Featured, Real Brides

Real Bride: City Chic

This wedding celebration was black tie, city chic and we cannot wait for you to see how fabulous the couple is. Amelia and Roddy got married in a winter wonderland last December in none other than the Gherkin in London. The Rime Arodaky dress that Amelia chose for the day reflected her style and perfectly matched the glamour of this modern venue!

Tell us a little about yourself

My name’s Amelia and I’m a surgeon working in London. My husband Roddy works in finance and we both live together in South-West London. Roddy grew up in North London but I’m originally from Somerset. 

How did you meet your groom?

We actually met in 2020 on a dating app called Bumble. Roddy always makes a joke that I had to make the first move! 

What’s your engagement story?

It was a cold and wet December day and Roddy suggested we go for a walk in Richmond park. It’s our favourite park in London and we go most weekends. Despite the weather, we braved a quick walk and Roddy proposed under a tree. It was a really special moment shared just between the two of us (and one or two inquisitive deer!)

How did you come across The Mews?

My mother-in-law had been there before and found a beautiful dress for another family member so recommended the store to me. As soon as I walked into The Mews studio in Notting Hill I knew I would find my perfect dress, it’s such a beautiful place!

What styles were you channelling whilst dress shopping?

I really had no idea on the style that I wanted when I first started looking at dresses. Our wedding was black tie and in December so I knew it had to fit with the theme. I was looking for something classic and elegant and I fell in love with the Lison dress by Rime Arodaky. 

Tell us about finding your perfect wedding dress

As soon as I put the dress on I knew it was the one and my mum cried! I couldn’t wait to wear it on the wedding day. The team at The Mews Notting hill were amazing and so helpful with every aspect – I can’t thank them enough! 

What did your groom wear?

Our wedding was black tie so he wore a traditional black tie suit, dress shirt and bow tie from Roderick Charles. 

What advice would you give to a bride about finding the perfect dress?

Go in with an open mind and try on different styles, you may be surprised once you try on the dresses! It’s also important to think about the practicalities of the dress – try sitting down and dancing in it to see how it feels. You’ll want to feel comfortable on the day.  

Where did your wedding day take place? 

We got married at the top of The Gherkin in London. It has amazing views over London which look extra special at night. The team at Searcy’s were so professional and a pleasure to work with. 

Tell us about your aesthetic for the day – were there any themes or inspiration behind this?

As it was a December wedding, we wanted a winter wonderland theme with lots of candles, sparkle and lights. We had a huge Christmas tree which made an appearance in most of our photos! The bridesmaids wore dark green which fitted the theme perfectly and the table decorations were silver, gold and white. We had black tablecloths and napkins which made the decorations pop. 

What was your favourite detail of the day?

When it was dark, all the fairy lights and candles reflected in the glass windows and ceiling, it felt as if we were in a winter wonderland – it was magical! We had previously only visited the venue in the light so hadn’t appreciated this detail until the wedding day. 

Words of wedded wisdom?

Enjoy every moment of your special day, it really does go by so quickly! You will have lots of friends and family members to talk to but try and find a bit of time for you, your husband and a glass of bubbles! 

Are you planning a honeymoon, if so where are you off to?

We left the day after our wedding to go on our honeymoon. We went to South Africa and visited Cape Town, the wine regions and ended with a safari. It was an amazing experience and so fun to go straight after the wedding! 

Venue: The Gherkin

Event planner: Shelley-Ann Rowe (Searcy’s at The Gherkin)

Dress: Lison by Rime Arodaky from The Mews Bridal

Make up: Fliss Jenkins (glamandglow_byfliss)

Hair: Nicole at Toni & Guy 

Photographer: Chris Giles

Band: The Function Band

Violinist: Rachel Somerset 

Wedding car: London Corporate Cabs

Lighting: Halo Lighting 

Table décor: Brides own