The Bride Guide

FOR THE GIRLY-GIRLS: Ella May London

“Every bride wants to be as pretty as a princess on her big day, and for the sweetest of feminine dresses, Ella May is your go-to. The designer trained at Chanel for six years before making her foray into bridalwear, and her bespoke gowns are utterly charming – all lace, chiffon and delicate floral embroidery – yet young and contemporary too, and trying on her designs was a joy. Ella aims to craft a gown that will reflect the bride wearing it, and after its special moment, she’ll shorten, refit and dye your design so your precious gown is transformed into a ‘forever’ party dress.”

FOR COOL-GIRL CLASSICS: The Own Studio

“From the minute I met Jess and Rosie in their chic, King’s Cross atelier, I knew I’d found the designers to create my dream dress. The duo behind The Own Studio offer a gorgeous range of ready-to-wear gowns, while their bespoke service is beyond special – everything is made to measure, working with luxe fabrics sourced in Italy and France. Jess and Rosie take the time to listen to your vision, drafting beautiful pencil sketches and inspirational mood boards galore, so you really feel you’re part of the design journey. The results are a heaven-sent blend of classic and contemporary – unfussy, timeless and breathtakingly beautiful.”

FOR THE ECO-CONSCIOUS: The Loop

“I’ve often thought it sad that the most beautiful gowns of our lives get worn once then stored away for years, perhaps to be discovered by a granddaughter or maybe never worn again. So the increasingly popular and ethical concept of preloved bridalwear is one I’m firmly behind – and The Loop offers the best of the best. Think gorgeous gowns by Roksanda, Erdem and Jenny Packham; this is where you can find your dream dress at a fraction of the original price. Besides offering their curated edit of luxury designer pieces, founders Grace Richmond and Abi Gadsby also offer styling, tailoring and customisation services, to ensure the original preloved dress becomes 100% your own.”

FOR A TRADITIONAL TAKE: Emma Victoria Payne Bridal

“Central Saint Martins alumnus Emma Victoria Payne fell in love with the elegance of vintage silhouettes and bias-cut styles while working in Paris. She knew she wanted to create gowns which captured that feminine, romantic feel, and her Beauchamp Place boutique makes such dreams a reality. Whether you choose a design from her ready-to-wear collection or a bespoke creation, all EVP gowns are made to measure and include toile fittings to ensure a perfect fit. The results are chic, classic and beautiful beyond belief.”

FOR FASHION FOLK: Emilia Wickstead

“Here at Collagerie, we’ve always been huge fans of Emilia’s runway collections and occasionwear, and often feature her designs in our curations. So I guess it’s no surprise that I’ve fallen in love with her elegant bridal collection, too. Sculptural and simple yet quietly stand-out, each design in her bridal offering has that timeless and graceful EW spirit. There’s no froth or frou-frou to these exquisitely crafted dresses, just clean lines, perfectly tailored silhouettes and gowns of the utmost beauty. They’re elegance epitomised.”

FOR ART DECO DESIGNS: Delaval Knight

“This is the jeweller we chose and I’m absolutely thrilled with my ring – I still get goose-bumps every time I look at it! Del specialises in art deco styles; all his rings are completely bespoke and feature intricately hand-cut stones to suit the design. After explaining my vision to Del, we went to meet him in his studio and he’d had a stunning watercolour depiction of the design drawn to scale, which sold me completely – not to mention becoming a precious keepsake of my bridal journey.”

FOR A CLEAN & CLASSIC LOOK: Whitelaw Gold

“After 5 years in the industry Sophie Whitelaw decided to take the leap into a solo career. Her atelier is fairly new to the scene and a wonderful find for those seeking competitively priced pieces in an often overwhelmingly expensive market. Sophie herself is involved in every step of the design, so it becomes a very personal process, and the resulting engagement ring feels uniquely your own.”

FOR LAB-GROWN GEMS: Kimai

“Ethically-minded couples will be drawn to Kimai by its message, ‘Made, not Mined’, which instantly signals the brand’s Earth-friendly ethos. Everything is made to order, and designs range from classic solitaires to ultra-modern creations, but it’s the fully transparent process that sets their rings apart. As Sidney Neuhaus and Jessica Warch (founders of this B Corp Certified label) explain: ‘Our pieces are crafted from 18kt recycled gold and lab-grown diamonds. High-quality, low-impact and fully traceable – it’s that simple.’”

FOR A MODERN MOMENT: Hattie Rickards

“Bespoke jeweller Hattie has been on my radar for many years. Whether remodelling vintage jewels or creating striking designs for special occasions, every piece she delivers is a standout. Her engagement rings are bold and brilliant, and what I love most is that she works closely with each couple to include personal talismans in their design, creating a unique and intimate ring with a romantic story to tell.”

FOR A VINTAGE VIBE: Lily Vanili

“It goes without saying that Lily Vanilli cakes are delicious, but they’re also playful and witty, with a kitsch-meets-chic vibe. The perfect choice for those throwing a cool, London-based wedding, this creative company promises to deliver an attention-grabbing cake that you could gaze at for hours, were it not for the fact it will be wolfed down in seconds!”

FOR A TRADITIONAL TAKE: Dotty Rose Cakes

“If you’ve always dreamed of a classic, white-iced cake, wreathed in beautiful flowers, then this is the place for you. Practiced in the art of baking for large weddings, with tall cakes built in multiple tiers, Dotty Rose creations have a timeless beauty – think cakes so elegant, it almost feels like sacrilege to cut into them – but don’t worry, you’ll forget your reluctance the minute you take your first bite.”

FOR PIPING PERFECTION: Made By Nez

“Searching for something a little different? A cake as chic as it is tasty? Look no further than South-London-based Made By Nez. Inspired by a love of ’70s and ’80s cake design, Nez adopts a traditional style with a modern colour palette, which has made her the cool girl of caking-making. She is known for her decorative details and over-the-top piping, as well as her range of flavours, and she works hard to deliver a finished product that suits the couple, creating a cake as unique as you are.”

FOR ORGANIC FLAVOUR SENSATIONS: Violet Bakery

“Run by food writer and stylist Claire Ptak from her bakery in East London, for a small business Violet Bakery has developed a huge reputation, thanks to the mouthwatering delicousness of its cakes. With 18 flavour combinations to choose from, the cakes are baked using organic ingredients, and decorated with flowers from Claire’s local florist, though she will happily work with your florist to match the cake to your overall wedding aesthetic. Tasteful designs that taste divine… what more could you wish for!”

FOR MAKING A STATEMENT: Lucy Vail

“Creativity clearly runs in Lucy’s family as her sister Anna founded Balu London, one of Collagerie’s Marketplace homeware brands. Now Lucy has become the name to know in floristry. Her award-winning studio is renowned for ‘bringing the outside in’ transforming your wedding venue – be it a grand house or a garden marque – into a botanical wonderland. Her bouquets are inspired by the delicate forms and textures of the blooms themselves, yet somehow reflect your character too, creating floral designs that are uniquely personal and utterly unforgettable.”

FOR ETHEREAL ELEGANCE: Kitten Grayson

“Thanks to over 20 year’s spent training and working with some of London’s top florists, Kitten has gained vast experience and a committed fanbase devoted to her uniquely bohemian floral designs and the ethereal quality of her work. Connecting with you throughout the entire design process, Kitten and her team will craft an immersive botanical wonderland, encouraging your guests to step from the outside world into a magical Midsummer Night’s Dream of a wedding.”

FOR ARTFUL ARRANGEMENTS: WORM London

“If you’re looking for something creative and sculptural, WORM is the florist for you. They’re a Collagerie favourite; we’ve used them for events and set designs, and they match the brief so beautifully. Their arrangements are rich with colour, and have an artful, architectural air to them, but at the same time they feel wild and natural, as if they’ve literally burst up from the soil to decorate your table. The effect is always utterly dazzling – with WORM you are guaranteed true stop-and-stare florals!”

FOR THE FASHION-FOREWARD: Flowerbx

“The fashion world’s favourite florist, Flowerbx blooms are regularly spotted in magazine shoots and runway shows, and the company is fast becoming the go-to for fashion-forward nuptials too. Launched by Whitney Bromberg Hawkings, formerly of Tom Ford, the brand built its name on striking, single-variety floral bouquets. Broadening the concept, its wedding installations work within a single palette, instantly elevating the surroundings. From button-holes and bridal bouquets to stunning floral arches, every aspect will be show-stopping.”

FOR COLOUR LOVERS: Hannah Hunnam

“Lovers of colour and wild, naturalistic blooms will adore the floral creations of Norfolk-based Hannah Hunnam. She’ll work closely with you and your partner, sourcing locally grown flowers to conjure a romantic backdrop to your wedding, whether it’s an intimate affair or a grand ceremony. As Hannah herself explains: ‘From little hand-tied posies for flower-girls, to buttonholes, flower-crowns, table arrangements and beautiful hanging installations, each aspect is created with my love and attention.’ Words as beautiful as Hannah’s blooms!”

FOR CANDID BUT CLASSIC SHOTS: Rosie Kelly

“Choosing Rosie to shoot my wedding had nothing to do with her fashion credentials (she’s been voted Elle’s top wedding photographer multiple times, and there’s no denying her images have a beautiful editorial feel). Rather, I fell for her candid approach to capturing nuptials. Forget stiff family groupings that take hours to get through, Rosie is swift and unintrusive when she shoots, making the whole photo process as quick and painless as possible. Which means me, my by-then husband and my guests will be free to get on with enjoying the day, safe in the knowledge we’ll receive beautiful and emotive images with which to remember it.”

FOR AN AUTHENTIC APPROACH: Jessica Williams Photography

If you’re looking for true romance from your wedding photographs, Jessica should be on your radar. This London-based creative captures images with a truly authentic vibe, so when scrolling back through the shots, you feel like you’re there all over again. From wedding vows to giggling bridesmaids and stolen moments between bride and groom, she doesn’t miss a thing.”

FOR FEEL GOOD VIBES: Charlie Dailey

“Before launching her career as a wedding photographer, Charlie spent 15 years as a TV camerawoman, so she really has perfected the art of capturing the moment. During the build-up and on the day, she establishes a great rapport with the couple and their guests, putting everyone at ease. The end result is joyful, playful and celebratory photos which capture all the happiness of the day.”

FOR A CINEMATIC FEEL: Alli Studio

“A favourite of Vogue Weddings Magazine, Alli Woods’ images have a breathtaking beauty – equal parts romantic and passionate, lively and carefree. It’s as if she’s a fly on a very chic wall, capturing the couple’s big day in shots that are both intimate and yet have a glossy-magazine glamour. Little wonder she’s the go-to photographer for influencers, stylists and chic brides the world over.”

FOR MAGICAL DETAIL: Fin Fellowes

“I’ve been a fan of Fin’s work since she created the most beautiful invitation for a Collagerie x La DoubleJ event, and the word I’d use to describe her illustrations is ‘magical’. With very little guidance she will conjure a gorgeous visual story, whether it be for your invitations, placements or menu. She personally handles all projects, from conception to execution, and is fanatical about details – hand-mixing inks for the perfect calligraphy, hand-stitching booklets, even hand-dying ribbons for the final flourish. The result is something truly personal and a wedding heirloom to treasure.”

FOR CALLIGRAPHIC CREATIONS: Ruth Kaye Design

“‘Romantic and feminine’ sums up the work of this design house. It’s an intimate family-run business, with Ruth’s daughter Sophie now at the helm, committed to working closely with each couple. She’ll ensure your vision is reflected in every element, from elegantly worded invitations to pretty little placements, and the resulting paintbrush calligraphy and charming illustrations capture all the beauty and joy of the moment.”

FOR PERSONALISED POLISH: Polly Crossman

Polly’s whimsical illustrations ensure your commission will have a uniquely personal touch – one that captures you and your partner to a T. I particularly love the maps she creates, which not only guide guests to the venue but include quirky details inspired by the couple. From ‘save the date’ cards to invitations and menus, Polly’s delightful designs become loving keepsakes for you and your guests.”

FOR FLORA FAUNA: Linden Illustration

Jasmin Ryan, the Welsh-based artist behind Linden Ilustration, crafts illustrated gardens to decorate the loveliest of wedding details. Her work is colourful, dainty and delicate, with each hand-painted design immersed in nature. But there’s more to her romantic imagery than flora and fauna. Jasmin and her team take time to get to know you and your ideas, so the finished results are as personal as they are pretty.”

FOR THE CHIC AND UNIQUE: collagerie.com

“Naturally, Collagerie was my first port of call when it came to creating a wedding list… and not just because I love working here. Brimming with inspirational ideas, from chic homewares to lifestyle buys, you’ll find furniture and furnishings, tech treats and exceptional artworks. In other words, a cornucopia of cool and colourful delights. Perfect for design-lovers in search of the unforgettable, Collagerie is your go-to for statement gifts – each one a unique reminder of your unforgettable day.”

FOR THE CHOICE: Prezola

“For sheer choice, it’s hard to beat Prezola. Its list of quality brands is infinite – from big names to under-the-radar artisan makers – and it offers a world of premium products, for bed, bath, kitchen and home. You can also set up a wedding fund or add travel experiences to your list – an idea I adore. In short, Prezola delivers everything newlyweds could possibly need – be it practical or playful.”

FOR A PERSONALISED EXPERIENCE: The Wedding Present Co.

“In addition to their online wedding-list service, The Wedding Present Co. boasts a beautiful showroom on the Kings Road and a team of knowlegable staff, allowing you to enjoy that traditional experience of visiting, looking at and selecting the items that catch your eye. They’ll even curate a list for you, filled with designs they think you’ll love, which is a huge help when presented with such unlimited choice.”

FOR BRAND CONNOSSEURS: The Wedding Shop

“With its exceptional service and three decades of experience, it should come as no surprise that The Wedding Shop has won multiple awards. Offering a dream wishlist of brands, from Maison Margaux to Nkuku, the store will assign you a Gift Guru to guide you through the process, suggesting helpful ideas and guiding you through its selection stylish products. Best of all, it offers full (but discreet) flexibility to swap gifts at the end: naughty but sometimes necessary!”

FOR A MENU INSPIRED BY THE SEASONS: Spook

“Spook describes itself as a “purveyor of the delicious and the tasty,” and I couldn’t have put it better myself. Beloved by the fashion world, it has catered events for the likes of Prada, Vogue and Loewe. But don’t let its fashion-focused resumé scare you away from an intimate celebration. At its heart, Spook is all about quality seasonal, sustainable food and drink that will uplift everyone present. What more could you possibly want for your wedding.”

FOR HOME-COOKED FARE: Posie Hall

“Posie is a favourite at Collagerie, thanks to menus that are fuss-free and filled with the sort of delicious food you actually want to eat. The young, London-based chef trained in Somerset before working throughout Greece and Ibiza, Switzerland and India to develop her unique and tasty dishes. From savoury to sweet she hits the spot and I guarantee your wedding guests will depart with bellies as full as their hearts!”

FOR PASTA PEOPLE: Archie’s Food

“When I suggested I wanted pasta at my wedding, the look I received from multiple caterers was one of fear and confusion. So it was a delight to discover William Deal of Archie’s Food, who responded with such positivity. When he talked me through the menu he has planned, I was instantly transported to Southern Italy, my mouth watering at his delicious suggestions. Naturally I’m looking forward to many parts of my special day, but the wedding breakfast conjured by Archie’s food has to come close to the top!”

FOR THE AESTHETES: Peardrop London

“Based in West London, this luxury events caterer always creates a stir. Renowned for its beautiful plating, the exquisite spreads it creates are a delicious assault on the senses – thrilling both your eyes and your palette alike. Peardrop is especially sought-after for its canapés – its Spaghetti Carbonara in canapé form will literally blow your mind – while its bigger dishes look like edible works of art. This is definitely one for gourmet brides.”