt speeches & giggles and cake-cutting… the band kicked off, and the party began. And what a party it was. 

The Ecology Pavilion’s rural feel and urban location make it a unique and ideal alternative dry-hire wedding venue in East London. I love coordinating there. 

On the Day Management – The Ecology Pavilion

A+A chose the Mile End Ecology Pavilion, a dry hire space, as they knew it would allow them to build their dream wedding from scratch. As well as provide the flexibility to choose the suppliers of their dreams – and they did an excellent job! 

The hire package they chose at the Pavilion: 

• Allowed us to set up the evening before, enabling the Mollineau Weddings & Events Team to oversee the furniture deliveries and coordinate the initial set-up. 
• Followed by full-day access on the big day, where we provided on-the-day wedding management.
• Plus, access the following morning for collections & pickups. 

Unflappable Coordination – Mollineau Weddings & Events

A+A approached me once they’d secured their alternative dry-hire wedding venue in East London. They had planned most of their wedding but needed a hand tying everything together. For example: sourcing a few last-minute additions.

Once appointed, as their Mile End Ecology Pavillion wedding planner I designed custom and comprehensive plans for our couple. This inspired absolute confidence in their road ahead! 

Based on the couple’s schedule, various ad-hoc wedding planning tasks were provided from Mollineau Weddings & Events. For example:

• I scouted venues for the bridal party (getting ready location).
• I ground checked and logistically planned.
• Successfully produced alternative 3D floor plans & timelines etc.
• I assisted groomsmen with personal shopping errands including vegan and more.

As their Mile End Ecology Pavillion wedding coordinator, I was 100% dedicated to keeping the planning journey stress-free. Mollineau Weddings & Events paved the way for our modern couple to host a thoroughly enjoyable wedding celebration without the fuss.

Testimonials – The Ecology Pavilion

We just wanted to say a MASSIVE THANK YOU, once again for everything you did for us in preparation and on the day of the wedding. We are so glad that you were able to be a part of our ceremony and can’t thank you enough. Thank you once again for everything! A+A

Get In Touch

Are you planning to get married at the Ecology Pavilion? Do you want some advice? If you’re looking for an East London wedding coordinator get in touch! I’d love to hear from you.

The post The Ecology Pavilion – Dry Hire Coordinator appeared first on Mollineau Weddings & Events.

1. Engagement Ring Care

Many of you were presented with a beautiful sparkly engagement ring. However, overtime you may find that your little beauty may loose a little bit of her shine. Don’t panic! This is entirely normal. The use of hand sanitiser, soaps, makeup & cosmetics, plus a little wear and tear, can cause your engagement ring to look a little dull. Which is why you should have your engagement ring professionally cleaned once in a while.

If you’re wondering how often you should have your engagement ring cleaned and the costs associated, look no further. Here, I outline a few hidden wedding costs of ensuring your engagement ring is in tip-top shape for all of your pre-wedding appearances. 

I personally allocated 10% of my engagement ring value for a professional clean. And I wasn’t disappointed at all! My family jeweller had my engagement ring looking it’s best in no time. Within 24 hours, me and my engagement ring were ready to strut our stuff – cue Beyoncé ‘single ladies’ (put a ring on it).

2. Jewellery Care Kit

My ring made a star appearance at our professional engagement shoot, our engagement party and last but not least our wedding day. This should be obvious, right? If I was given a £1, each time a bride forgot to include the cost of cleaning her engagement ring in her wedding budget – I’d be the richest wedding planner in London! 

Please don’t stress if you’re unable to get your engagement ring professionally cleaned. For instance, you could always ask your jeweller for advice. They’ll be best placed to recommend an at home cleaning kit, which usually costs between £25 – £50. Just make sure that all of your wedding jewellery is glistening in time for your big day. The last thing I want, is for you to look back at your wedding photos with any regret. 

3. The Hidden Costs Of A Wedding Website

Is a wedding website, one of your hidden wedding costs? I hope not. Opting for a personalised wedding website was one of the best decisions my husband and I made. We were lucky enough to get married in 2019. During this time there was a lot of uncertainty due to Brexit. We found our wedding website was the best platform to bring all of our 300 guests together in once place – virtually. Plus it served as an excellent reference point for us all – guests, bridal party and suppliers included. 

With virtual weddings becoming more popular these days, in addition to traditional wedding stationary, a wedding website is a fantastic way to set the tone for your big day and give your guests a glimpse of what to expect. Just think, your guests will be given an incredible opportunity to gain an insight into your relationship and get to know your bridal party at their own pace. You can even set-up alerts to notify your guests of any last minute changes. 

Depending on the functionality, aesthetic and length of time you’d like your wedding website ‘live’. You should allocate £100 – £250 for the design and hosting of your wedding website. £250 – £500 if planning your wedding during COVID-19. You may find my wedding planning power hours handy if you need help writing your content.

While the main purpose of a wedding website is to assist ‘all’ in the lead up to your wedding day. For me, it served as a beautiful memento. A beautiful keepsakes for me and my family to reflect on many years after my wedding day.

4. The Costs Associated With Storing Your Wedding Dress

Whether you’re considering an elopement or need to store your wedding dress before or after your wedding day. I’d highly recommend you purchase a luxury wedding dress storage box with acid free tissue paper. This will protect your dress from any damage. I remember having to purchase several boxes: 1 for my wedding dress, 1 for my veil and a few for my flower girls and bridesmaids. Depending on the size of your dress, layers and veil length, a good quality dress storage box can cost anywhere between £75 – £200.

5. Wedding Dress Alterations

When searching for my own wedding dress, I quickly learnt that wedding dresses are not made to measure! Most brides will need some kind of alteration to ensure their dress fits them perfectly. Whether that’s adding 25 bustles as I did or raising the hem, each alteration will soon add-up. So I’d recommend you set aside 15% – 20% of your entire wedding dress budget for alterations. 

6. The Hidden Wedding Costs For COVID-19 Safety Measures

As if planning a wedding budget isn’t tough enough, you now have to factor in a global pandemic! During COVID-19, all couples should include a wedding budget line for COVID-19 safety measures. For instance, to keep your guests safe, its likely you’ll need to foot the bill for hand sanitiser, face coverings and possibly testing.

If you’re struggling to put together a wedding budget, or need help with anything else don’t be afraid to ask. For instance, you may want to consider my wedding planning services. Alternatively my wedding planning power hours have been very popular during the pandemic.

I look forward to hearing from you soon!

Marsha Mollineau-Griffiths, Laid-back Luxury Wedding Planner

The post Planning Your Wedding Budget – 6 Hidden Wedding Costs Every Couple Should Consider appeared first on Mollineau Weddings & Events.

Unfortunately, the uncertainty is ongoing and probably will be for the foreseeable future. Whether you’re re-planning your big day, had to postpone or taking your first steps to planning a wedding during COVID-19, my heart goes out to you. 

Small Intimate Wedding Venues in London

Forgive me if I’m wrong, but I can only assume that you are reading my blog because you had your heart set on a big wedding with a huge party. And, the thought of a small wedding ceremony, followed by dinner with friends and family isn’t your idea of a wedding at all! Compromising your original plans is all to overwhelming to say the least. 

It’s been many months since the pandemic changed the way we live and work, and nothing feels more important than staying connected to our friends and family. As a laid back luxury London wedding planner, I’ve handpicked a selection of intimate wedding venues in London, that are sure to steal your heart and have you tie the knot sooner rather than later. From Michelin-starred restaurants located in the sophisticated City of London to grand hotels in Mayfair. You’re sure to fall in love with at least one of these venue spaces and warm to the idea of a intimate ceremony followed by dinner with close friends and family. 

6 Intimate Wedding Venues In London You Shouldn’t Overlook

So, whether you’re planning a grand showstopper reception with a high number of guest (when it’s safe to do so), or a sophisticated intimate celebration with close friends and family. In no particular order as they are all so fabulous, I present to you…a handful of luxury intimate wedding venues in London for your consideration. 

South Place Hotel

South Place Hotel excludes both elegance and style. I first visited South Place Hotel in Spring 2020. And, immediately fell in love with the contemporary variety of luxurious, stunning and unique social spaces. For example, you could choose to celebrate your micro-wedding against the romantic backdrop of London’s sweeping city views. Chill-out at the incredible outdoor terrace or you could treat you and your guests to a world-class dinning experience on the stunning rooftop terrace at their Michelin-starred restaurant Angler. Finished off with an overnight stay in one of their luxury hotel rooms. Put simply, South Place hotel brings everything together under one roof.

RSA House 

I also fell in love with RSA House during summer 2020! This beautiful standout city venue is full of Georgian architecture and modern facilities. The art-lined Great Room is one of my favourite rooms here. It may come as a surprise to you,  but the Great Room at RSA House isn’t just for huge wedding parties. The Great Room is full of rich history and is a must see. The clever lighting instantly makes this space into something more intimate. The lofty high-ceilings paired with the stunning dome’s skylight will have you dining under the stars in style. RSA House definitely has the wow factor.

10-11 Carlton House Terrace 

I had the pleasure of visiting this spectacular Grade I listed Georgian Townhouse, summer 2020. This beautiful Central London venue offers private hire of 10 different rooms, each with their own character and charm. For an intimate wedding in London, I’d highly recommend the Music Room, the Lee Library or a personal favourite of mine the Cornwall Room. They are the perfect match for civil or religious ceremonies, non-religious wedding blessings & elegant private dining functions.

The Landmark

One of London’s most sought-after private dining rooms: The Tower Suite at The Landmark. This unique private dining room offers classic style and elegance. The sky really is the limit here! The stunning glass roof offers a fantastic view over the stunning winter garden. The private dinning room creates the perfect ambience for an intimate wedding celebration in West London. Plus, you could always stay the night – the executive corner suite is a family favourite of ours.

The Biltmore Mayfair

Located in London’s prestigious Grosvenor Square, The Biltmore Mayfair will not disappoint the modern day independent bride. It’s both modern and sophisticated. Surrounded by gardens and greenery the hotel offers a seamless balance of distinguishing character and unrivalled service for the modern busy bride who needs to keep both her loved-ones and business associates in mind when planning her big day. 

You can unwind with mum at the Tea Lounge and enjoy one of London’s finest afternoon teas. Let your hair down with your bridal squad at the sophisticated Pine Bar.  Enjoy a world-class meal with your business associates at one of the capital’s most sought-after restaurants: the Betterment. Or simply enjoy sweet delicacies and a moment to yourself in the Writer’s Corner (I’d recommend the Dorset spice apple cake). 

So whether you’re thinking micro wedding or exuberant party, pre-wedding or post-wedding celebrations you’ll be spoilt for choice at the Biltmore Mayfair. They have it all: expansive ballrooms, exquisite intimate private dinning rooms, an all year round terrace and more.

Clissold House 

As a Hackney based wedding planner, my blog wouldn’t be complete without the mention of Clissold House. This grade II listed venue provides a stunning setting for an intimate wedding in North London. The large ornate windows flood the space with ample natural light and boasts exceptional views across Clissold park.

You’ll be spoilt for choice here. The house offers two main rooms on the first floor with an outdoor terrace. The Drawing Room, Dining Room and adjoining Hallway are perfect for the most stylish of weddings. The original features such as the iconic spiral staircase ensure breathtaking photo opportunities for you and your guest. A fantastic choice for an intimate celebration in North London. 

What Did You Think About The Intimate Wedding Venues I Mentioned Today?

So that’s it. A small selection of intimate wedding venues for your consideration. In summary, we first had: South Place Hotel. Second, RSA House. Third, 10-11 Carlton House Terrace. Fourth, The Lamdmark, fifth Clissold House and last but not least, The Biltmore Mayfair.

Let’s Connect?

I really hope you enjoyed reading my blog. Please feel free to contact me, if you’re fed-up of waiting to tie the knot and have changed your mind about having a big wedding. I can help you plan an intimate wedding in London, safely reuniting your closest friends and family.

Please do follow our Instagram account, if you found our recommendations helpful. Alternatively, you can send me a direct message. I’d love to hear all about your wedding planning journey.

I’m Still Not Sure If A Small Intimate Wedding Is For Me!

If you feel the intimate wedding venues i’ve shared today are not quite what you’re looking for, don’t hesitate to contact me.  I’m always keen to utilise my little black book of wedding venues for my couples. In other words, I’ll handpick the best small intimate wedding venues in London for you, and have you saying yes to the venue in no time.

Marsha Mollineau-Griffiths

Laid back luxury wedding planner in London.

The post Micro Weddings – 6 Intimate Wedding Venues In London appeared first on Mollineau Weddings & Events.

How Do I Pick A Wedding Dress Shop In London?

I understand choosing where to buy a wedding dress in London will undoubtedly be one of your biggest pre-wedding tasks. For some London brides, wedding dress shopping will be a breeze. For example, they’ll have a clear vision in their mind, find the dress of their dreams and live happily ever after. However, for some brides, deciding where to buy a wedding dress in London can be very cumbersome and draining. For instance: Firstly, there are the sheer number of London bridal boutiques to consider. Secondly, there are a high number of variables, in addition to, the array of options that need mulling-over when selecting your bridal attire. Subsequently, attempting to figure-out which boutiques to visit, can be very daunting, time consuming, frustrating, moreover a waste of your time! 

Fear not. If you’re planning to walk down the aisle soon, and still wondering where to buy a wedding dress in London.  I’ll be your luxury London wedding planner for today. That’s right; I’ve done some of the legwork for you and curated a short list of London bridal boutiques, for your consideration.

Traditional, contemporary, couture, modern or boujee, whatever your bridal aspirations: I’ve got you covered. Ahead, and in no particular order (they’re all so good!), the great places to buy luxury wedding dresses in London. 

1. Dreaming Of A Luxury Couture Wedding Dress?

Phillipa Lepley – If you desire a luxury couture wedding dress and are still wondering: where can I buy a wedding dress in London. Phillipa Lepley, located in the heart of Chelsea is one of London’s go-to atelier for immaculately tailored, bespoke wedding dresses.  

Having your dress designed by Phillipa Lepley is such a joyous affair! Above all, the renowned service is professional, unhurried and exclusive to every client. Lepley gowns are custom-made to enhance and flatter your figure, making them the ultimate in bespoke design for brides-to-be. 

In conclusion, if you want a flaw-sweeping couture wedding dress, fine embellishments and immaculately sculptured silhouettes. This boutique’s exciting one-to-one experience allows you to work together with your couture consultant to create your personal vision of perfection.  That’s right your dress your way! From the first consultation to the final fitting, each Phillipa Lepley couture dress is meticulously designed, precisely engineered and intricately hand-created for you.

2. Home To Luxury Bridal – The Wedding Gallery In London

The Wedding Gallery – Here at Mollineau Weddings and Events we’re in love with The Wedding Gallery. It’s a must-see experience for many of our clients. As far as gowns go, The Wedding Gallery is appointed as the UK Vera Wang Bridal Flagship store and is home to bridal brands such as Elie Saab, Oscar De La Renta, and Berta. Put simply, The Wedding Gallery is home to the best in luxury bridal. 

Therefore, if you’re looking for a trend-setting statement gown that would rival red carpet celebs, this luxury wedding department store in the heart of London is for you! Situated in the basement of One Marylebone, you’ll be greeted by an attentive wedding gallery consultant . After that, you’ll be led to a stylish reception area and swept through a secret moving bookcase where the gallery opens before your eyes. It’s all a bit magical; for instance, you get to browse the world’s most sought after designer luxury bridal collections.

3. Where Can I Buy A Bohemian Or Non-Traditional Wedding Dress In London

Suzanne Harrington – A bridal boutique in Walthamstow that means business! If you’re planning to say “I do” in an intimate chapel or a remote destination, Suzanne Harrington has got you covered. Think, whimsical, romantic, bohemian inspired. Suzanne’s hand made wedding dresses ooze sophistication. The flowy fabrics are elegant, modern and completely heavenly. Perfect for the free-spirited bride.

Don’t stress if you’re not sure where to start. Suzanne Harringtons bridal boutique is welcoming, warm and friendly. Above all, she has the expertise to sketch and design the most flattering silhouettes for your frame. Personalising your wedding dress, making it unique to you. So, if your looking for a splendid wedding dress that is light-weight, relaxed, comfortable, free-spirited and above all, a natural extension of your individuality, this could be the boutique for you.

4. I’m A Modern Bride, Where Can I Buy A Wedding Dress In London?

David’s Bridal – David’s Bridal houses a selection of American designers, including a personal favourite of mine: the legendary Vera Wang White collection.

The romantic staircase leading to the bridal suite, (exclusively for brides-to-be) is sure to inspire your own entryway design! I personally love the wedding dress consultation foyer. The soft romantic palettes, are sure to give a busy bride a sense of peace and relaxation after a hectic day of wedding planning.

If you view walking down the aisle as your own “red carpet” moment, the Truly Zac Posen lines may be just what you and your bridesmaids are looking for. An added bonus is the grand bride dressing room, which provides a beautiful opportunity for you to try your aisle walk . The atmosphere at this stage hums excitement!

5. I Want Luxury Designer & Exclusivity, Where Can I Buy A Wedding Dress In London?

Browns Bride – the queen of bridal boutiques. This upscale bridal boutique is the perfect match for the independent, modern woman. Home to big name designers like Valentino, Peter Langer and Vivienne Westwood. In other words, Browns Bride is known for leading the way in luxurious, couture bridal fashion. The luxury boutique is a treasure house to the a wonderful selection of bridal gowns.

Above all, you’ll have endless fun experimenting with the refreshing diverse designer collections, offering twists on the traditional gowns we’ve come accustomed to seeing over the years. In conclusion, a visit to Browns Bride will prove very exciting for a bride seeking a memorable experience in a setting which hosts an incredible selection of exclusive, luxury wedding gowns.

Share Your Experience With Me

So that’s it, first we had Phillipa Lepley. Second, The Wedding Gallery. Third, Suzanne Harrington. Fourth, Davids Bridal and last but not least, Browns Bride. I really hope you enjoyed reading my blog. Please do follow our Instagram account, if you found it helpful. Alternatively, you can send me a direct message. I’d love to hear how your wedding dress search is going.

Above all, if you feel the boutiques I’ve shared today are not what you’re looking for, don’t hesitate to contact me. For instance, I’m always keen to utilise my little black book of wedding suppliers for my brides! In other words, I’ll handpick the best wedding boutiques in London for you, and have you saying ”yes to the dress“ in no time.

Marsha Mollineau-Griffiths, East London Wedding Planner.

Main Image Credit: Wedding Dress Available To Purchase At The Wedding Gallery Photographer: Emma-Jane Lewis | Model Katie Oladap

The post Wedding Planning Tips – Where Can I Buy A Wedding Dress In London? appeared first on Mollineau Weddings & Events.

As you begin your search for a luxury wedding planner, you may notice that many luxury planners will offer a complimentary wedding consultation before recommending any of their wedding planning services. So, what does a wedding consultation in London entail?

How Do I Prepare for a Virtual Wedding Consultation With My London Wedding Planner? 

Thanks to technology, wedding planners are offering virtual wedding consultations in order to make sure you can plan your wedding while staying safe at home. 

Rest assure, wedding planning consultations can be done just as effectively online! Virtual wedding consultations, lets you hold a detailed discussion with your luxury planner. You can even share visuals without the need to meet in person. 

I understand first hand that, getting married in London is an incredibly exciting and happy time. It’s not unusual for you to feel that you must have all of your closest and dearest with you every step of the way. However, your first wedding consultation is usually an intimate meeting (with a confidential approach) shared with you, the professional wedding planner and your wife or husband to be. 

During your wedding consultation, you’ll be skimming over sensitive information, for example: your wedding budget, how much you are willing to spend and if there will be any financial contributions from family, and friends.

I’d recommended you and your fiancé/fiancée set aside an hour for your wedding consultation. I suggest you find either a comfy space at home, or an uninterrupted space with a strong internet connection. Avoid using a mobile phone, instead use a larger screened device, which will enhance your screen sharing experience. Last but not least, you’re welcome to bring a glass of wine, or something special to toast the occasion.

What If I Want To Meet Face-to-Face?

We have access to a wide selection of luxury hotels all over London, and pride ourselves on tailored experiences. Our luxury wedding planning consultations are deigned to make your wedding planning journey stress-free. Therefore we give our couples the choice to meet up at one of our offices in London, or for a more tailored experience we can meet at a luxury wedding venue in London, which reflects the style of wedding our clients want.

I’m Not Sure What Type of Wedding I Want, Can I Still Have A Wedding Consultation?

Wedding consultations are a vital part of the wedding planning process. This early phase is all about the creative vibe you want on your wedding day. What’s the overall theme? What sort of atmosphere do you want? What aesthetic are you looking for? Moreover, how will your personal style translate into decisions about your wedding? 

Don’t worry if you’re not sure about the type of wedding you want at this stage. Luxury wedding planners are experienced in lighting an imaginative spark with clients. Moreover they’ll use the consultation to get to know you and vice versa. 

Boutique soirée, simple but stylish, grand and lavish… whatever you’re dreaming of, our experienced London wedding planner Marsha can suggest a range of inspiring and clever themes for you both to choose from. 

What Happens After My Consultation?

Upon completion of your wedding consultation, we’ll write a tailored, fully costed wedding proposal explaining how we’ll create a unique wedding experience for you and your guests. We can work on the entire event or just the parts you choose.

Ready to Book Your Wedding Planning Consultation?

We can chat on the phone, or better still, get to know each other in person. To book your free initial consultation with our luxury London wedding planner Marsha, please select a time that is convenient to you here.

In the meantime, journey with us behind the scenes on our Instagram page.

The post Wedding Planning – What To Expect At A Wedding Consultation? appeared first on Mollineau Weddings & Events.