Every bride to be is obsessed with the special details of the wedding day – and the most special of them all has to be the dress. Oh, and making sure it fits correctly and looks as flattering as can be. Then there’s the bouquet. Actually, there are a fair few important details but, luckily, Connaught Village (conveniently located above Hyde Park and a short walk from Marble Arch) can help you perfect each and every style choice – and it has the chicest cafés where you can mull things over.
From visiting the best bridalwear boutiques, to seeing fabulous flowers and discussing amazing alterations, my day at Connaught Village was both inspirational and emotional, in the best possible way. Every person in every store was a true delight and this haven of independent, high-end shops with carefully curated pieces is an unmissable destination to begin your wedding day journey.
Tell us a little about your wedding plans so far.
We’ve been planning for a very long time as we’ve been engaged for 13 years! Initially, we planned to get married on the beach barefoot with just the two of us and have a huge party afterwards, but our plans changed. Having children, buying a home and a (huge) renovation got in the way and now we want to get married in London – that’s where we met, and it’s going to be magical with the children present. An intimate winter wedding, perhaps.
What inspired you to explore Connaught Village as a bridal destination?
I love to explore and support independent boutiques and Connaught Village is just that. Each store was unique and offered a personal experience, which I really enjoyed.
How would you describe Connaught Village to someone who’s never been?
The village has a really lovely community feel about it. Just a short walk from the hustle and bustle of Marble Arch, and you’re met with a charming, calm atmosphere. I was greeted with huge smiles from strangers and received lots of compliments on my outfit from people passing – it really made my day! The staff were so attentive and made me feel relaxed and comfortable and, most importantly, it felt diverse and not overcrowded either. I loved it.
Which places did you visit in Connaught Village?
Hair on Kendal – A lovely spacious salon with really friendly staff. I had an incredible blow dry by Murat who was so lovely, listened to what I wanted and delivered the results, all with a smile – I would definitely come back. The perfect hair appointment.
Boxcar Bread & Wine – The pastries here are to die for. It’s a cosy, comfortable café offering the most delicious fresh pastries and artisan bread with a delightful lunch menu, too. The corner location is the perfect place to stop for a coffee or glass of fizz and chat wedding plans. Tip: I had the yuzu and blueberry muffin, which just melted in my mouth.
Also, Boxcar is just a stroll away from Marylebone Town Hall – so if you’re saying your vows there, you could book this beautiful space as an intimate wedding venue. It holds 40 seated guests and 80 standing, and the fantastic team here can whip up bespoke menus and sumptuous styling with your input.
PM Flowers – Simply one of the most beautiful London florists I have visited. You’re welcomed with a sea of stunning, vibrant bouquets and the smell of freshly cut, high-quality flowers. I was totally captivated by the choice on display and can’t get over how exquisite the flowers are – especially the roses. I would be very happy to have my bouquets made here.
I love how the bridal stories presented here were all different and offered varying styles, budgets and themes for each bride.
Bridal Rogue Gallery – The window display here filled me with excitement, and I knew there would be a lovely mix of styles from classical to traditional, elegant to contemporary. The rails are adorned with an array of luxury designer brands with a silhouette for every bride to be.
I have to admit that I had a moment when I walked out in my first dress! I was overcome with emotion at how utterly beautiful the dress was, and the realisation hit me that this is how I could possibly look on my wedding day. The team here are charming and friendly, and made my whole experience so comfortable and fun. I loved it.
Love Story London – What a great name for a wedding boutique, as all of us shopping here have a love story – and I loved how aesthetically pleasing and effortless this boutique is with its minimal design. If you’re after something a little more modern with a twist in the realm of affordable luxury, then this is your store. Firstly, Millie, who manages the shop, is amazing. You are instantly drawn to her kind, friendly smile and it’s easy to tell she loves her job and knows her customers very well. This combination will make your experience the best it can be. I was so impressed with Millie and the styles she recommended. I instantly fell in love with the way brides can mix and match the different tops and skirts with a base to create a unique outfit that elevates their wedding look. I felt so inspired, beautiful and happy with everything I tried on – and, indeed, I may have found ‘the one’!
Eliza Jane Howell – This is your go-to, one-stop-shop for everything fabulous and glamorous: embellished gowns, sparkly beaded and feathery creations, and gorgeous accessories. It’s the perfect shop for any dress occasion, which the mother of bride will love too. It’s certainly a treasure trove I could lose myself in. The standout piece for me, is a sequin burgundy Chinese-inspired dress I would wear for the tea ceremony part of the wedding day. It’s stunning, and a piece that can be worn again for another occasion. I absolutely loved this boutique for its warm, friendly service and ravishing mix of evening wear.
Thimble and Threads – I honestly wished I lived nearer to this amazing store, entirely dedicated to alterations, as I would visit Zahra every day. As well as the fact I always need alterations, she’s such a joy and her warmth is infectious (and as I used to sew myself, seeing the machines is nostalgic for me). Zahra has more than 40 years’ experience in tailoring and alterations, so I would trust her with any amends I needed.
What advice would you give to other brides exploring Connaught Village?
I would definitely book the appointments in each store beforehand and allow at least an hour or two in each. Start your day with a prosecco and pastry with your bridal team and just go and have the best time. Oh, and bring tissues and your make-up to touch up as there will be tears! It’s so emotional, so much fun and incredibly exciting. Enjoy it.
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