Your London Wedding - July/August 2020 (Issue 72)

THE PERFECT SETTING – FROM HOME! After so many couples were struggling with wed-min during the coronavirus outbreak, the team at Queen Mary were determined to help. Couples can now tick off their to-do list from the safety of their own home in their pyjamas, with an immersive virtual tour with a wedding planner. The tour gives you the opportunity to explore the magnificent Grade II listed venue in the heart of East London, with lots of interactive material to help you experience what a special occasion would feel like. Dating back to 1888, The Octagon was the former library space within the university. Opened by Queen Victoria, the impressive three-storey domed ceiling above the book-lined shelves is one of the most beautiful historical backdrops in the city. With dates still available for 2021, it’s the perfect time to pop the kettle on and have a tour! Visit www.qmul.ac.uk/weddings All the latest from around the city NEWS Nearlywed DON’T STOP THE MUSIC The coronavirus pandemic has affected every single one of us, and for those of you who were planning a wedding for summer 2020 it’s been a particularly stressful journey to navigate. However, we have heard so many heart-warming stories over the past few weeks that have put a smile on our faces and reminded us why we adore the London wedding industry so much. We particularly loved hearing from DJ Dave B, who not only has postponed all his affected weddings free of charge, but he’s also been holding 10-minute live DJ sets for his couples on Zoom to give them a flavour of what’s to come. “It’s really lifted people’s spirits,” Dave says. Something else to smile about is that he is offering 15% discount on all new bookings over the next three months. Just send an enquiry on the website www.djdaveb.com RAISE A TOAST… A gorgeous bottle from the London- based Magnum Company makes a great wedding gift, or perhaps a postponement present to bring a little (or a lot) of joy at a stressful time. Find a range of wine and champagnes in these impressive bottles at https://themagnumcompany.com VIRTUALLY PERFECT Pan Pacific London is rethinking how celebrations will take place in this new reality we find ourselves in. Determined to keep the excitement going, in-house wedding expert Claire Bishop has curated a range of virtual consultations, new event formats and new ways to improve guests’ experiences. For 2021 weddings, Claire is available for virtual tours and planning meetings. Online dance lessons, hair and make-up tutorials, reviewing DJ sets, and chef consultations are just a few of the new virtual preparation services available. Adapting to regulations, the venue also has three large smart LED screens so guests can tune into weddings in the luxurious Ballroom from home. After the event, a staycation package is available for the newlyweds to celebrate their union. Visit www.panpacific.com YOUR ESSENTIALS 9