Micro Wedding at Chelsea Town Hall, London
Steph and Brad stopped postponing and just got married. Chelsea Town Hall, their kids, a first look by the harbour and Albert Bridge lit up at dusk.
A micro wedding in London wasn’t how I pictured finishing my 2020 season. But then, nothing about 2020 went to plan.
It was a hard year for every couple trying to get married. Spring weddings moved to summer. Summer moved to autumn. Then guest numbers dropped to 30, then 15, with masks, distancing and no evening party. Some couples rebooked for 2021, some for 2022. Some had to cancel altogether, because of illness or a change in circumstances. That was really upsetting to watch.
And some decided to just go ahead and get married anyway. That’s where the “micro wedding” came from.
Steph and Brad
Steph and Brad had planned a big wedding with all their family and friends, booked for September. Under the pressure of ever-changing rules, they postponed. Several times.
In the end they worked out what really mattered. Getting married. With or without all the glam.
In a few weeks they pulled together a wedding at Chelsea Town Hall. Instead of everyone, they invited only their children and partners. Nobody else knew until afterwards.
My first COVID wedding
I’ll be honest, I was a bit apprehensive. With all the rules in place, I walked in with no expectations, ready to take the day as it came.
They were both getting ready in the same apartment at the Chelsea Harbour Hotel.
Once Brad was ready, I suggested a first look. He waited for Steph down by the harbour, where he’d see her in her dress for the first time.
A walk to the bridge
I was only booked for the ceremony and a few family photos. But I wanted it to feel a bit more special. So I suggested a short walk to Albert Bridge, for some fresh air and to see it lit up.
Most people out that day were stocking up before the next lockdown, with doom and gloom in the air. And there were Steph and Brad, walking down a London street in their wedding clothes with huge smiles.
Cars slowed down. People shouted congratulations. I really think they gave everyone who passed a little spark of hope and normal life.
In their words
I asked Steph and Brad a few questions afterwards.
Why Chelsea Town Hall?
“Weirdly, a small wedding at Chelsea Town Hall was actually our original plan (before I got carried away with the big fancy wedding). We liked the idea of getting married there as Brad was born in Chelsea and we both love a stroll along the King’s Road on a sunny Sunday afternoon.”
Your advice for couples planning right now?
“Number 1…..focus on what is important to you and your fiancé and don’t worry about everyone else. These are unusual times that we’re living in and your friends and family will love you and support your decisions whatever they may be. Number 2……don’t stress, it’s not worth it! As long as you get married to the man or woman that you love none of the other stuff matters!”
Why did you choose Latzo?
“The deciding factor was feeling like we could be relaxed around our photographer and after my initial meeting with Latzo I knew straight away that he was the one for us. We really can’t recommend Latzo highly enough….he is professional, enthusiastic, really friendly and extremely talented at what he does! Best of all you forgot he was even there most of the time (which is brilliant for two people that hate having their picture taken!)”