As a London (UK) Wedding Planner, it was a pleasure and an honour to be involved in the planning of Rosie and Tom’s beautiful wedding at Kew Gardens. Kew Gardens is a world heritage site and hosts a number of spectacular locations for weddings from the iconic Nash Conservatory, the magestic Temperate house and the light and airy Cambridge Cottage which was the setting for this wedding.
CAMBRIDGE COTTAGE
Also known as the Art Gallery of Kew due to it’s collection of art displayed throughout the property, and formally a Royal residence, Cambridge Cottage is spacious and light, full of heritage features. Weddings at Cambridge Cottage are always special; set within it’s own private corner of Kew Gardens, couples are guaranteed a completely exclusive day.
As local residents, Kew Gardens was the natural choice for Rose and Tom when choosing their wedding venue. As London Wedding Planners it’s always thrilling to work at so many wonderful venues but few are as iconic and sought after as Kew Gardens, London UK. The ceremony took place in the Drawing room, adorned with beautiful flowers from Mary Jane Vaughan. Rosie walked down the aisle to ‘Amsterdam’ written by Gregory Alan Isakov and played by the Colorado Symphony Orchestra and Bridesmaid Katie sung Love You For a Long Time’ by Maggie Rogers. Following the ceremony guests spilled out onto the grass in Dukes Garden and followed by Rosie and Tom. Rather than throw confetti, guests let off bubbles as the newly weds exited the Drawing Room. It was great fun and everyone was able to join in!
A TOUR OF KEW GARDENS, LONDON UK
During the cocktail hour, guests were invited to board the Kew Explorer which took them on a guided tour of the gardens. Many of the guests had flown in from the USA so the chance to see some of Kew’s beautiful buildings and stunning landscapes was a real treat!
Once guests were back they enjoyed a spectacular three course Wedding Breakfast from Palette Events. Huge thanks to Matt, Mark and the team for delivering a five star service and being such a fab bunch to work alongside. After dinner, Ashley from Prelude events had all the guests up to dancing to some of Rosie and Tom’s favourite songs. We also had the incredible Greg from the Photo Booth Guys keeping guests entertained with his range of props and possibly the best ice cream I have ever tasted from The Ideas Box. A very special mention to Jess and Annie, the team who look after Cambridge Cottage, for being such a pleasure to work alongside and of course to Mark Bothwell who captured the day so beautifully.
Thank you for being exactly who I needed to help us with our wedding! Everything was so appreciated and your being there really allowed me to relax and know that everything was going to go as planned. Tom and I are incredibly happy with how everything went, we actually got to enjoy our wedding day.
CONSIDERING A WEDDING AT KEW GARDENS?
Here are the elements you should always consider.
Venue and Layout
When considering getting married at Kew Gardens in London, one of the first things to consider is the venue and layout. Kew Gardens offers a variety of stunning locations for both ceremonies and receptions, including the Nash Conservatory, the Temperate House, and the Orangery. Each of these venues has its own unique charm and can accommodate different guest numbers. It’s important to visit these spaces to get a feel for which one best suits your vision and the size of your wedding. Additionally, think about the flow of your event; consider where guests will arrive, how they will move between different areas, and where key moments like the ceremony, reception, and photos will take place.
Seasonal Considerations
Kew Gardens is beautiful year-round, but the time of year you choose for your wedding will greatly influence the atmosphere and available flora. Spring and summer are particularly popular for weddings due to the abundance of blooming flowers and lush greenery, which can provide a stunning natural backdrop for your photos and events. However, autumn and winter weddings can also be incredibly romantic, with the changing leaves and the possibility of a crisp, festive atmosphere. Be sure to consider the seasonal weather and how it might impact your plans, including the need for indoor or sheltered spaces in case of rain.
Logistics and Transportation
Another important factor to consider is logistics and transportation. Kew Gardens is located in Richmond, London, and while it is relatively accessible by public transport, you will need to think about how your guests will get there, especially if they are coming from various parts of the city or from out of town. Offering a shuttle service from central locations or nearby hotels can be a thoughtful touch. Additionally, consider the parking facilities at Kew Gardens for those who may prefer to drive. Planning these details in advance will ensure a smooth experience for your guests.
Catering and Menu Options
Kew Gardens offers exclusive catering services, which means you will be working with their selected caterers to design your wedding menu. It’s essential to discuss your preferences, dietary requirements, and budget with the catering team early on. The venue’s caterers are experienced in creating exquisite menus that complement the elegant surroundings of Kew Gardens. Whether you’re dreaming of a formal sit-down dinner, a casual buffet, or a series of elegant canapés, make sure to arrange tastings and consultations to ensure the food and drink offerings align perfectly with your vision for the day.
Permits and Restrictions
Lastly, be aware of the permits and restrictions that come with hosting a wedding at Kew Gardens. As a historic and protected site, there may be specific guidelines regarding decorations, music, and other aspects of your event. It’s crucial to understand these restrictions early in the planning process to avoid any last-minute surprises. Work closely with a wedding planner at Kew Gardens, who can provide detailed information on what is allowed and offer suggestions for how to creatively work within the guidelines. This will help you plan a beautiful and compliant wedding that respects the unique environment of Kew Gardens.
LONDON WEDDING PLANNER
When it comes to planning a London wedding, having a skilled and experienced London wedding planner by your side can make all the difference. Şenel Besim Event Design is a renowned London-based wedding planning service that would be honoured to assist you in creating the wedding of your dreams. Whether you’re envisioning a grand affair in the heart of London or an intimate celebration in a picturesque London venue, our team of dedicated London wedding planners are here to make your vision a reality. Enquire via hello@senelbesim.com
Photos by Mark Bothwell | http://markbothwell.com/
