Creating the Perfect Royal Wedding Setting

I have rejoiced in the national enthusiasm for the forthcoming Royal Wedding. I really feel that there is nationwide wedding fever and it is wonderful to have something that we can all look forward to and smile about.

Consequently there is undoubtedly a renewed interest in weddings from the media and also speculation about what goes into planning a wedding, and more so, a royal wedding.

There are obviously certain protocols that have to be honoured when planning a royal wedding - the obvious one is the obligation to use only UK suppliers.  A royal wedding is expected to be the epitome of all that is British and so this is reflected in the choice of menu, flowers, wedding attire, transport and the wedding ceremony itself.

The setting for these huge occasions is usually a Royal Palace which, aside from being appropriate, are amongst the few venues available that can host such an extensive guest list.

To create the perfect royal wedding setting, you could first choose a wedding venue that has some royal connection such as Banqueting House or Kensington Palace. The grandeur, beauty and royal association these venues offer make for an impressive and interesting setting.

Royal banquets ordinarily are laid out as long tables, called Sprigs. The top table is a long one running horizontally and the sprigs are set off from this vertically. This is a very traditional way of seating your guests, but not the most practical space wise (you can often fit more people into a room by seating them at round tables) and also not the most social in that guests can only really speak to the person either side of them. Keep this in mind if you are contemplating this set up.

April offers a host of British spring flowers - fragrant and glorious in their colour. Choosing all spring flowers will lend a beautiful scent to your setting. Adding herbs lends greenery, a variation in texture and yet more scent!

Dining on British cuisine is perhaps not as unexciting as some people may initially anticipate! Spring Lamb, Eton mess and Pimm’s are all popular for wedding menus. Serving Pimm’s at your reception dressed with fresh mint and fruit I always feel looks instantly festive.

A horse and carriage is quite a ‘regal’ mode of transport, but we also have an array of wonderful classic and vintage cars that are quintessentially British and a most stylish way to arrive at your wedding.

Ultimately, your wedding should be styled around the two of you and embrace all that you like. A nod to your heritage or the country in which you are hosting your celebration is a stylish way to enhance the day.

Article by London Based Wedding Co-Ordinator Siobhan Craven-Robins

Images Courtesy of –

Kensington Palace – Flickr by Stevecadman

Table Arrangement – Nikki Holland

Pimm’s – Flickr by MrB-MMX

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