London Destination Wedding, UK
Camilla & Frankie
Planning a Winter Wedding in the city of London
Winter weddings have an inherent magic, a romantic chill in the air that makes everything feel just a bit more enchanting. As an experienced destination wedding planner, I’ve had the privilege of orchestrating many beautiful celebrations around the world, but Camilla and Frankie’s candlelit wedding at Clapton Country Club stands out as a quintessential example of why I love what I do.
When Camilla and Frankie first reached out to me, they had a clear vision: a warm, intimate, and elegant winter wedding but knew they needed our guidance. As Camilla put it, “Back when I started wedding planning, I had an overall vision of what I wanted but quickly got overwhelmed.” Their dream was to create an atmosphere that felt like stepping into a romantic winter wonderland, with the sophistication of a London wedding and the cosy, intimate feel of a candlelit gathering.
The Ceremony
The journey began with the ceremony at the Council Chamber Room at Town Hall Hotel. This Grade II listed venue, with its Art Deco furnishings of polished oak and fine leather seating, provided the perfect setting. A soft winter afternoon light illuminated the room as guests arrived, creating a magical ambiance that set the tone for the day.
Camilla’s choice of a Halfpenny London dress was nothing short of perfect. The elegant design complemented the modern, wild, and organic floral installation we created. Bringing a sense of the outdoors in, the flowers added a touch of whimsy and nature to the refined surroundings. As Camilla walked down the aisle, it was clear that every detail had come together flawlessly.
After the ceremony, the couple travelled in a charming white London taxi, while their guests enjoyed a nostalgic ride on an old-fashioned red bus to the reception venue, Clapton Country Club.
The Reception
Clapton Country Club, with its storybook interior built from reclaimed and recycled materials, was transformed into an urban retreat filled with ambience. The venue, a former tram shed, retained its industrial finesse while oozing charm and warmth. It was the perfect backdrop for an east London wedding.
As guests entered, they were greeted by an utterly romantic, candlelit affair. Over 150 candles illuminated the room, casting a warm, inviting glow. We used Diptyque candles to fill the air with a heavenly scent, enhancing the overall experience. The tables were draped with soft linen and minimalist stationery, and clouds of gypsophila hung from the ceiling, creating a dreamlike atmosphere.
Camilla’s testimonial captured the essence of the evening perfectly: “Walking into our reception venue - it took my breath away. I literally felt like I was standing inside my mood board!” The careful planning and attention to detail ensured that the couple’s vision was brought to life in every aspect.
The dinner was a highlight, with the candlelight creating an intimate and romantic setting. Guests dined in the warm glow, enjoying hearty food and drink. Camilla and Frankie’s guests were treated to an unforgettable evening, complete with espresso martinis next door while we reset the dining room for dancing.
Transforming the space from a dining area to a dance floor was no small feat, but my team managed it in record time. A full production band followed by a late-night DJ kept the energy high and the dance floor packed. As Camilla noted, “Emma seamlessly got on board with the vibe of the day and brought some amazing suggestions to complement them which took our day to the next level.”
Capturing the Memories
One of the unique elements of this wedding was the use of both digital and analogue photographers. The couple loved the timeless quality of film photography and the clarity of digital images. This combination ensured that every moment was captured beautifully, providing a stunning visual narrative of the day.
Reflections
Planning a London wedding, especially in the winter, comes with its own set of challenges and rewards. The weather can be unpredictable, but for Camilla and Frankie, November brought amazing weather, adding to the magic of their day. The key to success was meticulous planning and the ability to adapt and innovate.
Camilla’s words reflect the importance of having a skilled London wedding planner: “Simply put, I couldn't have done it without her, and if you are considering booking Emma you will not regret it! She literally made our dreams come true.” It’s feedback like this that makes all the hard work worthwhile.
Camilla and Frankie’s winter wedding at Clapton Country Club was a testament to the power of thoughtful planning, creative vision, and flawless execution. As a London wedding planner, my goal is always to bring my clients' dreams to life while ensuring they enjoy every moment of their special day.
From the stunning ceremony at the Town Hall Hotel to the candlelit reception at Clapton Country Club, every detail was curated to perfection. The result was a day that surpassed all expectations, leaving the couple and their guests with memories to cherish for a lifetime. For anyone planning a London wedding, remember that the magic lies in the details, and the right planner can turn your vision into a breathtaking reality.
Design, Styling and Planning | Emma Jane Weddings
Digital Photographer | Joanna Bongard
Analogue (film) Photographer | Emmylou Kelly
Videographer | Emmylou Kelly
Venue | Town Hall Hotel
Venue | Clapton Country Club
The bride wore | Halfpenny London