patchmarketing_info, Author at Westminster Venue Collection

Meeting Room Hire in London’s Most Iconic Borough

Posted on 27th November 202427th November 2024 by patchmarketing_info

As a collection of leading, multi-purpose venues in central London, our members have a wealth of experience in creating unforgettable experiences for meetings and events. In this blog, we’ll share some of their expert advice to help you discover the very best meeting rooms in London.

Why Finding the Right Meeting Room is Critical

With an abundance of meeting rooms in London to choose from, finding and booking the right one can take a great deal of time, research and careful consideration. It’s a critical stage in your event planning process as the physical and aesthetic environment the meeting room provides can either enhance or detract from the tone of your event.

Whether you organise intimate board meetings, large-scale conferences, product launches or interactive workshops, there are several different factors to bear in mind when selecting a meeting room. The following considerations will help you find the event space best suited to your goals and the delegate experience you’re striving to create, which will ultimately impact your event’s success.

Location: is your preferred venue accessible and easy to reach for your invited guests, including people with physical disabilities or mobility issues? Look out for proximity to transport connections, as well as availability of nearby parking or convenient drop-off points. Within our portfolio, there are over 50 venues with meeting rooms in London, all conveniently situated within the City of Westminster with multiple nearby transport links.

Capacity: as well as choosing meeting rooms based on your delegate headcount, finding spaces that can be easily configured to suit the best seating format and layout is important. Will seating be theatre-style, classroom or boardroom? Will there be additional set-ups required within the room, such as catering and networking break areas, or branding zones for sponsors? Comfort is key for all participants, so this should be prioritised when making your selection.

Amenities and equipment: delegates have increasingly high expectations for the provision of fast and secure connectivity, as well as advanced technical equipment at events. When looking for a hi-tech meeting room, check if the amenities include hybrid event tech, video conferencing facilities, interactive display boards, seamless AV solutions and robust Wi-Fi.

Meeting rooms in 20 Cavendish Square — Meeting rooms at 20 Cavendish Square

Ambience: creating the right environment will boost productivity, encourage engagement, support collaboration and heighten the overall event experience. Everything from interior lighting levels and natural daylight to temperature control and views from your meeting room will have an impact.

Tips for Booking Meeting Rooms in London

With all the different factors to explore before making a final decision, it’s advisable to start the process as early as possible, especially if you have a fixed date in mind. If you’re short on time, using AI-powered tools and venue booking platforms will speed up the selection process, by researching, benchmarking and shortlisting options based on your brief and budget.

Once you’ve identified a selection of the most suitable venues based on your specific requirements, asking the following questions will help inform your final decision and aid your event planning:

London Meeting Rooms in 110 Rochester Row — Meeting Rooms at 110 Rochester Row

Costings: are venue hire, catering, AV and other ancillary event services charged for separately? Or are day delegate rates (DDRs) available and if so, what do these include? Is a deposit required? What are the terms for cancellation or date change flexibility?
AV: if this is offered In-house, what is the full specification of equipment available?
Catering: does the venue have an onsite caterer, or a list of external approved suppliers to choose from? Is it possible to bring in your own catering or preferred supplier if they aren’t on a recommended list?
Accessibility: your delegates may have a broad range of needs based on physical, Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC), sensory and cognitive requirements. While it’s important to ensure your preferred venue is fully wheelchair accessible, other key questions to ask include: is braille signage available? Can lighting easily be adjusted for people with sensory sensitivities? Is any assistive technology provided? If not, will the AV system and Wi-Fi support the use of personal electronic aids?
Health and Safety: what protocols are in place at the venue? This could include evacuation procedures, on-site First Aid provisions, health and hygiene guidelines, and what risk assessments, method statements, permits or other documentation is required? Is Security included in the hire fee?
Breakouts: are adjoining spaces available or are there other rooms located nearby that can be used for breakout activities such as catering, networking or working groups?

Elegant meeting rooms at One Birdcage Walk — Meeting rooms at One Birdcage Walk

Rate negotiation: if your preferred venue doesn’t match your allocated budget, it’s worth enquiring about discounted rates for off-peak days or lower season times of the year. If you’re looking to secure a venue for multiple dates, why not ask about a preferential block booking rate? For charity or public sector organisations, concession discounts are often available. And some venues may even be open to contra deals, depending on who your attendee audience is and what sponsorship opportunities are on offer.

How to find a meeting room with Westminster Venue Collection

If you’re looking for meeting rooms in London, Westminster Venue Collection provides a one-stop venue-finding service. Our membership includes over 50 of the most prestigious and sought-after venues and meeting spaces, offering extensive choice, state-of-the-art facilities and show-stopping views of the capital’s most iconic landmarks.

Traditional meeting rooms at One Great George Street — Meeting rooms at One Great George Street

Find venues in Westminster for your next event

Enquiring with Westminster Venue Collection couldn’t be easier thanks to our free, personalised service. Using the search facility on our website, you can save time by creating a shortlist and submitting one event enquiry to multiple venues simultaneously.

Alternatively, send your brief to [email protected] and we’ll match you to the best suited venues with availability for your preferred dates.

Celebrating a record year of growth and development at the Westminster Venue Collection AGM

Posted on 1st November 2024 by patchmarketing_info

On 23^rd October 2024, Westminster Venue Collection gathered at The Lansdowne Club for our latest Annual General Meeting.

Following a record year, it was the perfect time to reflect on recent achievements, celebrate successes and of course, welcome our new, expanded Board of Directors.

This year, under the direction of Paul Martins as Chair, and with strategic support from our marketing partner, Patch Marketing, our portfolio has grown by 50%, to over 50 venues.

We’ve had a busy year of events, exhibiting at the London Summer Event Show and The Meetings Show, as well as running our bi-monthly members meetings. In March, we launched our inaugural series of CSI themed familiarisation trips, in partnership with Huxley Events, to showcase the versatility Westminster venues have to offer event planners. Then in September, we hosted our annual showcase at RSA House.

At the AGM, we were thrilled to announce that Barbara Wutte from The Royal Society was resuming her former position of Chair, taking over from Paul who she thanked for his leadership. Barbara also introduced the new board formation, which includes a new Vice Chair and four new board members.

Introducing the new Westminster Venue Collection Board

Returning Chair and Enquiries Lead – Barbara Wutte

Barbara has been integral to the Collection’s board since 2017, helping to drive its vision and portfolio growth, in the roles of Chair, Vice Chair and supporting board member. Barbara says: “I’m delighted to be returning as Chair and to build on the incredible success we’ve achieved this past year through our progressive strategy. I’d like to thank Paul for his leadership and I’m excited to welcome our newest board members. Together, we will be focused on generating significant returns for our members, through multi-channel marketing campaigns, attendance at key industry exhibitions, hosted showcase and networking events for our ever-growing client base.”

Vice Chair – Clare Brace, IET London: Savoy Place

With over 25 years of industry experience, predominantly in venues and hotels, Clare is a superb addition to the board. As Vice Chair, she’ll support Barbara by sharing leadership duties, as well as take the lead on delivering our annual showcase, which is eagerly anticipated every year.

New board member – Medina Williamson, The Lansdowne Club

Medina lives and breathes hospitality and has done since the age of 16. She’ll be leading on the development of our new website. Education will be her other key focus area, channelling her desire to inspire the next generation by increasing awareness about why events is such a rewarding career.

New board member – Christine Milburn-Philpott, One Birdcage Walk

Originally from Toronto, Canada, Christine has over a decade of experience working at iconic London venues. She loves finding opportunities for new growth, a skill which she plans to bring to the Westminster Venue Collection as a board member. She will also be supporting Medina with the new website.

New board member – Stephan Trockle – The Embassy, Lumiere London

Stephan and his husband, Fashion Photographer Carlos Lumiere founded Lumiere London in 2007. He’s currently part of the HM Government’s HELP TO GROW: Management Course at King’s College London. Stephan will be supporting the board in the role of Diversity, Equality and Inclusion Lead.

New board member – Rafael Azzopardi, Regent’s Events

Rafael has over three decades of expertise in orchestrating high-impact events and enhancing service excellence. As a new board member, he brings a unique blend of industry knowledge and a fervent commitment to education. Raf is eager to support our mission of collaborative excellence, sharing his insights and helping to build a culture of continuous learning and professional growth.

The Westminster Venue Collection 2024/25 Board of Directors also includes:

Rhiannon Thomas, Central Hall Westminster – Exhibitions Lead
Marina Papadopoulou, Church House Westminster – Social Events Lead
Kay Davies, Houses of Parliament – Finance Lead
Paul Martins, Broadway House at Make Venues – Proactive Membership Growth Lead

With over 175 years of combined industry experience, our new board is expertly placed to support continual growth throughout 2025.

How to find a venue for an event with Westminster Venue Collection

If you’re planning an event in London, our diverse venue portfolio offers a huge wealth of choice in the historic City of Westminster.

Submit your event brief today

To explore Westminster Venue Collection, why not use the search facility on our website to create a shortlist? Or email your brief to [email protected] and we’ll match you to the best suited Westminster venues. You’ll then hear back from the ones that can fulfil your brief and have availability for your preferred dates.

Event Success at Westminster at the 2024 Showcase

Posted on 21st October 202421st October 2024 by patchmarketing_info

We were delighted to recently host our Westminster Venue Collection annual showcase event for 2024.

Over 100 event professionals joined us for ‘Meet me in Westminster’ – an exclusive evening of networking, decadent catering and unique entertainment – held at the magnificent RSA House. And of course, a rare opportunity for event planners from a range of industries to discover more about 54 leading Central London venues, all in one unforgettable night.

Since 2023, our prestigious portfolio of member venues has more than doubled. From fashionable townhouses, private members’ clubs and luxury hotels to iconic attractions and historic institutes, the Collection represents Westminster’s rich heritage, diversity and versatility as a world-class destination for events.

Every year, the showcase highlights the extensive choice Westminster has to offer for corporate and private events, including weddings, conferences, meetings, gala dinners, Christmas parties, team building, filming, launches and exhibitions. Guests can explore hidden gems, cultural icons, architectural marvels and blank-canvases – with every venue offering something truly unique for hosting incredible events.

Read on to find out more about what happened on the night and what our guests had to say about the experience.

“The event was excellent and saves so much time getting to know the venues and the people who can help with different types of events.”

Meeting the best venues in London

This year, we welcomed event planners from companies including Pfizer, Goldman Sachs, University College London, Government Office for Science, Ove Arup & Partners Ltd and Shard Financial Media. RSA House was buzzing as guests immersed themselves in all that the Collection, and Westminster, has to offer for corporate and private events, and discussed their bespoke requirements.

For our newest members, the Emmanuel Centre, 1 Wimpole Street and Six Park Place (at the Royal Over-Seas League), this year was their first opportunity to learn why our showcase has become a not-to-be-missed annual event!

Courtesy of RSA House’s on-site caterers, Company of Cooks, guests enjoyed a delicious selection of canapés and bowl food, with menu highlights including Braised beef chimichurri and Potato gnocchi ‘Arrabiata’.

Roving entertainment, provided by Judge The Poet, invited guests to choose any three words at random, to be performed as a spontaneous, rhyming poem. No matter how obscure the word choice, Judge met the challenge every time, with hilarious results!

“Thank you to you and the rest of the team for last night’s event – there were an excellent array of venues that I really enjoyed speaking to.”

Excellent prizes won

The evening also included a raffle of prizes generously donated by our members. Lucky guests were thrilled to receive an array of fantastic prizes:

Bottle of sparkling wine from Asia House – won by Malcolm, Events Focus
Afternoon Tea for Two within the iconic Long Room at Lord’s Cricket Ground – won by Helen, Goldman Sachs
£40 bar voucher for The Thirsty Scholar at ISH Venues – won by Hannah, Afion Media
Searcys gin and a selection of tonics from IET London: Savoy Place – won by Julie, Ark Venue Finder
One night’s stay and breakfast for two in a King room at the Great Scotland Yard – won by Rachel, CVC Capital
Four ticket vouchers for Vue Cinema – won by Sarah, Eton College
A Zen Corporate Wellness Gift Hamper from Church House – won by Ann, Pfizer
Bottle of champagne from Broadway House – won by Alisha, Federation of Cocoa Commerce
Chocolates from the Houses of Parliament – won by Sandra, PBC
Two tickets to a Candlelight Concert at Central Hall Westminster – won by Abbie, Langham Hall
Dinner for two at the Wild Honey St James Bistro at Sofitel St James – won by Lisa, CLA
£50 bar tab at the new RSA bar – won by Vicky, European Bank
Two tickets to the Van Gogh: Poets and Lovers exhibition and afternoon tea at Ochre Restaurant, National Gallery – won by Stephanie, Pladis Global
Afternoon tea for two at Six Park Place – won by Jay, Atlassian
Family of four tickets to a screening of The Snowman and The Snow Dog with live orchestral soundtrack performed by the Sinfonia Smith Square – won by Pav, Premier Property
Glass of Searcys Champagne and nibbles at Searcys Bar and Brasserie opening at Surveyors House – – won by Lyndsey, Park Lane Events
Bottle of wine from the Emmanuel Centre – won by Minnie, LM Globalink

“I really enjoyed myself, made some fantastic connections and gathered so much useful information about the different venue spaces.”

A special thanks to our event suppliers

RSA House – a historic Georgian townhouse that seamlessly combines original period architecture with contemporary design and technology. With 12 rooms available to hire, all offering varying capacities and configurations, RSA House is a versatile and stunning choice of venue for weddings, corporate and private events.

Company of Cooks – for over 25 years, Company of Cooks have been working as a trusted catering partner in many of the UK’s most cherished venues. In keeping with their values, of craft, creativity and community, they shape unique food and drink experiences and create lasting memories.

Andrew Lunn Photography – Andrew is a renowned commercial photographer based in central London. Specialising in live events, portraits and headshots; he helps businesses of all sizes harness the power of visual storytelling to bring their brands to life.

Judge The Poet – Judge is a truly unique entertainer, captivating audiences all over the world with his extraordinary spontaneous poetry. Here in the UK, he has performed at Buckingham Palace, Windsor Castle, Kensington Palace, Wembley Stadium and Glastonbury Festival, to name a few notable venues! For corporate and private events, he offers roving, cabaret show or workshop entertainment.

Generate Media Video – creative content experts, with decades of industry experience. Generate Media work with sustainable companies to elevate their brand and drive more business through curated film, photography and social media campaigns.

Peachy Productions – a trusted event production specialist working with a broad range of clients and venues across London, Surrey, Hampshire and Sussex. Peachy Productions offer an extensive inventory of furniture, as well as cutting-edge lighting, sound, video, rigging and staging equipment, to corporate and private events of every size or scale.

“Meeting so many venues under one roof in one night is invaluable. I left with a wealth of information about the latest developments, new event spaces, refurbishments and Christmas party availability within the Collection.”

Event profs networking at the 2024 Westminster Venue Collection Showcase Event

Enquire with the best event venues in London

Within Westminster Venue Collection, you’ll find your perfect central London venue for events. Our portfolio includes a diverse selection of modern and traditional exhibition spaces, museums, auditoria, conference rooms and banqueting halls. Whether you’re organising a conference, meeting, launch event, gala dinner, exhibition; or planning a wedding reception or other private celebration, our shortlisting and enquiry service couldn’t be easier.

Simply send your event brief to [email protected], or search on our website to create a shortlist of spaces that are best suited to your requirements. To save you time, only venues with availability that match your brief will be in touch.

Register your interest to attend our 2025 showcase event

To make sure you’re the first to hear about our 2025 showcase, please register your interest.

London’s Finest Private Dining Rooms

Posted on 30th August 202421st October 2024 by patchmarketing_info

Private dining offers a bespoke and memorable way of bringing people together for a shared experience to mark a special occasion.

Whether gathering loved ones to celebrate a rite of passage, hosting a business launch or entertaining clients, private dining allows you to create a truly unique occasion. And where better to host the occasion than in a fabulous private dining room in London, the most iconic City in the world.

When organising private dining events, there is huge scope for customisation – whether personal or professional. By finding a venue that will work with you to tailor everything from the menu to the décor, you can curate an experience that aligns with your values and vision.

Private dining rooms in London are seeing increasingly high demand and it’s easy to see why. The capital offers an unrivalled selection of exclusive options set against a magnificent backdrop. Within the City of Westminster, which is world-renowned for its historical, cultural and political significance, an abundance of venues can be found among some of the country’s most iconic landmarks.

From traditional to contemporary, luxurious to innovative, intimate to large scale, and immersive to ambient – Westminster has it all when it comes to private dining venues in London. In this feature, we’ll highlight some of the best options you can consider for your next special occasion, whatever the size, scale or format.

Private Dining Rooms with a View

President’s Dining Room at Surveyors House

Private Dining Room with views of Big Ben in London, at Surveyor's House venue. — President’s Dining Room at Surveyor’s House

Located on the 5th floor of Surveyors House, the President’s Dining Room can be hired exclusively for intimate events for up to 18 guests seated, or 40 guests for a standing reception.

The listed Victorian building has many stunning original characteristics and is home to the HQ of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS).

Directly overlooking Big Ben and the Palace of Westminster, it is a window to the world of historic London.

Pavilion at Westminster Boating Base

If you’re looking for a River Thames side setting to wow your guests, Westminster Boating Base offers spectacular panoramic views to enjoy from its private balconies and event spaces.

Private Dining in the Pavilion at London venue, Westminster Boating Base — Pavilion at Westminster Boating Base

The venue is reached via the tree-lined oasis of Pimlico Gardens and has a private jetty for riverboat access if you really want to impress. And with Battersea Power Station standing tall across the water, there are plenty of picture-perfect moments to capture at this unique location.

The Pavilion can accommodate up to 150 guests seated or 350 standing and provides a blank canvas for bespoke theming.

Rooftop Terrace at The Conduit

Suitable for up to 60 seated for a private dinner, or 80 reception-style, your guests will be immersed in a nature-friendly environment while taking in the West End’s iconic skyline.

Large Banqueting Venues and Private Dining Rooms

For larger-scale celebrations and corporate events, there is a multitude of options available. Many venues, steeped in history and featuring grand architecture, provide an opulent environment for private celebrations and important business gatherings.

The sense of grandeur that comes with a private dining experience in a heritage venue is hard to beat!

These three amazing venues are among our favourites for a special occasion:

Great Hall at One Great George Street

Elegant private dining room in London venue, One Great George Street — The Great Hall at One Great George Street

In the heart of Westminster, One Great George Street is a Grade II listed, glass-domed Edwardian building.

Its flagship Great Hall, which can seat up to 260 guests, epitomises luxury. Featuring oak flooring, a painted ceiling, crystal chandeliers and gold leaf finishes, it is a magnificent environment for wedding breakfasts or gala dinners.

By day, natural light streams in through seven floor-to-ceiling windows. The Great Hall transforms at night, with in-house lighting to highlight the ornate architecture.

Inner Temple Hall at Inner Temple

The Honourable Society of the Inner Temple has a rich history dating back hundreds of years. Situated in London’s legal quarter, the recently refurbished venue is one of the city’s last remaining Georgian style settings for hosting events.

Banquet dinner at historic London venue, Inner Temple — Inner Temple Hall at Inner Temple

The Inner Temple Hall is a stunning choice for a private dinner to remember. Stained glass windows, oak panelling, heraldic shields and historic paintings on display all add to its unique character. It even has its own minstrels’ gallery!

The flexible space is ideal for long banquet-style or round table seating for up to 260 guests.

The Nash at 116 Pall Mall

Another magnificent Georgian building is 116 Pall Mall, home to the Institute of Directors (IOD). With an array of event spaces spread across five floors, you will be spoilt for choice at this versatile venue.

Chic stunning private dining room inside 116 Pall Mall. — The Nash at 116 Pall Mall

The largest available space is the 3,000 sq ft Nash Room, named after the architect John Nash, who initially designed the spectacular building.

Ideal for seating up to 250 guests, the Nash Room has a balcony overlooking the gardens below and with an adjacent reception space, it is a popular choice for private dining. Before the IOD took up residence, 116 Pall Mall was home to the United Services Club. Many of the of the clubs’ original paintings adorn the walls.

Intimate and Small Private Dining Rooms

Whether celebrating a special occasion with your closest loved ones, or organising an exclusive dinner for VIP clients, smaller private dining rooms hold a special charm.

From an exquisite afternoon tea to a Michelin-starred culinary experience, intimate dining is the perfect way to create unforgettable memories for your guests.

These options showcase the diversity of venues to choose from:

Intimate fine private dining room in London venue, Asia House — Fine Room One and Two at Asia House

Fine Room One and Two at Asia House

The event spaces available for exclusive hire at this Grade II* listed Georgian townhouse include three regency-style Fine Rooms, featuring high decorative ceilings, beautiful chandeliers and marble fireplaces.

The Library is another stunning space for an intimate gathering, with bookshelves designed by famous architect Sir John Soane.

Brabourne Room at Six Park Place

Home of the Royal Over-Seas League, this venue offers eight interior rooms and a rare hidden gem of a Garden within central London.

Impressive private dining room, Brabourne Room, in elegant London venue, Six Park Place. — Brabourne Room at Six Park Place

The Brabourne Room lends itself particularly well to intimate private dining for a maximum of 40 guests.

Last year, the lavish Edwardian room was restored to its original glory. With its pattern-tiled entrance, stylish high ceiling, large ornate fireplace and double doors opening onto the Garden, it will add gravitas and grandeur to your event.

The Ballroom at Lumiere’s The Embassy

Perfectly blending classic and modern features, The Embassy is an elegant choice for boutique events. Situated on Grosvenor Place, in prestigious Belgravia, it has excellent transport links, with Hyde Park Corner, Green Park and Victoria Underground stations all nearby.

Exclusive-use private dining room in Lumiere London's venue, The Embassy — Ballroom at Lumiere’s The Embassy

While the building’s history dates to the 18th century, it has been equipped with state-of-the-art equipment to enhance a range of event formats.

With a ballroom and three additional rooms of varying size, each with its own unique aesthetic style and décor, the attention to design detail won’t go unnoticed. If you’re looking for a creative canvas to create your bespoke private event, look no further than Lumiere’s Westminster venue.

Find your perfect private dining room hire in London

We hope our handpicked selection of private dining venues in London has provided some inspiration for your special occasion. These are just some of the options to consider within the extensive Westminster Venue Collection portfolio.

To find out more about any of the featured venues or explore the full range of options available, why not use the search facility on our website to create a shortlist? Or email your brief to [email protected] and we’ll match you to the best suited venues with availability for your preferred dates.

Follow Westminster Venue Collection for more event venue inspiration, event planning tips and exciting event invites.

Top Christmas party venues and themes for a memorable celebration in Westminster

Posted on 13th June 202421st October 2024 by patchmarketing_info

The office Christmas party is a time to wrap up the year and say thank you to your staff and colleagues for all their hard work. It’s a time for your team to celebrate the festive season without the stress and hassle of hosting or family politics, so it’s important an organiser gets it right – and this starts with finding the perfect Christmas party venues.

Here at Westminster Venue Collection (WVC) we look after a group of exclusive spaces which comprise some of the finest the capital has to offer. Museums, galleries, historic buildings, luxury hotels, townhouses… our portfolio of Christmas event venues in London is varied and extensive. We’re confident that however you choose to celebrate this year, you’ll find the ideal space by searching our selective database.

During this feature, we’re going to take you through some of the different types of venues we have on our books, plus we’ll be offering you some advice on hosting the perfect festive gathering and sharing with you a handful of ideas on theming and décor.

Why choose Westminster for your Christmas party?

Christmas party planning always begins with the question of, where? We believe Westminster is the best place in the capital to hold events. The borough is a city within a city and draws in millions of visitors every year who come in their droves for the history, the sightseeing and the attractions. There’s a surprising amount of parks and outdoor spaces within the area (116 to be precise) – St James’ Park and Regents’ Park for example – which are stunning all year round, but when covered in snow are transformed into some of the most beautiful and atmospheric places in London.

Westminster is also brilliantly connected for local, national and international travel. All WVC venues are a short walk from at least one tube station and have quick and easy links to National Rail lines and London City Airport. The borough is also home to a huge array of hotel options with something for every budget from genuinely affordable choices through to world-class, luxury accommodation.

Top Christmas party venues in Westminster

Historic Christmas party venues

London is one of the most historically rich cities in the world and its buildings hold the stories of its past. These spaces provide a poignant, beautiful backdrop for traditional Christmas parties, they each have their own, distinct charm and elegance that they bring to the events they hold. Many of our buildings aren’t open to the general public, so inviting your valued members of staff into one of our exclusive traditional Christmas venues is the beginning of a truly memorable classic Christmas party.

Modern Christmas party venues

If you think your colleagues would prefer a more contemporary event space, our collection also contains some stunning, modern venues. Our modern venues in Westminster include spaces with floor-to-ceiling windows and unrivalled views over the River Thames. Clever lighting and contemporary cuisine with a Christmas twist makes sure none of the magic is lost and that your party is as festive as can be.

Unconventional and unique venues in Westminster

If you’ve been organising the Christmas party for your team for a while now, you might have decided that this year you want to opt for something a little bit different. Choosing an unconventional Christmas venue, like an art gallery or a rooftop bar, is a foolproof way to make an immediate impression on your guests. It’s also guaranteed to give your guests an interesting talking point and a reason to tell their friends about their special night.

Fun and different Christmas party themes

You might be under the impression that Christmas is premiss enough for a party, but a separate theme can elevate your event to the next level. Many of our venues’ Christmas packages include full theming which includes decorations, music and entertainment. In the past, we’ve seen some amazing event theming including Winter Wonderland, Narnia and Dickensian Christmas. By choosing a specific theme for your party you’ll be able to make sure you’re creating the perfect atmosphere, tailor-made for your guestlist.

Tips for planning the perfect Christmas party in Westminster

Christmas party planning can be stressful, but our tips are designed to help you enjoy a smooth run up to your event…

Our first, top tip, is to start planning as early as you can. There will only be a handful of dates that will suit you, so you’ll need to get your enquiries in at least six months in advance as the best venues will book up early. If you know where you want to book, don’t hesitate to get in touch to get yourself pencilled in. If you’re still undecided, WVC can help the process. By filling in an enquiry form on our website, we can help you narrow down your Westminster venue booking options. We’ll only put you in touch with venues that can meet your requirements which will save you a lot of time and effort for you to enjoy a stress-free event planning experience.

Secondly, we’d suggest running through your budget with your chosen venue. You can then decide where you want to spend and where you want to save. We’d also advise you to keep a little bit of money back for any last-minute extras or upgrades you might want to make further down the line.

Thirdly, a timeline of when decisions need to be made and suppliers need to be booked will give you a clear time frame of actionable tasks. This will ensure nothing slips through the net and there are no nasty surprises.

10 11 Carlton House Terrace 1 — {10-11} Carlton House Terrace

Use our venue-finding service to source the perfect Christmas party venues in London

If you think Westminster is the right venue for this year’s Christmas party, then you can simply email your requirements to [email protected]. Or, if you’d like to browse our collection of exclusive venues, take a look on our website. You could also fill out our enquiry form and we’ll get back to you with all our members who can best fulfil your requirements.

Top film locations venues in Westminster

Posted on 20th May 202430th August 2024 by patchmarketing_info

If you’re a scout looking for a film location for your next project – be it a film, photography shoot, TV series or online content – we might well have the perfect film location venues for you.

Our portfolio of buildings contains a wide variety of contemporary and historic London filming locations, many with fabulous views, stunning spaces and great access for crews.

We have over 50 unique properties on our books, all within one of the most historically significant and iconic boroughs of London. You can either get in touch with us directly or use our online tool to help you narrow down your options.

We’re proud of the role some of our venues have played in previous film and TV productions including A Spy Among Friends, Trigger Point and Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides.

Why Westminster is the perfect location for film productions

Westminster is the home of Government, Buckingham Palace, Big Ben and Westminster Abbey. Every year millions of tourists flock to see its iconic landmarks and some of London’s most famous backdrops.

As well as housing some of the country’s most historically important buildings, the central London borough of Westminster also boasts some stunning, contemporary architecture (perfect for a striking film set). Many of its venues enjoy unrivalled views over the River Thames with the popular Southbank (think the London Eye and County Hall) in clear view just over the water.

As you would imagine, being one of the most popular destinations within the capital, Westminster’s infrastructure is more than capable of dealing with the transport needs of a full production crew. Public transport links are second-to-none and all our venues have the facilities for the delivery of large pieces of filming equipment and props.

Benefits of filming in Westminster

The versatility of our venues means that we can cater for a wide range of genres, from period dramas to cutting-edge police shows. Our Westminster film location venues include: Historic event spaces such as the Churchill War Rooms, The Inner Temple, and The Houses of Parliament; entertainment and arts venues including The Royal College of Music, Lumiere’s The Embassy, and Leicester Square’s Vue Cinema and some more off-beat spaces like the Westminster Boating Base and London Transport Museum.

Accessibility and logistics

Westminster borough has 32 London Underground tube stations, four train stations, three Elizabeth Line stations and around 495 bus stops which are served by 73 day-time bus routes. We’re pretty sure this little lot will ensure you and your team can easily access our venues from wherever they’re coming from. As well as having excellent transport links for crew and cast, our venues are used to facilitating the drop-off and pick up of large and delicate film equipment and all of the weird and wonderful paraphernalia that can come with a shoot.

All our venues offer high-quality, in-house catering and refreshments which means you don’t need to worry about hiring in outside catering teams to feed your cast and crew.

Being in the heart of the City also means we have a huge array of hotels on our doorstep, with everything from budget accommodation to some of the most luxurious properties in the world. We’re confident there will be overnight options that will suit the purses of all the members of your group, even high-profile cast members.

Westminster is home to celeb hangouts including The Landmark and the Baglioni hotels – Al Pacino, Halle Berry and Will Smith having apparently stayed in the latter. Hotel 41, Corinthia London and The Goring Hotel are also known to host world-famous clients, although finding out exactly who’s stayed with them isn’t easy as discretion is obviously an important part of their customer service.

Support services and expertise

The staff at Westminster Venue Collection know the rules and regulations of their borough inside out. They are more than happy to help any location managers ensure they’re applying for the correct permits, if necessary. They can also offer advice on any logistical challenges you might be facing, particularly with finding accessible film locations.

We understand that every shoot is different and comes with its own, unique requirements and our location management services can help scouts who are booking with any of our members. The Westminster City Council is always on hand to ensure you plan a safe and successful film shoot in the popular borough. Details of commercial filming and photography in Westminster, including restricted film location venues, can be found on their website.

Films with Westminster venues on the Big Screen

Popular TV Series 'Trigger Point' used central London venue, QEII Centre as a film location. — Hit TV Series ‘Trigger Point’ filmed at QEII Centre

Historic film location in London, The Lansdowne Club. Amongst film locations for the 1965 film, 'Darling'. — 1965 classic film ‘Darling’ filmed at The Lansdowne Club.

Infamous film series featuring Johnny Depp, 'Pirates of the Caribbean' filmed in Westminster at The Inner Temple. — Pirates of the Caribbean On Stranger Tides shot at The Inner Temple

RSA House, central London filming location for iconic 2018 TV Series 'Bodyguard'. — Widely-loved TV Series ‘Bodyguard’ scenes shot outside RSA House

How venue finding service can help find your next film location in London

Film location venues can be hard to find. A lot of a scout’s time is spent trawling through places which, for one reason or another, are never going to work out. The great thing about using a venue-finding service to find your Westminster shoot location is that we do a lot of the hard work for you. We’ll only present you with a short-list of quotes from venues that can accommodate your needs, saving you valuable time.

Your next flexible filming location in London

Sending your requirements over to us at Westminster Venue Collection will only take a few minutes and could save you hours of searching through venues which will prove to be dead ends. Drop us a line at [email protected] and we’ll only come back to you with quotes from venues that we know can fulfil your brief. Alternatively, you can browse our collection of spaces and buildings and then use our search tool to create a shortlist.

The best summer party venues in Westminster, London

Posted on 26th April 202430th August 2024 by patchmarketing_info

Although we Brits love to complain about the weather, no one can deny that when the sun comes out there’s no finer place to be on earth.

Hosting a summer party in the UK is one of the few times organisers get to make the most of our short-lived, warmer months, so choosing the perfect summer party venue is a decision not to be taken lightly. Here at the Westminster Venue Collection, we think our little corner of the capital is the best choice for any planner wanting to host an exceptional, memorable event to celebrate your colleagues and thank them for their hard work.

We wanted to take a moment to tell you about all the fabulous things you can find in Westminster, including rooftop gardens, green spaces, sun terraces, river views and much, much more. We also wanted to share some of our top tips for hosting brilliant summer events by looking into theming, catering, entertainment and other summer party event planning tips.

Why Westminster is ideal for your summer party

London is, arguably, the best city in the world. (We might be a bit bias, but it’s not an uncommon opinion). And Westminster, home of the Government and the King is undeniably one of the most famous and desirable locations within the capital. Millions of tourists flock to see Buckingham Palace, Big Ben and Westminster Abbey every year, so it’s fair to say that Westminster knows how to pull in the crowds! Your guests might not be flying in from all over the world, but hosting a summer party for your colleagues in a place with international appeal means that your guests won’t be short of sightseeing opportunities either side of your event.

It’s not just historic landmarks that make Westminster a fabulous place for meeting up. The area, like most of London, is culturally diverse with a vibrant atmosphere. The shops, bars, restaurants and entertainment venues are varied and world-class which means your summer party guests will have lots of excuses to make your party the centre of a larger trip, should they desire.

It’s also worth noting that as well as all the great things on our doorstep, Westminster benefits from excellent transport links. As you’d expect, we’re connected to the London Underground, National Rail and City Airport is a short train ride away. We’ve also got a plethora of hotels within the borough, stretching from affordable options to some of the most exclusive accommodation in the country.

Best outdoor summer party venues in London

Outdoor venues

As we’ve mentioned before, the window of opportunity to enjoy the outdoors in Britain is a narrow one, so it’s no surprise that organisers like to make hay while the sun shines. Hiring an outdoor venue in Westminster for your London summer party – whether that’s a lush green lawn, an urban rooftop terrace or a pretty courtyard – means your guests will enjoy the chance to relax in the fresh air and to soak up the sun. What better way to let your hair down than by sipping a Pimms and a smoked salmon canape in a quintessential British summer garden party?

Indoor venues with outdoor access

Some of our corporate summer party venues in London offer planners the best of both worlds for a summer event, with an inside space that has access to an outdoor area. Terraces and balconies off the main party space give guests the option to enjoy the delights of a British summer with the back-up of an indoor area should the temperature drop or the heavens open. We believe Westminster is particularly well positioned to offer some of the best views London has to offer, so whatever vista your venue has, you’re likely to be able to see some beautiful buildings, the River Thames or one of the Royal Parks.

Unique and unconventional venues

As a historic city, Westminster boasts some incredibly interesting and quirky venues. Museums, galleries, historic landmarks… our portfolio includes unique spaces with fascinating stories to tell. Some of our venues aren’t open to the public which means your summer party is offering exclusive access to a building or space otherwise out of reach.

Within our portfolio of exclusive, Westminster event venues, we have a plethora of unique summer party venues. You’ll find a range of spaces within these buildings, inside and outside ones. To save you trawling through all of the options, the best way to find exactly what you’re looking for is to fill out our venue search form which will generate a short list of venues that can cater to your specific needs.

Tips for successful summer party event planning in Westminster

Early booking and scheduling

Most summer party venues in London will book up early, sometimes as much as a year in advance, so it’s well worth getting ahead of the games and pencilling dates with your short-list as soon as you can. We’d advise checking your calendar for any big sporting events or public holidays which might clash with your preferred date and you might consider making sure your key players can make your date.

Summer Party Theme and decor

It’s not always necessary to have a full-on theme for your summer event, but incorporating some special touches into your décor or catering can go a long way to adding a little something extra to your party. Taking an idea like tropical, beach, garden party or neon and threading all of the elements of your day together with this in mind helps with the overall impact of your event, ensuring your guests have a truly memorable, special day. Other themes we’ve seen work well at summer events include Luau, carnival and festival.

Entertainment and activities

Summer party entertainment is an important part of event planning and there are lots of options to consider. For music you could go for a string quartet, jazz band or acapella group – we’d always suggest splashing out on live music for a summer party if the budget will stretch. It really does add a whole other level to the day.

It’s also a great idea to organise games your guests can get involved with. Lawn games like croquet, a ring toss or some fairground attractions are good ways to help break the ice between party goers, inject a bit of fun into proceedings and encourage some good-natured competition at your event. Entertainers including roaming magicians and stilt walkers work well at summer parties as they don’t monopolise the crowd’s attention but create a dynamic talking point.

Finding summer party venues in Westminster

If you think you might find your ideal summer party venue in the Westminster Venue Collection portfolio, get in touch with us via [email protected]. Or you can begin your search on our website which will give you a shortlist of spaces that can fulfil your brief.

Follow Westminster Venue Collection for more event venue inspiration, event planning tips and exciting event invites.

Find the most sustainable event venues in London

Posted on 11th April 202414th October 2024 by patchmarketing_info

As the world sharpens its focus on climate change and what we can do to slow it down, the event industry – along with a whole host of other businesses – is raising its game.

Finding a sustainable event venue is quickly working its way up organisers’ lists of priorities and here at Westminster Venue Collection, our members are leading the way in event sustainability. So, if you’re hoping to be part of the solution you’ll be looking to hold more sustainable events, and that begins with finding a venue with fabulous green credentials.

In this feature, we’ll take you through the questions you need to ask your venue to make sure you’re choosing the most environmentally friendly site for your event. We’re also going to show you what some of our members are doing to combat climate change as well as asking some seasoned planners for their other tips on what individual organisers can do to reduce their carbon footprint even further.

Questions to ask your venue to create a sustainable event

Venue

Is your venue certified carbon neutral?
Do you use green energy?
Is your branding made from reusable materials?
Is your venue paperless?
What is your waste management policy?
Are any materials used recycled?
Does your venue have a Clear Air Route?
What sustainable lighting options do you provide?

Catering

Do your menus contain local produce and responsibly sourced ingredients?
Are your menus seasonal?
Is catering served using reusable containers/dishes?
What happens to any surplus food and drink? Do you have a waste management strategy?

Suppliers

Do you insist on all suppliers having certain sustainability criteria?
What distance will you travel to supply the venue?
Can I hire sustainable lighting for my event?

It’s also worth asking your venue if there’s anything else they’d like to tell you in reference to their sustainability efforts. They are likely to have lots to say on the subject, so give them the chance to showcase what they’re doing. It’s all information that will help you decide where to hold your event, and how to reduce your event’s carbon footprint.

Sustainable events in Westminster

If you’re choosing a green venue, why not go the whole hog and choose a green location? Westminster Greener City Action Plan is a scheme which launched in 2015 and has set specific targets for a number of environmental issues in the borough, due to be completed in 2025. The plan includes a wide variety of sustainability goals in a range of areas including waste management, noise pollution, air quality, water as a resource, sustainable travel and much more.

How to make your event more sustainable – the venues going above and beyond

We’ve asked a few of our members to tell us a bit about their green credentials:

WVC member, Broadway House, is part of Make Venues and the wider Make Group. The full organisation has pledged to the SME Climate Hub to half emissions by 2030 and achieve net zero by 2050. Here are just a handful of examples of the sustainability initiatives they have in place.

A combination of LED lighting, ‘switch off’ signs & automatic light sensors to save on electricity.
Staff car sharing schemes.
Electric Vehicle salary sacrifice scheme in place to encourage staff to move to electric vehicles.
Responsible planting initiatives attract wildlife to our venues, including bird baths and a bug hotel!
Food waste is turned into fertiliser and cooking oil into biodiesel.

Another one of our venue’s leading the way in sustainability is Royal College of Music. The prestigious venue is set to reach net zero and decarbonise the estate by 2035. For the second year, the Royal College of Music was awarded first place in the People and Planet University League table for universities with fewer than 5,000 students, an independent league of UK universities ranked on their environmental and ethical performance.

Recent carbon management projects have included upgrading the Amaryllis Fleming Concert Hall lighting to LED fixtures, and the installation of proximity sensors to control lighting automatically, both resulting in significantly reduced energy consumption. Underpinning all the work of the RCM, they also ensure that their accredited suppliers have an up-to-date Sustainability Policy which is in line with their own.

Westminster is packed full of historic, listed buildings. This status can pose challenges for venues wanting to stay ahead of the curve with their environmental upgrades, but Church House is a fabulous example of a beautiful, old building that is keeping up with state-of-the-art green tech, without compromising its historic integrity.

The iconic venue, known for hosting diverse events and gatherings, has transitioned to energy-efficient LED lighting systems, marking a commitment to environmental stewardship. LED lights are renowned for their energy efficiency, longevity, and minimal environmental impact, making them an ideal choice for institutions seeking to reduce their ecological footprint.

By replacing traditional lighting fixtures with energy-efficient LED alternatives, the venue will achieve significant energy consumption savings while contributing to broader environmental goals. This initiative underscores Church House’s commitment to responsible and sustainable practices within its venue and operations.

Sustainable event ideas and expert tips

You’ll be hard pushed to find a venue that isn’t ticking at least some of the eco-friendly boxes we’ve talked about in this piece, but if you’re looking for those who are taking things to the next level keep your eye out for the following:

Free bike storage
Living food walls/micro farms within the venue
Low-flow toilets and water-free urinals
Venues with green space are a helping hand to absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere
No-waste – and we’re not just talking single-use plastic – think leftover food charities and compost

What else can organisers do to make an event more sustainable?

Holding an environmentally friendly event isn’t just the responsibility of the venue you choose, there are lots of things you – as an event organiser – can do, too.

Starting with a plastic/paperless pledge is always a good way to kick things off.
Green goodie bags and off-setting your carbon emissions can also make a difference.
Encouraging your guests to get involved can also have a big impact. This could include using public transport to attend your event, committing to a single-use packaging/product-free day and asking them to store any info they need for the day digitally, rather than on a paper copy.

Find the most sustainable event venues in London with our venue finder

If you’re looking to host a sustainable event in London, simply fill out an enquiry form on our website and you’ll hear back from any venue in our portfolio with an event space that fulfils your brief.

If you have any questions about WVC membership, please drop us an email via [email protected].

Historic Conference Venues Bringing the past into future

Posted on 26th February 202430th August 2024 by patchmarketing_info

London is one of the most culturally and historically rich cities in the world. Millions of people travel to London every year to enjoy its buildings, sights and tourist attractions, meaning event organisers planning conferences in the city are spoilt for choice when it comes to choosing a venue with a story to tell. So, how do you choose the right venue for your event? And why should historic conference venues be on your event shortlist?

Are historic buildings a good choice as conference venues?

The list of things to consider when choosing the perfect historic conference venue is long, but we’ve boiled it down to our top tips for brevity.

The building’s story

If you’re looking for a building with a tale to tell, take the time to investigate its stories. Perhaps the venue was once owned by a famous historical figure, or maybe some very well-known faces once visited, or it might be that a particularly significant event took place within its walls. Communicating these stories to your guests will enhance your relationships and encourage small talk amongst your attendees. It will also help cement the fabulous memories your delegates will have after your conference.

‘Our clients love the historic surroundings and being amongst portraits of well-known scientists, such as Isac Newton or Steven Hawkings.’ says The Royal Society’s Mariana Dumitrascu. ‘Each corner of our event spaces has an exciting story to tell and delegates love to explore and learn during their events.’

Historic conference venue facilities

It’s more than likely that your historic venue wasn’t originally designed with conferences or contemporary events in mind and, while we don’t want to discourage you following your heart once you’ve fallen in love with a property, we would urge you to put your feelings to one side and be ruthless in your analysis of its facilities before you commit to ensure the meeting space is fully equipped for your event.

Is the venue accessible?
What state-of-the-art AV facilities do you have available?
Are there any restrictions in place I should be aware of?
What extent of event branding is possible in the venue?

All properties in the Westminster Venue Collection group have been sympathetically updated, and in some cases re-configured, to meet the needs of hi-tech, high-end events. With many of the buildings having been granted Grade 1 listed status, organisers can also rest assured that maintaining the spaces’ historical importance has been perfectly prioritised providing you with the hi-tech event facilities needed to create a seamless conference experience.

Event venue conference capacities

As every event organiser knows, you can’t ignore the numbers. The most important you need to think about are the budget and venue capacity. If the venue is stretching you too far or doesn’t have enough space for your guest list, you need to move on – even if you’ve already lost your heart to it.

Westminster Venue Collection’s members accommodate a wide range of capacities, search for conference venues using our capacity filter if you have a specific large capacity event in mind.

Central Location

Never underestimate the importance of the location of your venue – whether you’re opting for a historic venue or a contemporary one. Choosing a venue in a convenient location with excellent public transport links will break down one of the first perceived barriers presented to your invitees. If you’ve got guests coming in from further afield who are looking for overnight accommodation, then it’s important to ensure your conference room is situated amongst lots of hotels to suit varying budgets. If you’d like to offer guests nearby accommodation, see which hotels are part of Westminster Venue Collection – you’ll find our referral program will get you the best rates!

You might also want to think about the pre-event and post-event activities your delegates might want to indulge in – think about shopping, theatre, sightseeing and other business opportunities. Being situated in Westminster means our venues benefit from proximity to the River Thames (great for views and attractions) as well as being a short walk or tube ride to Covent Garden.

The corporate event team

Finding an in-house event team with whom you feel a connection is an important factor when choosing a historic conference venue. You’ll come to lean on the venue staff throughout your project and you’ll end up with a very close, working relationship. You will have to place your trust in them, so make sure you’re confident they are people you can work with.

How modern conferences work in historic venues

The juxtaposition of old and new during a modern conference at a historic venue is a powerful tool. Not only does the contrast create fascinating talking points for delegates, it also creates a unique atmosphere which takes people out of their day-to-day head space. Changing people’s environment, particularly for anything unusual or inspiring, is a fabulous way to get creative juices flowing and to encourage them to think outside of the box.

Why host your next event at a historic conference venue

Many historic venues in Westminster aren’t open to the general public, which means hiring one of these buildings for an event – be it a conference, product launch or drinks reception – helps add to its sense of occasion. Your guests will appreciate the exclusive access your event is offering them which will go a long way towards creating a truly memorable day or evening.

Historic Conference Venues in Westminster

If you think Westminster could offer you the perfect historic conference venue for your next event, start shortlisting your favourite venues ready to send your event brief. You will only hear back from the best historic venues in London who can fulfil your requirements. Please feel free to get in touch via [email protected] if you have any questions.

2024 Wedding Trends: Best Advice from Wedding Venues and Planners

Posted on 29th January 202420th August 2024 by patchmarketing_info

If you’re involved in a wedding this year – be it as a bride, groom, planner or supplier – you won’t want to miss our feature on 2024 wedding trends. We’ve hand-picked a group of experts whom work with, or for, venues within our portfolio, to get their advice on how to plan a wedding experience to remember in 2024.

From the predicted colour palettes of the year to the best wedding dates in 2024. We asked the wedding planning experts for their thoughts on 2024 wedding themes and when to start the wedding planning process.

Thanks to wedding planners Emma from Emma Jane Weddings and Leah from Leah the Wedding Planner (and bride-to-be), and to our exquisite venues, Amie Murphy, Business Development and Marketing Manager from {10-11} Carlton House Terrace, Emily Moss, Events Manager from the RAF Club, and Inga Mikusauskiene, Events Manager from the Lansdowne Club.

2024 Wedding trends

What are the 2024 wedding trend colours going to be?

Emma: ‘We’ll likely continue to see a growing trend in brighter, more colourful palettes as couples move away from the ‘white, blush pink and green’ template.’

Amie: ‘We love seeing the highly anticipated Pantone colour of the year. This year is Peach Fuzz which is a gorgeous shade between pink and orange.’

Leah: ‘Pale pink, peach, oranges and bright colours.’

Emily: ‘I expect we will see a surge in light colour palettes in 2024 following Pantone’s colour of the year Peach Fuzz, that brings a feeling of tenderness. With blush weddings and classic navy being expected to dominate, I imagine we will see many weddings with a light, elegant and traditional aesthetic.’

Inga: ‘The influence from Barbie is likely to continue, with pinks of all shades and plentiful flowers.’ So, experts predict that Pantone’s Colour of the Year will make a huge impact on 2024 weddings. With the wedding experts all agreeing delicate colours like peach, pink, and orange will be popular 2024 wedding trend colours. We believe this choice is beautiful and can be emphasised with stunning florals throughout the wedding ceremony and reception.

Any other 2024 wedding trends you’ve noticed?

The Lansdowne Club share their expertise avdice about 2024 wedding trends — Weddings at The Lansdowne Club

Emma: ‘Some of the most interesting trends we’ve spotted on Instagram lately include vegetables as part of the table flowers, wedding day content creators and an increase in quirky hand-painted or drawn stationery styles.’

Leah: ‘Long sleeve, long train dresses with longer veils with embroidery. Textured materials for wedding gowns are becoming more popular in 2024 as well as the grooms adding more pizzazz to their tux or lapels with florals or a two-tone, textured jacket.’

Inga: ‘Wedding weekends, with couples extending the festivities over multiple days, wedding wardrobes, because multi-day celebrations mean multiple outfit changes, wedding cake meadows, with living flower cake displays and Champagne towers, because everything old is now new again for 2024!’

Emily: ‘There has already been a strong environmental focus emerging for 2024, couples are incorporating sustainable elements, with eco-friendly décor and locally sourced florals.’

Amie: ‘We’re seeing lots of our couples choose to reduce their guests list and have more intimate wedding celebrations.’

What are the best dates and seasons to get married in 2024?

EmmaJane Camilla Frankies London Wedding at Clapton Country Club planned by Emma Jane Weddings photos by Emmylou Kelly — EmmaJane Weddings – Image Credit: Emmylou Kelly

Inga: ‘Based on the enquiries and bookings we’ve already had, Autumn is emerging as the most popular season. The prolonged fine weather and the comfortable temperatures, which are perfect for outdoor ceremonies and drinks receptions as well as, of course, the photographs.’

Emma: ‘Unlike previous years, 2024 is seeing suppliers receive more last-minute bookings which leads us to think that the autumn/winter period might be unexpectedly busy.’

Emily: ‘Especially in London, we anticipate more autumn weddings this year. London’s charm is heightened by the warm autumnal tones.’

2024 is the year of Autumnal weddings! With the peach colour themes and Autumnal Westminster backdrops predicted by our expert wedding planners, we’re predicting a lot of truly magical weddings!

2024 Wedding Planning Trends

What’s the first step in planning a wedding?

Leah: ‘Setting a budget! Set your budget for a venue and what you’d like to be included in a package for your guests.’

Amie: ‘It’s all about research – taking the time to look over a venue’s website, social media channels and request for further information about costs and availability before booking in that all-important venue viewing.’

Emily: ‘The first step in finding the perfect wedding venue is defining your vision and priorities. Whether it’s a grand ballroom or intimate garden setting, clarifying your preferences sets the tone for a focused search tailored to your dream celebration.’

How far in advance should I start planning my wedding?

Inga: ‘Post-pandemic, we’ve noticed shorter lead times for weddings – more like 6-12 months, as opposed to two years.’

Emma: ‘If you’re open to various venues and flexible with your supplier choices, you can still plan a wedding within 12 months.’

Amie: ‘People are usually looking 12 – 18 months ahead of time. But we do find that for city weddings lead times can be shorter.’

How many times should I see my wedding venue?

Wedding ceremony in {10-11} Carlton House Terrace and 2024 wedding trend predictions — Wedding ceremony in {10-11} Carlton House Terrace.

Amie: ‘Usually, our couples visit the venue once. But depending on who is involved in the planning, I would say two visits would be sufficient.’

Emily: ‘I would advise that couples visit their potential wedding venue twice to see the space in different lights and ensure they are confident in their decision.’

Inga: ‘Hopefully, it’s love at first sight! One thing we would recommend is that it’s always good to pay a return visit when the space has actually been set up for another wedding, to give you more of an idea of how the room could look.’

What are your top tips to avoid mistakes?

Emma: ‘There is absolutely no need to book something for your wedding day just because ‘it’s what other people do’ or for the sake of tradition. Don’t want to hold a bouquet when walking down the aisle? Don’t bother! Not a fan of cake? Your guests won’t miss it, I promise.’

Leah: ‘A lot of couples put other people’s opinions before their own and forget this is their special day. Do what you want to do and wear what you want to wear!’

Emily: ‘A common oversight in wedding planning is underestimating transportation logistics. Account for travel times between venues, especially in London, to ensure a seamless flow and avoid unnecessary stress.’

2024 Westminster Wedding Venue Trends

How can you create special moments in Westminster wedding venues?

Leah: ‘As a northerner, I’d say don’t miss out on all the iconic London architecture and scenery. There are so many unique photo opportunities to get in London and listen to your photographer. They know the best spots, lighting and techniques to help you remember your perfect day.’

Amie: ‘Our couples LOVE to plan for a picture on The Mall. Usually with a black London taxi in the background to capture a quintessentially London moment.’

Weddings at The Royal Air Force Club. Credit: Sophie Cass

How can we make our Westminster wedding day to remember?

Emily: ‘For a distinctive Westminster wedding, draw inspiration from the regal surroundings and opt for a theme centred around British elegance. Incorporate classic elements like fine China, ornate candelabras, and floral arrangements inspired by traditional English gardens for a timeless celebration.’

Inga: ‘Why not have your photo taken in a ubiquitous red telephone box? If your wedding ceremony is taking place elsewhere, transporting your guests aboard a traditional double-decker red bus is a fun way to take in the London landmarks along the way.’

2024 Wedding Venues in Westminster

Westminster Venue Collection members know a thing or two about hosting fabulous nuptials, with dozens of our wedding venues boasting some of the best spaces in the capital. If you’re looking for a central Westminster wedding venue for your big day, use our enquiry form to narrow down your search for the perfect venue.

Our contributors

Many thanks to:

Emma from Emma Jane Weddings
Inga Mikusauskiene from The Lansdowne Club
Amie Murphy from {10-11} Carlton House Terrace
Emily Moss from The Royal Airforce Club
Leah from Leah the Wedding Planner