We were invited to stay in one of the world’s most iconic hotels and, to be honest, excited was an understatement! Having recently stayed at the Dorchester Collection’s Coworth Park (see our review here), and have loved every second of it, to be visiting The Dorchester, queen of the Dorchester Collection, was simply a dream. I’d been to many events at The Dorchester, but this was the first time we had dined and stayed there, and we were in for a treat.

A firm favourite for celebrities through the ages, it was a wonderful feeling walking through the doors into the same space that Elizabeth Taylor had breezed through for her ‘White Diamonds’ perfume launch, and I wondered which suite it was that Louis Armstrong had famously stayed and played his trumpet in.

There is so much luxury history associated with the place and escorted to the Dorchester Suite, I wanted to take in all the beautiful details. Sinking into the plush, colourful, soft carpets is divine and the beautiful antique vases and ornaments make the hotel truly unique.

The Suite

Through an impressive door, we found our suite. At 124m², there’s plenty of space, and it is used to its fullest potential! The parquet flooring in the lobby leads you in and I was struck by the breathtaking view directly out onto Park lane, with Hyde Park in the distance; a classic London views from the most luxurious room. More gorgeous ornaments adorned the coffee table and we sank into the beautiful plump grey sofa, gorgeously soft and inviting, especially on a grey and rainy bank holiday weekend. There was no reason to venture out, so we stayed and enjoyed our little slice of Dorchester luxury.

The suite has a really good size dining table – perfect for hosting an intimate family dinner, a hen party or just getting ready on the morning of your wedding. An impressive fireplace and plenty of comfy seating would make this a really good space for a little get together.

The bedroom featured one of my favourite hotel beds; a four poster with an exquisite silk canopy, the softest linen and pillows you simply sink into. I don’t usually sleep with three pillows, but trust me, you would definitely make an exception for The Dorchester’s cloud-like pillows. With plenty of space for reclining on the chaise longue and a beautiful writing desk, the room was calm, relaxing and elegant. And I could spend hours just whiling away the time curled up in the bedroom’s window seat, people-watching from a comfy, peaceful nook.

A beautiful white marble-clad bathroom held a sunken bath, apparently the deepest and fastest filling in London, and acute Dorchester duck and wonderful Dorchester toiletries tempted us to try it out!

Of course, the Dorchester Suite comes with a butler, who is on call to tend to your every need. We heard that requests have ranged from sourcing the best seats at football matches to find a dog breeder! Whilst we didn’t have any similar requests, I was quite tempted to ask them to call a few of the luxury fashion houses they have on speed dial to do a bit of after-hours shopping… Selfridges, Harvey Nichols and Liberty are well used to calls from The Dorchester. We made do with the fresh apples from an orchard in Devon and the delicious chocolate lollies that he brought as a lovely treat.

Dinner

Our dinner was at The Grill, a marvellous restaurant of metallic and hand blew glass, and one of six places to eat. We went down early to soak in the atmosphere and watch the hotel transform seamlessly from day visitors to glamorous evening guests.

The Grill’s menu fuses classic flavours and exquisite ingredients with new and modern cooking, and the décor definitely fits the theme. The restaurant was established in 1931 and has undergone a few makeovers in its time. The most recent see it decked in zinc and copper, with pivoting panels to take it from daytime dining tonight, and an amazing hand-blown glass chandelier, which is simply stunning.

The service was polite, friendly and attentive, and starting with a gorgeous salmon taster dish we enjoyed Dorset crab with lemon and basil mayonnaise, gorgeous slices of bread and the most epic cottage pie I have ever tasted. The meat had been marinating for 20 hours and topped with rich, cheesy mashed potato, was like being hugged from the inside, so warm and comforting, a perfect antidote to the drizzly grey streets outside.

The talented sommelier made excellent wine recommendations for the courses, and we were then treated to a plethora of desserts which arrived at our table! A gorgeous lemon meringue tart and a grapefruit parfait were accompanied by a pretty chocolate lacework eggshell over a delicious chocolate creation as well as a mint and chocolate delicacy. Very decadent and almost too pretty to eat… almost…

Tea, coffee and petit fours completed our meal and we took the opportunity to take a little wander around the hotel before we made our way back to our suite and the wonderful turndown service. Lavender and chamomile spray for the pillows and slippers by the bed, I didn’t need more of an invitation to rest a weary head on three sumptuous pillows!

Breakfast

Breakfast was in The Promenade, a very grand area of the hotel with columns, gilding and marble, it’s rumoured to be as long as Nelson’s Column is high. Between us, we enjoyed avocado and eggs, a full English breakfast, sweet and savoury pastries and fresh fruit and juice, served by immaculately turned out waiters to the prettiest of tables. And then it was time to see the spa.

The Spa

On the ground floor, The Dorchester Spa is just as a spa should be; with blue walls and spring flowers, there’s an atmosphere of calm. Its white marble flooring and glittering chandelier set the tone for a perfectly relaxing morning as I was led through to the changing area and relaxation room. The spa has a wonderful steam room and rainforest shower – which I thoroughly enjoyed before heading off for a 60-minute aromatherapy massage with the lovely Roxana. White walls, relaxing lighting and a lovely calming environment made the massage like a true break from reality for those 60 minutes. Roxana was so caring and helped me choose the aromatherapy oils to relax and destress – perfect!

Sixty minutes went all too quickly, and I was ushered back to the relaxation room and a glass of coconut water and chocolate macarons along with a bag of treats to help continue the relaxation further!

Weddings at The Dorchester

After an incredibly soothing spa trip, it was time to find out more about a wedding at The Dorchester. Timelessly elegant and effortlessly glamorous, a wedding at The Dorchester is something special. From the grandeur of the Ballroom to the charming roof garden that hugs the Penthouse and Pavilion, you’re guaranteed a fairytale wedding.

The Ballroom

With 1930s Art Deco glamour, The Ballroom has its own private entrance off Park Lane. Crystal chandeliers and sweet Murano glass birds set against a white gold leaf ceiling – truly exquisite, it took my breath away. For a cocktail reception, this space can accommodate up to 1000 guests, but a more classic dinner dance wedding reception set up would limit you to 432.

The Crystal Suite

The Crystal Suite has its own sweeping staircase which reaches down to a private lobby as well as large windows which let natural light flood in. Beautiful crystal pendants throw light throughout the pretty space. This room can accommodate 50 for a dinner dance set up, but up to 120 for a cocktail reception.

The Penthouse and Pavilion

If you’re after something a little different, why not host your wedding up high? There’s more than a little theatre about this suite, based on the enchanting tale of Sleeping Beauty. The room’s baroque style was designed by theatrical designer Oliver Messel, creating a delightful, intriguing space and the roof terrace adds so much charm with water fountains and views over London. Perfect for intimate weddings of up to 34 guests.

The Orchid Room

Inspired by Wedgewood china, the pale blue hue of this room is so delicately elegant, it’s a perfect calm and private spot away from the main hotel areas. Catering for 120 for a dinner dance, it can cater for up to 250. Hung with crystal chandeliers amongst the iconic Wedgewood inspiration, it’s a stunning room, almost like a wedding in a beautifully elegant teacup!

Park Suite

If you want to follow in the footsteps of royalty, the Park Suite is the place to celebrate. It was here that Prince Philip held his bachelor party on the eve of his wedding, with the very same mural still hanging in place all these decades later. Catering for up to 50 for a classic wedding set up and up to 100 for cocktails, this room overlooks Hyde Park and benefits from gorgeous natural light.

The Dorchester has its own in-house floristry team, tailor making flower displays and taking care of all your floral requirements. They also have a vast knowledge of every type of entertainment you could wish for, with some high profile names on their contact list, so your wedding would definitely be one to remember.

Such a gorgeous hotel, it’s completely evident why it is so iconic. Exemplary service, full of sublime luxury and an opulent history, I’m so glad I’ve been able to experience a piece of The Dorchester. Thank you for our wonderful stay!

THE DORCHESTER, LONDON

The Dorchester
53 Park Lane, Mayfair, London W1K 1QA

Tel +44 (0)20 7629 8888
Email info.TDL@dorchestercollection.com

If you want one bloom that always looks considered, photographs beautifully, and elevates every arrangement, it’s the rose. Here are our favourite ways to style them.

The bouquet

Whether you go all rose or weave them through peonies, ranunculus, dahlias, or seasonal foliage, roses bring shape and softness to a bridal bouquet. Choose generous, opulent garden roses for that couture feel, or keep it sleek with long-stem roses for a modern silhouette. For flower girls, tiny rosebuds are adorable, classic, and easy to hold.

The floral crown

A floral crown always makes an entrance. Go bold with larger blooms and glossy greenery, or keep it refined with a slimmer halo, using vines, willow, and a few perfectly placed roses. They look gorgeous with polished updos, soft waves, and modern textured styles. And yes, a single rose tucked behind the ear still works every time, sweet, simple, and photo-ready.

Centrepieces

Roses can do minimal or maximal, effortlessly. Clustered in low bowls, they feel modern and intimate, while taller arrangements bring drama and height to the room. Mix sizes and open stages for texture, and consider tonal palettes (like blush through to dusty rose) for a look that feels curated, not busy.

Arches and walls

A rose arch or floral wall creates instant wow. If you find a natural rose arch at your venue, walk through it; it frames your ceremony and your photos in the most elegant way. If you’re building one, tailor it to your theme, airy and asymmetrical for a modern look, or full and abundant for classic romance. A rose wall also doubles as a gorgeous backdrop for portraits, champagne moments, and guest selfies.

We don’t think there’s any flower quite as romantic as a rose. But if you’re choosing different blooms, head to our florals page for more inspiration.

Gorgeous couple L&H were after a vast, informal yet super stylish event to celebrate with friends before the big day. The August wedding was to take place in the countryside of Catalonia, and they wanted a pool party with views of the sea.

The beautiful weather made the setting even more spectacular, with a gorgeous white modern Mediterranean Masia overlooking the ocean and a fantastic infinity pool.

Gorgeous, fabulous, fresh lemonade greeted guests arriving from all over the world, including Egypt and the UK.

A whole host of food choices was created—salads, olives and cheese, delicious healthy juices, and an impressive main feature that the guests just loved!

The venue was totally personalised, with long tables in the shape of an L and H – their initials – laid out. Mediterranean-themed decorations created the perfect atmosphere, with olive leaves, lavender, rosemary, and wildflowers, as well as lots of candles and seasonal fruits.

Guests really loved the incredible variety of delicious, vast paellas!

The Spanish sunset was truly spectacular, and a magical atmosphere was created for guests by DJ Ramy DJunkie, from Egypt.

The Live Experience Show was a highlight of the night, performed by Micah (violin), Ruben Moran (saxophone) and Manuel Moore (electric guitar). Flown in from Ibiza for the pre-wedding party, this trio delivered a magical show!

A truly magical evening and an extraordinary celebration!

Suppliers:

Food and Drinks – Ester Conde / Flowers – La Floreria / Photography – Manel Tamayo / Videography – VisiondPelicula / Furniture – Nuovi Piatti / Venue – Masia Casa del Mar

Valtueña IS A TRUSTED MEMBER OF 5 STAR WEDDING DIRECTORY.

VISIT Valtueña’s PROFILE

Timelessly romantic and creating unrivalled memories that last a lifetime, Brocket Hall’s ‘Lord and Lady’ Wedding Breakfast ensures each couple’s vision surpasses their dreams as they tie the knot with exclusive use of the grandeur of the Regency Hall.

Effortlessly mesmerising guests from the very moment they first arrive, the Brocket Hall estate is one of the most romantic settings for wedding ceremonies. Couples can share the most special day of their lives amongst the whispered walls full of intrigue and refined elegance with exclusive use of the truly captivating hall, its magnificent bedrooms where Queen Victoria herself stayed, the Prime Ministers dining table and the picture perfect 543-acre grounds. Additionally, promising for an unforgettable celebration, a personal wedding planner will ensure each couple orchestrate the wedding they dream after; catering for wedding parties of two up to 200 guests.

Crafted with lovers of history and elegance of the bygone era in mind, guests can witness some of the most pivotal moments and characters of English history. On arrival to the Regency Hall, a champagne and canapé reception will unfold the magic, as couples begin their own story of British elegance.

Set amongst the sumptuously decorated hall finished with fine paintings and a spectacular ceiling, guests can take a seat for a four-course bespoke wedding breakfast at the Prime Ministers dining table, seating up to 54 people whilst overlooking the panoramic views over the Broadwater Lake. As the evening draws in, guests can congratulate the newlyweds with a toast of champagne as they savour on a handpicked selection of evening food.

Brocket’s Hall wedding planner will be on hand to ensure the most magical and unique of days. All will be taken care of from the very start, from decorating the hall to finer details including personalised menus, place cards and table plans as well as the all-important finishing touches and flowers throughout the Morning Room and Drawing Room. Coupled with an impeccable and attentive five-star service, a wedding at Brocket Hall promises a day that runs smoothly from start to finish.

There to be explored and discovered by guests, the Estate’s grounds are home to two championship golf courses, croquet on the lawn, a pianist, harpist, magician, fireworks and a florist to make the special day even more memorable.

The enchanting estate is available to accommodate the size and scale of almost any guest list, with three different locations and an extensive choice of rooms. The magnificent ballroom accommodates up to 150 guests, the boardroom up to 200 for an evening reception, whilst The Golf & Country Club hosts up to 120 guests offering world-class dining in the stunning Oak Room with picturesque views.

For more intimate affairs, the internationally acclaimed award-winning Auberge du Lac, is an idyllic restaurant housed over four floors to host up to 60 guests with a host of private dining rooms, a lounge and an alfresco terrace.

Located in the heart of the Hertfordshire countryside amongst inspirational parkland, a Broadwater Lake and two golf courses few other venues offer such a far-reaching and magical backdrop for any wedding day.

The ‘Lord and Lady’ wedding package starts from £29,500.

Price is based on hosting 54 guests at the prime ministers dining table, full use of the house including all 30 bedrooms and outdoors space, champagne and canapes reception, four-course bespoke wedding breakfast, evening food, house flowers, personalised menus, place cards, table plan and menu tasting for two.

For more information visit www.brocket-hall.co.uk.

We haven’t quite tired of this year’s Pantone colour of the year yet! Greenery is so fresh and versatile; there are countless ways to incorporate the tone into your beautiful wedding day.

One of our planners, Paolo Cicognani, recently created a gorgeous style shoot at The Abbey of San Pietro in Valle, captured by photographer Alessandro Mari and videographer Thomas de Lorenzo, and we couldn’t wait to share these amazing shots to spark some inspiration for you.

The Theme

Green chic style with an abundance of romance was the inspiration for the shoot, and the serenity and peace of the location definitely helped to achieve that. Beautiful harmony with nature, far removed from the stresses of life, the monastery and its panoramic gardens exuded a natural charm.

The Location

Walking through the panoramic garden at The Abbey of San Pietro, you’re greeted with incredible views over the valley that only improve with a beautiful Umbrian sunset. Fading lights blending with the landscape and disappearing behind the mountains – this really is a perfect wedding location.

The Decor

Fresh white lace made the green pop, with a natural wooden table from Apollinare Catering, complementing the natural wedding look perfectly. Fresh white chairs tied the decor together, matching the white tones and keeping the colour palette fresh, light and gorgeous! Gold-edged plates with matching cutlery were accessorised with beautiful hexagonal menus from Giulia Barabani, adding interest to a table with natural shapes and textures.

The Flowers

With a theme of greenery chic, the flowers by Paola Carletti kept with the concept. Pure crisp and clean white daisies, dahlias and rose blooms sat with delicate gypsophila and chamomile. Olive branches, green hydrangea, viburnum leaves and green foliage wrapped around the flowers to create a truly eye-catching display.

The Bride and Groom

The couple were immaculately dressed in outfits from Moda Sposi Atelier, with hair and makeup by Beatrice Pagnottini. Wearing a simple and elegant wedding gown, the bride’s Greek-style dress was heavily beaded with pretty, sparkling embellishment. The dropped neckline and matching back stretched to the sparkling waistband, and beautiful earrings and cuff bracelet from Euforia Bijoux complemented the outfit perfectly. A striking blue tuxedo provided a splash of colour to the day. A silver waistcoat and pure white silk tie lifted the ensemble and matched the silver tones in the bride’s dress beautifully.

The Cake

A greenery theme needs a gorgeous greenery cake, and this creation by Cinzia Maturi is the ideal centrepiece. With a simple topper and fresh flowers surrounding the wedding cake, a semi-naked option is a perfect choice for a natural wedding theme – the cake is as natural as the theme!

Suppliers

Planning & Design – Paolo Cicognani Weddings & Events / Venue – Abbazia di San Pietro in Valle / Photographer – Alessandro Mari / Furniture – Apollinare Catering / Flowers & Decor – Paola Carletti / Stationery – Giulia Barabani / Videographer – Thomas de Lorenzo / Jewellery – Euforia Bijoux / Wedding Cake – Cinzia Maturi / Hair & Make Up – Beatrice Pagnottini / Models – Alexandros & Eleonora from 4Upper Models / Bride’s Gown & Groom’s Attire – Moda Sposa Atelier

See our style and themes page for more wedding inspiration.

La Maltese Estate Villa: Against a topaz sky and velvet blue sea, the whitewashed facades of La Maltese Estate shine out like dazzling diamonds under a hot Santorini sun.

It was here that we enjoyed three glorious nights, soaking up the cool vibes and finding out what’s on offer for couples looking for a beautiful Greek island wedding.

Santorini

The result of a volcanic event over 3,500 years ago, the island of Santorini lies in the Aegean Sea, southeast of Greece’s mainland. Its Mediterranean climate keeps its summers hot and its winters far from freezing. It’s a fabulous spot for a picturesque wedding, with dramatic cliffs, cobalt skies and beautiful architecture.

The room

Our stay was at La Maltese Estate, and we were treated to a really good look around it. From the lobby you are given a stunning panoramic view of the sea, mountains and cliffs, it’s simply incredible and well worth taking a few moments to stop and enjoy. Rooms are lovely – clean, fresh and light. Ours had a door leading right out to the pool and more magnificent views.

Buddha-Bar Beach

Buddha-Bar Beach is set within the luxurious surroundings of La Maltese. One of the hottest spots on the island, it offers breathtaking views whilst you enjoy the world-renowned Buddha-Bar atmosphere and its gorgeous food and fabulous cocktails.

Music plays a big part of the Buddha-Bar experience, and DJs work throughout the day and night to provide the perfect soundtrack to your meal or drinks.

Food is top quality. La Maltese is right up there with absolute gourmet cuisine. Local fresh produce paired with local wines have to be the ultimate combination and with superb service and the most beautiful surroundings, this was definitely an experience to remember.

Weddings

La Maltese is beautifully equipped for weddings and they are passionate about them. It’s an idyllic setting that can be booked for exclusive use and can accommodate up to 200 guests.

You can book their villa, located in the original building of La Maltese, to host your wedding. Boasting private balconies, a terrace and a pool, it’s a gorgeous venue.

The Petit Villa is so charming and hosts four double bedrooms in addition to the main room, champagne lounge, terraces, patio and pool. If you need more bedrooms, the Grand Villa addition gives five further rooms, carved into the rock, facing the beautiful blue Aegean Sea and characterising traditional architecture.

The quality of service, the gorgeous vibes and exquisite food definitely made this trip one to remember. We can’t wait to come back!

La Maltese Estate Imerovigli

84700, Santorini Island, Cyclades Islands, Greece
Tel. +30 22860 24701 – Fax. +30 22860 24702
Email: info@lamaltese.com

La Maltese Estate is a trusted 5 Star Wedding Directory supplier. See their listing here.