Going Out Special: A Marylebone Wedding – From ‘Yes’ To ‘I Do’

There’s something undeniably chic about tying the knot in London. Not only is the capital home to some of the world’s most dazzling venues, there’s a distinct romance to a London wedding – stepping out of a black cab and strolling through the city streets in your gown, backdropped by world-famous landmarks. The hotspot to know for upcoming nuptials? Portman Marylebone. With its Georgian townhouses, specialist shops and stylish venues, the characterful neighbourhood is fast becoming the city’s wedding capital. From the boutique stores of Chiltern Street to award-winning restaurants on Seymour Place and the historic Old Marylebone Town Hall, the area has you covered for the entire wedding journey – from the engagement to the big day itself.

The Bride

So you’ve said yes and now you’re planning a little engagement party. Head to Portman Marylebone to find the perfect outfit: independent London-based label Jovonna London on George Street has a great spring/summer collection right now featuring lots of bridal outfits (the Sonia Skirt, £85, has honeymoon written all over it). Find the perfect accessories to complement your outfit at Anna + Nina on Chiltern Street (see our top statement bag pick below).

Next, head to Mouki Mou to begin your hunt for the perfect wedding day jewellery – the brand offers unique pieces from all over the world, like these pretty Ten Thousand Small Cross Pearl Earrings, £280. Stop by US-based label Sabah to find a chic pair of handcrafted leather shoes for your honeymoon. Finally, find your perfect wedding day scent at Nicolaï, which offers memorable scents for both women and men.

Ahead of the wedding day (or if you’re suspicious a proposal might be coming) get your manicure done at Show Me Your Nails, a premium, independent spot which emphasises healthy nail care (find bridal nail inspiration here). 

The Groom

First thing’s first: find a suave outfit to pop the question in. Browse long-standing boutique Grey Flannel on Chiltern Street – which sells a range of merino shirts, drape chinos and more – and British brand Sunspel, known for its specially crafted fabrics. It’s also worth checking out TWC (The Workers Club), beloved for its time-proof pieces including Japanese denim, shirts and accessories (check out the brand’s new Made to Order service).

Later down the line, return to Portman Marylebone to find your dream wedding suit. Oliver Spencer is known for its wearable and responsibly produced menswear, including a range of premium suits – linen, two piece and double breasted (the Silman Navy Double Breasted Suit, £768, feels fitting for a city wedding).

Another great option is British heritage brand New & Lingwood. This store is an excellent choice for wedding suits, offering morning suits and black tie as well as more relaxed styles, plus an impressive selection of ties, from plain to the intricately patterned.

The Ceremony

Say ‘I Do’ at Old Marylebone Town Hall, a Grade II listed wedding venue which offers licensed ceremony rooms for marriages and civil partnerships. With its neoclassical architecture, impressive grand facade and Corinthian columns, the Marylebone Road building is a timeless spot to get your confetti snaps – ideal for couples looking for that historic feel. Inside is equally aesthetic: think walnut panelled walls and plaster ceilings alongside Scandi-inspired furnishings.

The Celebrations

If excellent food and wine are high on your priority list, choose French-inspired wine bar and restaurant Clarette for your post-ceremony party. The venue is set in a beautifully restored Tudor townhouse just a short walk from Old Marylebone Town Hall, with various spaces available for both intimate and larger weddings (the private dining room fits 18 seated guests, or you can book out the entire venue which fits up to 100 standing). The specially created wedding menu includes starters like seabass ceviche and truffle double baked souffle leeks followed by mains of beef wellington or lobster risotto, ending on a sweet note with pistachio crème brûlée.

Prefer Italian cuisine? Seymour Street’s The Italian Greyhound is another option for your wedding breakfast. Host an intimate affair in the light-filled, leafy Garden Room (up to 52 seated guests) or book out the whole restaurant, which can be decked out in majestic long feasting tables. Treat your guests to antipasti of burrata and datterini tomatoes followed by a pasta course, then mains including aubergine parmigiana, chicken milanese and yellowfin tuna, and desserts of homemade ice cream and Italian cheese.

Little Luxuries

Psssst…

If you choose Old Marylebone Town Hall for your wedding ceremony, you’ll be following in the footsteps of a string of celebrities. Sir Paul McCartney, The Beatles’ Ringo Starr and Liam Gallagher all married there, and just this May Dua Lipa and Callum Turner wed at the star-studded venue (with Dua donning a white skirt suit by Schiaparelli couture). 

Find out more at portmanmarylebone.com and on Instagram @portmanmarylebone