London Elopement Guide – All you need to know about making your Elopement in London memorable
A London elopement is an exquisite fusion of intimacy and grandeur, offering couples the chance to declare their love amidst the timeless beauty and cultural diversity of England’s capital. As the city’s heartbeats with history and innovation, saying “I do” in the enchanting backdrop of London is a dream come true for those seeking a unique and intimate wedding experience.
“Engagement marks the end of a whirlwind romance and the beginning of an eternal love story.”
Rajeev Ranjan
We’ll explore the allure of this romantic city, uncover the legal essentials, and guide you through every detail, ensuring your elopement becomes a cherished memory.
From the iconic landmarks that set the stage for your vows to the finest vendors who will craft your special day, our guide will illuminate the path to your dream London elopement.
Hiring The Now Time ensured every moment was captured beautifully, guiding us through the process and leaving us with cherished memories.
EMILIA, 2023 ELOPEMENT
What is a London elopement?
A London elopement is your passport to a one-of-a-kind love story. Picture this: you and your beloved, hand in hand, surrounded by the rich history and timeless charm of London. It’s an intimate, heartfelt celebration where the two of you steal away to say your vows, free from the pomp and circumstance of a big wedding.
The event is all about intimacy, spontaneity, and romance. It’s a chance to create a deeply personal and meaningful experience, just for you and your partner.
London elopements are your chance to make memories that will last a lifetime. It’s about the two of you, your love, and the city that will bear witness to your most precious moments.
Why elope in London?
Eloping in London can be a great choice for several reasons. Firstly, London offers a wide range of stunning locations for elopements, such as Kew Gardens, Hyde Park, and luxurious hotels like Ritz or Shangri La that are the perfect places to host your reception. These wonderful locations provide a unique setting for couples looking to have an intimate and memorable wedding experience.
Secondly, London is a diverse city with a rich cultural heritage, making it an exciting destination for eloping couples. With its iconic landmarks like Big Ben and Tower Bridge, as well as world-renowned museums and art galleries, there are endless opportunities for capturing breathtaking elopement photos.
“Remember tonight, for it is the beginning of always.”
Dante Alighieri
Is it legal to get married in UK?
London’s vibrant cosmopolitan atmosphere welcomes foreign couples from around the world with open arms. To make this happen you will first need to apply for a visa to come to the UK and to “give notice” at your local register office.
Depending on where you’re from and what you’re planning to do after the wedding, UK requires different types of permits.
You will need only a marriage visitor visa if you don’t want to live in the UK after your London elopement.
After you apply for the visa, you will need to plan a ceremony because you will have to offer information about the final venue when giving notice. Also, you must do the ceremony within 12 months of “giving notice”.
You can do a religious or civil ceremony. If you’re choosing a religious wedding, you will need an authorized person (minister, rabbi, priest, vicar) who can sign the marriage schedule or document. Learn more here on how to plan your ceremony!
To learn more about how to get married in London, and make sure you’re giving notice with the right visa, check the regulations here.
What do I need to plan a magnificent London elopement?
To plan a magnificent London elopement, you need to meticulously orchestrate several key elements. First and foremost, establish a clear budget to guide your choices and ensure a spectacular yet manageable celebration.
Deal with the legal requirements for marriage in London, like marriage licenses and any residency prerequisites.
Also, you will need to find an officiant, whether it is a religious leader or civil celebrant, who resonates with your vision for the day.
Capture the magic of the moment with a professional photographer and videographer who can artfully immortalize your love story. Reserve accommodation that reflects your style, whether it’s a luxurious hotel, or an intimate and cozy bed and breakfast.
Decide on your wedding gown, considering London’s changeable weather and the location of the wedding. Ensure all required legal documents are in order, which may include marriage licenses, birth certificates, and passports. Create a detailed timeline for the day, from morning preparations to post-ceremony festivities.
Consider whether you need witnesses, and if so, invite close friends or family members to partake in your intimate affair. Adorn your ceremony with beautiful flowers and any decor that aligns with your aesthetic preferences.
Transportation is key; a classic London black cab can add a touch of elegance to your arrival or choose a classical luxurious car. Plan a post-ceremony meal at one of London’s world-class restaurants, and perhaps explore the city’s vibrant nightlife or unwind privately as part of your celebrations.
Add personal touches, like handwritten vows, or love letters to each other.
“Every love story is beautiful, but ours is my favorite.”
What about the guests? Who should I invite to my elopement in London?
The guest list for your elopement in London is a highly personal choice, depending on your vision for the day. Elopements can range from entirely private affairs to small, intimate gatherings. You may choose to have no guests, focusing solely on your commitment to each other. Alternatively, you can invite a select group of close family and friends to witness your vows, creating an intimate atmosphere while maintaining privacy.
Consider your geographical location and logistics; if you’re eloping in London and have friends or family nearby, you might choose to invite a small group of them.
Some couples opt for a post-elopement celebration or reception with a larger guest list, where they can share their joy with a broader circle of loved ones.
Ultimately, your elopement is about your love and commitment, so the guest list should align with your desires for this deeply personal and meaningful occasion.
Should I hire a London elopement planner?
Deciding whether to hire a London elopement planner hinges on your personal preferences, budget, and the complexity of your elopement. An elopement planner can bring expertise and local knowledge to the table. They understand the intricacies of arranging a memorable elopement in London, from locations to the best vendors. This can simplify your planning process and ensure that your day goes off without a hitch.
Elopement planners can also offer a customized experience, tailoring every aspect of your elopement to your tastes. Furthermore, planners often have established connections with local vendors, potentially securing better pricing and service quality.
As a start, we highly recommend creating a Pinterest or a mood board with all the things you’d love to see at your elopement in London.
London elopement planner packages
One of the significant advantages of hiring a planner is reducing stress. Planning an event, even an elopement, can be overwhelming, and a planner can take care of the logistics, allowing you to savor the joy of your special day.
You can opt for full services that include planning your entire elopement or partial planning. That includes planning the party or other requirements that you couldn’t do yourself.
How do I find the best vendors for a stunning London Elopement?
Finding the best vendors for your London elopement is crucial to ensure a seamless and memorable experience. Here are steps to help you discover and select top-notch vendors:
1. Ask for recommendations
Begin by asking for recommendations from friends, family, or anyone you know who has recently married in London. Personal referrals can be invaluable.
2. Do your research online about London elopement vendors
Go on wedding websites, forums, and social media platforms. They often have reviews and recommendations for vendors in London.
3. Ask your elopement planner
If you’ve hired an elopement planner, they can be a valuable resource. They typically have established relationships with local vendors and can recommend those that align with your vision and budget.
4. Read reviews of London elopement vendors
Once you’ve identified potential vendors, read reviews on platforms like Yelp, WeddingWire, or The Knot. Pay attention to both positive and negative feedback.
View portfolios
Request to see the portfolios of photographers, videographers, and other creative vendors. This will give you a sense of their style and quality of work.
Interview vendors
Schedule online interviews or meetings with potential vendors to discuss your elopement vision, ask questions, and evaluate their responsiveness and professionalism.
What vendors do I need for my London elopement?
Vendors are professionals who provide various services for your London elopement. They bring expertise, experience, and specialized skills to make your elopement not only run smoothly but also reflect your unique vision and style.
Vendors play a crucial role in creating the atmosphere, capturing memories, and handling logistical details, allowing you to enjoy a stress-free and memorable reception. Their contributions help turn your elopement into the moment you’ve always dreamed.
Elopement Photographer and Videographer
Capture the moments and memories of your elopement with high-quality photographs and videos. As London elopement photographers, we would love to be part of your London elopement and capture your special day.
Officiant
An officiant is essential for conducting your wedding ceremony and legalizing your marriage.
Venue
Choose a location for your ceremony and, if desired, a reception or celebration afterward.
Florist
A florist can provide beautiful floral arrangements, bouquets, and boutonnieres to decorate your setting and even reception.
Caterer
If you plan to have a meal or refreshments, a caterer can provide a personalized menu to suit your taste.
Transportation
Arrange transportation to and from your ceremony location, which can add a touch of elegance to your day.
Hair and makeup artist:
If you want professional styling, a hair and makeup artist can help you look your best.
Elopement planner
A planner can assist with logistics and ensure everything runs smoothly.
Musician or DJ
Consider whether you want live music, a DJ, or a playlist for your ceremony and any post-ceremony celebration.
What is a London officiant?
A London officiant is an individual who is authorized and qualified to perform wedding ceremonies in London, England. They play a crucial role in solemnizing the marriage and ensuring that the ceremony is conducted according to legal and cultural requirements.
Religious Officiants
These are clergy members, such as priests, ministers, or rabbis, who can perform religious wedding ceremonies according to the customs and traditions of their faith.
Civil Officiants
A civil officiant, also known as a civil celebrant or registrar, is a government-appointed individual authorized to conduct non-religious, civil marriage ceremonies. They ensure the marriage is legally recognized.
Celebrants
They can’t legally get you married. You can hire one after you are legally married and have the ceremony you’ve always dreamed of.
How to choose the right one?
Choosing the right officiant for your wedding is an important decision, as they will set the tone for your ceremony and play a significant role in your special day.
The first thing you need to do is determine the type of ceremony you want. Have a conversation with your partner about your values and beliefs. If you share a faith, consider having a religious officiant.
If you want a specific theme for your elopement, with just a few friends and family members, and you already tied the knot in front of a civil officiant, you can go for a celebrant and have the elopement you’ve always wanted.
Search for a celebrant with whom you feel a personal connection. You should trust them to help create a meaningful and memorable ceremony. Ask about their beliefs, prices, and level of customization of the ceremony.
Best places to elope in London
London is filled with stunning landmarks that can become witnesses to your elopement. Also, the venues here are magnificent, whether we’re talking about lush gardens and parks or luxurious hotels and other venues.
First, you will need to decide which is your approach to this important event. Do you want a place that is full of greenery or a fancy place with grandiose decor? To help you set up your mind, we compelled a list with some of the best locations for your elopement in London. Check it out below!
Hyde Park
Hyde Park, one of London’s most famous and expansive Royal Parks, offers a fabulous and natural setting for outdoor weddings and elopements. While Hyde Park itself does not host formal wedding venues, you can have a beautiful outdoor ceremony in various locations within the park.
Kew Gardens
Kew Gardens, also known as the Royal Botanic Gardens, offers a stunning and enchanting venue for weddings and elopements. Located in southwest London, Kew Gardens is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its diverse plant collections, glasshouses, and natural beauty. Kew Gardens offers several distinctive venues for weddings and elopements, including the Nash Conservatory, the Orangery, Cambridge Cottage, the Princess of Wales Conservatory, and the Temperate House. Each venue has its unique charm and can accommodate different guest capacities.
Syon Park
Syon Park is an exquisite and historic venue located in West London. The focal point of Syon Park is Syon House, a stunning stately home with grand interiors and an opulent ambiance. Syon Park features the Great Conservatory, an architectural gem with an abundance of natural light, making it an excellent choice for a ceremony or reception.
Barbican Conservatory
The Barbican Conservatory is a unique and enchanting venue located in the heart of the Barbican Centre in London. It is a hidden gem and a popular choice for couples seeking an unconventional and atmospheric setting for their elopement or intimate wedding.is a tropical oasis with a stunning array of plants, trees, and exotic flowers. Its lush greenery and vibrant colors create a magical place for your ceremony.
Asylum Chapel
The Asylum Chapel, also known as the Caroline Gardens Chapel, is a unique and captivating venue for intimate elopements and weddings. The venue is renowned for its stunning architectural features, including soaring ceilings, arched windows, and distressed walls, creating a sense of grandeur and romantic decay. The chapel’s minimalistic interior allows you to customize the decor and style of your elopement to suit your preferences, whether you prefer a traditional, vintage, or contemporary theme.
The Old Marylebone Town Hall
The Old Marylebone Town Hall features beautifully decorated ceremony rooms, such as the Westminster Room, where civil ceremonies take place. You have the option of having an outdoor ceremony in the venue’s charming and photogenic gardens.
Chelsea Physic Garden
The Chelsea Physic garden is one of the oldest botanical gardens in London, dating back to the 17th century, and offers a range of spaces within the garden, including the Main Lawn, Garden of Edible and Useful Plants, and the Conservatory, allowing you to choose the one that best suits your style and guest count.
Other locations you should consider for your elopement in London: Victorian Bath House and The Gherkin. If that’s not enough, here is an additional list of the best places to take pictures in London.
London elopement photographer
London is home to so many skilled professionals, so you’ll have to make sure the one you hire will deliver the photos you’ve dreamed of. A great London elopement photographer is able to take great quality images, can capture heart-warming moments when no one is looking, or make you feel comfortable during the entire event.
To make sure you know exactly what points to check, follow this guide:
Freezes in time personal moments
During the event, your London elopement photographer is a constant presence that captures all the heart-warming moments between you and your husband, family, and guests.
His goal is to snap the shots while the event unfolds naturally, capturing kisses between you and your husband, tears of joy, smiles, and laughter, or the connection you have with your family and significant other.
A professional photographer knows when to take the shots. They can precisely position themselves to document your elopement’s unique story with beautiful and heartfelt images.
You’ll Have Gorgeous Portraits from Your Elopement
A London photographer has a unique ability to craft exquisite portraits that truly reflect the essence of your love as a couple during your elopement.
With a clear understanding of the city’s character and its locations that are suitable for such an important event, they are skilled in capturing the genuine connection and emotions between you.
These portraits go beyond the ordinary; they tell everyone your love story! Once you’ve received your final, edited images, all that remains is to frame the best pictures and hang them on your wall.
The Photographer Will Capture the Love You Have For Your Family!
A skilled photographer can capture not only the cherished moments between the couple but also the heartwarming family portraits.
On one of life’s most important days, including loved ones in your London elopement photos is a must. These portraits become cherished mementos for you and your family.
Creates a Comfortable Atmosphere
You will probably meet your professional photographer on your elopement day so it’s crucial for them to possess a relaxed disposition and an easy-going approach.
This way you will experience a high level of comfort throughout the entire event, feeling relaxed around them, creating effortless interaction.
Familiarity with Hidden Gems
A great London photographer is well-acquainted with London’s secret spots. They can help you escape the crowds and experience a unique and intimate elopement while capturing the city’s beauty.
They can propose locations you’ve never heard of and help you create memorable moments and images in places you don’t see all over Instagram and Pinterest.
Shows Off your Personality!
Our elopement photographers will capture the essence of your personality during your elopement. Through their lens, they reveal the unique qualities that define you and your partner, celebrating your individuality and the beautiful connection you share.
Their keen eye for detail, combined with an intuitive understanding of your character, results in images that reflect your authenticity. From candid moments of laughter to tender exchanges of affection, a skilled photographer preserves the subtleties and nuances that make your love story exceptional.
These images become a timeless reflection of your true selves, adding depth and emotional resonance to your elopement memories.
That Gown Deserves Detailed Pictures!
We’re sure you invested a lot of time and energy researching online and visiting stores to find the perfect gown and matching shoes for this big day. And it would be such a shame to not have images with all these important details, right?
Such pictures highlight the timeless beauty of your wedding, from the delicate lace on the bridal gown to the elegant floral arrangements. These details narrate the story of your love and commitment, adding depth and richness to your cherished memories.
With precision and artistry, a professional photographer transforms every detail into a work of art that you can admire for years to come.
CELEBRATE YOUR ELOPEMENT WITH BREATHTAKING PHOTOS
Allow us to capture the real you and create memories that you will cherish forever.
Your Life is a Present!
London elopement videographers
What’s an elopement without a video that captures the atmosphere of your important day, right?
Hiring a London elopement videographer is essential for capturing all the fun moments from your intimate ceremony.
A skilled professional preserves the emotions from the moments you speak your vows, the laughter, and joy that surround you during this magical moment. They will help you keep alive the depth and beauty of your love story for generations to come.
Looking perfect for your elopement in London: Makeup and Hair
Who doesn’t want to look their best for their wedding or elopement? Every bride in the world who’s marring the love of her life wants to feel beautiful, be seen, admired, and in the center of attention. After all, it’s your magical day! So getting a makeup and hair professional is a requirement if you want to look special.
Also, hiring makeup artist and hairdresser for your elopement in London can significantly enhance your overall experience and the quality of your photos.
Look your best! A makeup artist knows best how to match the colors and provide a high-quality makeup that not only transforms you into a princess but also lasts the entire day. Also, they use professional products and will help you highlight your best features and at the same time, look flawless in videos and pictures.
Best Makeup Artists and Hair in London
Makeup Artist: Kelly Down Bridal
You will leave Kelly Dawn’s makeup salon not only with a flawless makeup but with loads of information on how to keep your skin healthy and glowy. She knows how to work with your features and add personality to a natural makeup.
Hair: Viktoria S. Toth
Viktoria wants every bride to feel special, admired and radiant on this special day. She has a cozy studio in north London where she offers consultations and does luxury hairstyles.
More London makeup artist recommendations.
Bridal Flowers and the Bouquet
Selecting the perfect bridal flowers and bouquets for your London elopement is a thoughtful process. These floral arrangements hold great symbolic importance and are essential elements of your wedding, enhancing your overall look and contributing to the aesthetics of your venue.
Bridal flowers, including the bouquet, have played a significant role in wedding traditions for centuries. They symbolize love, beauty, and the promise of new beginnings.
Your bouquet will be at the center of attention!
When choosing the right flowers and bouquet for your London elopement, several considerations come into play. First and foremost, you should consider the season. Selecting blooms that are in season during your elopement not only ensures their freshness but can also be more budget-friendly. London offers a wide variety of seasonal flowers, from the delicate charm of spring blossoms to the rich hues of autumn florals.
The color palette of your bouquet should harmonize with your wedding theme, personal style, and the location’s ambiance. London’s diverse floral offerings can accommodate an array of color choices, from classic whites and pastels to bold, vibrant tones.
The size and shape of the bouquet should complement your wedding dress. Whether you prefer a compact posy, a cascading waterfall of flowers, or something in between, London’s skilled florists can craft the perfect arrangement to match your vision.
Consider the symbolism of the flowers you choose!
Each bloom carries its own meaning, allowing you to infuse your bouquet with personal significance. Whether you opt for roses to symbolize love, lavender for devotion, or daisies for innocence, your bouquet can tell a story.
You may also want to incorporate local flowers or those specific to London, embracing the city’s identity and character. This lends an authentic touch to your elopement, connecting you to the city’s natural beauty.
Adding a personal touch to your bouquet, such as a family heirloom or a small charm, can be such a fabulous idea.
In London, you’ll find a wealth of florists and flower markets. They can guide you in selecting the most fitting flowers and crafting a bouquet that resonates with your style, and your love story.
Musicians for your London Elopement
London, a city renowned for its rich musical heritage and diverse music scenes, provides loads of options for elopement events.
Live music sets a particular vibe that recordings simply cannot replicate. From the moment you exchange vows to your first dance as a married couple, live musicians can set the atmosphere that you need, creating an unforgettable experience for you, your partner, and your guests.
One of the most remarkable aspects of having musicians at your elopement is the ability to personalize your soundtrack. You can handpick songs that hold special meaning to your love story.
London’s musical scene is incredibly versatile, offering a wide range of options to suit your musical preferences. From classical ensembles to contemporary soloists, string quartets, jazz bands, or folk musicians, there are plenty of musicians to choose from.
Hire an elegant classy car
If you want to arrive at your wedding in style, then you should definitely consider renting a car! The comfort and privacy of a luxury car add an element of exclusivity to your celebration. It will definitely be a jaw-dropping moment!
Rolls Royce Ghost
The Rolls-Royce brand is synonymous with opulence and quality, making it the perfect choice for an exceptional, intimate celebration.
Classic Beauford open-top limousine
This timeless vehicle exudes romance and sophistication, providing a unique and memorable experience as you embark on your journey as a married couple. Also, its open-top design allows you to embrace the scenic beauty of London.
Wedding cake
There can’t be a wedding without a cake, right? It is one of the most anticipated moments of the event and it comes with loads of traditions. In the UK, the couple should cut together the first piece of cake as a sign of love and unity.
You want your cake to be as memorable as the ceremony, party and outfits. So scroll down to discover the best ideas for your sweet dessert.
Traditional London wedding cake
Fruit cakes have long been associated with weddings due to the rich symbolism they carry. And even royalties embrace the tradition of having a fruit cake at their wedding. From Queen Victoria, who had an English Plum cake the tradition carried to Prince Charles and Kate Middleton, who chose a giant cake with vanilla, and fruit fillings
Top wedding cake designers in London
GC Couture
GC Couture create luxury wedding cakes for prestigious hotels, and venues. They create a culinary sensation with delicious flavors and rich designs.
IsobelBakes
Isobel is a cook who specializes in wedding cakes and works closely with couples to achieve a unique dessert for their memorable day. Her trademarks are represented by seasonal blooms that adorn the cake.
How to pick my wedding dress?
First of all, you want a dress that makes you feel comfortable. You don’t need a dress that looks extravagant but it’s too tight so you can’t even walk. Moreover, choose a dress that looks good in pictures. To help you select your gown for your elopement in London, check out these recommendations.
Choose a dress that works with your body shape!
The most flattering dress will depend on your body shape. A-line and ballgown silhouettes are generally universally flattering. However, you should choose a dress that accentuates your best features and minimizes any areas you’re less confident about.
Pay attention to necklines!
The neckline of your dress can greatly impact your appearance in photos. V-necklines and sweetheart necklines tend to be very flattering. They draw the eye upward and create an elongated neck, making you look taller and slimmer.
Consider the back!
If you want your dress to look beautiful from all angles, pay attention to the back. Low backs, illusion lace, or open-back designs can create a stunning visual impact in photos.
Think about the details!
Beads, lace, and embroidery can add depth and texture to your dress, making it more visually interesting in pictures. However, don’t go overboard. Sometimes, simplicity is the most beautiful.
Consult a Professional!
A bridal consultant or stylist can provide expert guidance on finding the perfect dress that suits your style and photography aspirations.
Moreover, you should think if you want a veil or not. If you are planning to buy a dress, think about transportation and if you have time to get it steamed and ironed before the event.
On the other hand, it is important to know what you’re doing with the dress. Are you only wearing it for the elopement or planning to go around the city to take pictures of various landmarks? It will inevitably get dirty and it will need dry cleaning.
Can I rent a wedding dress in London?
Yes, you can also rent a gown from London and not worry about transportation. There are loads of places that have a large variety of designer and luxury dresses. Remember that these can be very busy during the wedding season so make sure you previously booked an appointment.
Here are just a few places where you can rent a wedding dress in London: Catherine Deane and Ronald Joyce International.
London hotels – Where do we stay for our elopement?
You want your elopement to be the experience of a lifetime, so the hotel you’re choosing should have something special, as you will remember this trip for the rest of your life.
It also can be the same hotel you’re holding the elopement party, so it has to be luxurious and with a unique charm. We definitely think that the hotels below can meet your preferences so check them out:
The Ritz London: The Ritz is an iconic luxury hotel known for its elegant rooms, stunning decor, and exceptional service. It’s a perfect choice for a lavish elopement.
The Savoy: Another legendary hotel, The Savoy offers a central location along the River Thames, beautifully designed rooms, and world-class dining options.
Claridge’s: Known for its timeless elegance, Claridge’s is a popular choice among couples seeking a romantic and luxurious experience in the heart of Mayfair.
The Langham, London: This historic hotel boasts Victorian charm, spacious rooms, and a perfect location for exploring London’s cultural landmarks.
The Connaught: A 5-star hotel in Mayfair, The Connaught offers a unique blend of luxury, style, and discreet service.
Shangri-La at The Shard: If you’re after breathtaking views, this hotel in the iconic Shard skyscraper is a great choice. The rooms offer panoramic vistas of the city.
London wedding Lunch and dinner ideas
If you are planning your elopement in the morning, then after the party ends you can go and grab lunch, just the two of you, and reminiscence about the moment. If you are getting married in the afternoon, you can celebrate with a romantic dinner.
And London is the best place to find tasty food because the city has no less than 74 restaurants with Michelin stars. But of course, today you just want the best of the best, so you might want to pick one of these 5 restaurants that have three Michelin stars:
- Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester
- CORE by Clare Smyth
- Hélène Darroze at The Connaught
- Restaurant Gordon Ramsay
- Sketch (The Lecture Room & Library)
Don’t forget to make a reservation as you might not find a free table if you don’t book it in advance.
Eloping in London offers a captivating blend of tradition, opulence, and contemporary charm. Careful planning, the selection of top vendors, and the perfect dress will ensure your elopement is a momentous occasion.
Whether you’re envisioning an intimate ceremony in a charming chapel or a grand celebration in a luxury hotel, London offers endless possibilities to fulfill your elopement dreams.
Your elopement photographer will capture the magic of the moment, while professional vendors will handle every detail. An elopement in London allows you to focus on the love and connection you share, leaving you with cherished memories that will last a lifetime.