Did you say yes to a Valentines proposal? 

Did you get asked the big question over Valentines Day, and are you now starting to think about the day itself? It might seem daunting, but here Annabel Schwier at the Museum of London offers her insights into the four key elements you need to think about: the guestlist, venue, theme and catering. Annabel’s top tip? Keep it simple and planning will be a piece of cake!

The Guestlist:

First up, you’ve got to decide who you want to invite. Will it be a large wedding with lots of family and friends? Or will it be a more intimate affair with only a close, select group? This choice impacts everything from how much you have to spend to the venue you choose. London offers a wealth of wedding venues, ranging from supersized locations to more intimate options, to suit the capacity you require. At the Museum of London we are able to offer spaces for those with a smaller guestlist, such as the romantic Pleasure Garden, but also have access to the impressive Sackler Hall with capacity for 400 seated for dinner, which is ideal if you are inviting a considerable number of family and friends from around the globe. That’s also what makes London the premium choice for weddings with its status as an international hub with easy transport links for both local and international guests. 

The Venue:

As previously mentioned, the venue is synonymous with the guestlist and the size of your guestlist impacts your choice of venue. It’s not wise to hire a space that can fit 500 people when you are only going to have 50 people at your wedding. You should also consider whether you want to have the ceremony at the same place as your reception. Or do you want to keep these two aspects separate? If your chosen venue is licensed for weddings as the Museum of London Docklands now is, and you choose to have your reception in the same venue, liaise with the expert team to create a wedding journey throughout the day that meets your wishes and ensures a day to remember for everyone in attendance. See your venue as your blank canvas, the perfect opportunity to stamp your character over your day. Venues such as the Museum of London are equipped with advanced AV and DJ facilities, allowing you to unleash your technological creativity and create a bespoke backdrop for your big day. 

Theme:

The theme you choose for your wedding is important as it will dictate how you transform your venue into somewhere that perfectly reflects you and your partner. Will you go whimsical boho chic? Will there be a colour scheme? Or will you keep it quite traditional? Our expert wedding planners at the Museum of London have the advantage of working in an iconic historical venue and can help tailor your wedding to create an unusual, bespoke theme that ties into any aspect of the museum’s collection that resonates with you and your partner.  

Catering:

Last, but certainly not least, is the catering. Food and drink is a key aspect of your day, bringing your guests together in the spirit of conviviality. Whether you have ideas of your own, or would like guidance from the very beginning, your caterer will work with you to make sure your menu reflects your special day. London is one of the leading global cities for food, especially thanks to our multicultural fabric and influences. We take advantage of this melting pot of flavours and creativity with an extensive list of approved London based caterers who can work with you to create a menu bespoke to you and your special day, reflecting your theme, culinary tastes and vision.