A Long Awaited Claridges Wedding With Couture Phillipa Lepley Gown, McQueens Floral Installations, And Beautiful Ballroom Ceremony & Reception
Josh and Lucie originally planned to get married in May last year, and when I met up with them at Claridges for their pre-wedding shoot, we had no idea what was to come. Fast forward to 2021, and after the heartache of having to postpone several times, yesterday was finally THEIR day!
Claridges
I love documenting a Claridges wedding. This iconic English institution is simply the most special hotel I know. From the moment you enter the beautiful art deco interior, you experience the most impeccable service and made to feel so welcome. Nothing is too much trouble, and ‘anything is possible’. It’s just a really special place and it’s no wonder that Lucie and Josh chose it as their wedding venue.
The Dress, Hair & Makeup, And Flowers
Lucy chose a couture wedding dress by English designer Phillipa Lepley, with off the shoulder collar, a long train (and veil), and Phillipa’s signature hidden corsetry. Her mum and sister were well rehearsed and carefully helped Lucie into her frock until it felt just right. Phillipa says that “The key of brilliant corsetry is a fit that’s beyond measure in its ability to define and flatter the female form.” Well Lucie looked absolutely stunning, and teamed the dress with crystal embellished sparkly Jimmy Choo pumps. She also wore her mum’s diamond and sapphire (something blue) earrings, and later changed into some sparkling art deco style drop earrings.
For her bouquet, Lucie chose delicate white sweetpea and Lily of the valley, created for her by Gina Hardy at Mcqueens Flowers. The scent was wonderful. I also loved all the flowers for the reception which included big white hydrangea, and cafe au lait dahlia. All terribly pretty.
Lucie’s bridesmaids wore Champagne satin frocks by Ghost, and her mum Debbie wore a 1920’s inspired silver frock with bugle beads and lots of swing! Perfect for Claridges Art Deco interiors.
Lucie’s chic and minimalist up-do was created for her by stylist Maxx Anderson, and her flawless bridal makeup by Quelle Bester.
Planning & Coordination
Lucie and Josh planned their day with the help and advice of Cat Spencer. She was there throughout the day and evening to ensure that everything ran as smoothly as possible. I’ve known Cat for several years now, and it was great to work with her once again. I’m so grateful for her facilitating some great bride and groom portraits by letting us use some of the more public areas of the hotel without impacting too much on other guests. I especially love the portraits of Lucie and Josh in the foyer.
Other Details
The couple’s wedding cake, by Deluce Cake Design was monumental, quite literally. Also the staging, sound, lighting, dry ice, and pyrotechnics by Oxygen Events really helped to make the reception and later dancing super special.
This really was a very special day to document. Lucie and Josh are so obviously in love, and utterly devoted to each other. Lucie was bursting to see Josh, and he equally excited to see her. We had arranged for me to give Josh the nod when it was time for him to turn and see Lucie walking down the aisle. Josh told me he wanted to wait for a while and let Lucie ‘have her moment‘. I think I have some dust in my eye….
As usual I’ve chosen far too many photographs for just a preview, but I can’t help but tell the story of this fantastic day.
Lucie & Josh, well it’s been quite the journey, hasn’t it?! I’m so thrilled for you both. What a magical day. Here is your preview. Jx
Venue – Claridges
Flowers – McQueens
Dress – Phillipa Lepley
Shoes – Jimmy Choo
Hair – Maxx Anderson
Makeup – Quelle Bester
Cake – Deluce cakes
Staging – Oxygen Events
Planning & Coordination. -Catherine Spencer – Claridges.
