These two lovers tied the knot in one of the most unique ceremony spots in London.
Crumbling paintwork, holes in the ceiling and a long and troubled history. No, we're not talking about our old local. We're describing Asylum Chapel, in Caroline Gardens, one of the quirkiest, and most romantic wedding venues in London. A venue that this year played host to our lovely bride, Amy, for her wedding to Ben.
Built in 1826, Asylum Chapel is a Grade II listed building that was bombed during the 2nd world war, but previously housed the Licensed Victuallers Benevolent Institution. It is a space that has been through many incarnations, and disruptions through the years. And each of these major events can be seen in the layers of history that litter the walls. It is a truly unique wedding venue, and it was the ideal backdrop for our stylish couple, Amy and Ben. A pair who fell in love with the space from the moment they laid eyes on it.
Owing to the mysterious, whimsical nature of the wedding venue. Amy needed a dress for the day that felt ultra-dramatic, romantic and a little magical! And we think she nailed it! Evangeline from Étoile was the perfect choice. With its sultry off-the-shoulder straps, mermaid silhouette and delicate embroidered lace throughout – we cannot not think of a dress that suited this occasion better.
The Wedding of Amy & Ben at Asylum Chapel in London
Today, we're so pleased to be sharing a couple of pictures from the wedding of Amy and Ben at Asylum Chapel. Along with a few words from our bride about her experience tying the knot, and finding the dream dress at Bellissima!
How did you two meet?
Back in 2013 via friends planning a holiday to Ibiza.
How did you get engaged?
We were meant to get engaged on NYE in Brighton at the Grand in 2020. But, the area went into tier four at the last minute, so it quickly became a Christmas morning proposal, with our 2-year-old under the Christmas tree as my partner was too nervous to wait any longer!
What was your favourite moment(s) from the wedding?
There are so many!
— Walking down the aisle and seeing everyone’s faces smiling back at me.
— Taking our red double-decker buses through London, and over Tower Bridge was a moment. It was incredible to have everyone in the street taking pictures of us, or waving and tooting their horns, as I was standing by the door.
— Dancing to our gospel choir with all my friends to Higher Love by Steve Winwood.
Tell us all about your wedding dress. What details do you love, how did it make you feel?
My wedding dress was the complete opposite of what I'd thought I’d pick, but the moment the veil went on, I knew it was 'the one'. It was a mix of classic, sexy and whimsical. A look that I knew would work great in our venue. The off-the-shoulder detail and nude bodice was so pretty too.
What was the general decor for your big day?
Our ceremony venue itself (Asylum Chapel) was so striking, we needed very little in the way of decor, which was great for our budget! We kept it simple by decorating the space with candles, eucalyptus plants, and fairy lights. At such a statement place, with that derelict, gothic vibe, it's best to let the venue do the talking!
Our reception was at The Counting House Pub, a huge grand old pub in the city with dark wood panelling, rusty books, ancient murals and pretty chandeliers.
Do you have any advice for future Bellissima Brides?
Many have probably said the same before, but keep an open mind. Trust the assistants to guide you in the right direction, (they know their stuff!) step away and think before committing and then once you’ve decided, don’t worry about what anyone thinks. You will know it’s the dress for you
Do you have any local suppliers you would like to recommend?
Florist – @briarandbracken
Wedding Entertainment – @gospelokeofficial
How was your Bellissima experience?
Where do I start!? I said to my mum following my first visit to try on my first dress, that I wanted to find my dress at Bellissima because the end-to-end service was just a pure delight. Everything I’d hoped for when looking for a bridal gown. The attentiveness and support every step of the way made me feel so special, and if I could come back and start the whole process again, I would be there in a second!
A huge thank you to Amy for choosing her wedding dress with us, and we wish both her, and Ben every happiness in their future together.
Laura & the girls xx