St Ermin’s Hotel Wedding Photographer

St Ermin’s Hotel in Westminster is a 4 Star luxury venue in Westminster. Calling it grandiose would probably be an understatement.

St Ermin’s is built upon the site of a 15th century chapel dedicated to St. Ermin (a derivation of St. Armel). In the mid to late 19th century, Westminster underwent great changes and expansion, and the current building began its life as mansion flats in 1889.

During WW2 the Special Operations Executive (SOE) was created in, and took over an entire floor of, St. Ermin’s Hotel for its headquarters. MI6 were stationed two floors above. There is a small exhibition in the lobby of the hotel.

Churchill, often enjoyed a glass of his favourite Champagne in the Caxton Bar (among many other places no doubt). The Caxton Bar is also heavily rumoured to have been where the post-war double agent and eventual defector Guy Burgess used to meet his Russian counterpart and handed over secret government files.

In the lobby of the hotel you will see a genuine Westminster Division Bell to call MPs back to vote. Although apparently it no longer works (or maybe they don’t).

These days the hotel has its own bee hives (follow signs to the Bee Suite on the 4th floor) and grows its own vegetables on the rooftop.

It’s a Family Affair

I’ll admit – this was a bit of a strange experience. This is my first wedding I’ve covered within my own family. Elizabeth is my 2nd cousin twice removed or something like that (we all just call each other cousin…. it get’s confusing because our family is massive). And whilst it’s wonderful getting to experience a family member’s wedding, you really feel an extra pressure to deliver on a day like this. (Especially when your mum’s moving amongst the guests hyping up everyone’s expectations)

But as a bonus I had room and board in St Ermin’s Hotel in Westminster. Which was definitely my most luxurious stay ever (I usually book myself into a Purple Palace, of which there are few in the City of Westminster). I also got to take a photowalk around Westminster and the south bank the night before.

Elizabeth and Richard said their ‘I do’s’ in the Crystal Ballroom before heading up to the ballroom balcony for reception drinks. There were some formal shots in the courtyard outside the hotel before heading for the wedding breakfast in the cloisters suite. Then it was back into the Crystal Ballroom to cut their wonderful penguin-classics inspired cake and dance the night away.

The whole day was coordinated by Claret, St Ermin’s in house wedding coordinator,  who made sure the day ran smoothly. 

Flowers: Sweatpea Flowers
Cake: Jen’s Cakery

All about St Ermin’s Hotel Weddings

Weddings at St. Ermin’s Hotel in London are known for their elegance, charm, and historic setting. Located in Westminster, near St. James’s Park, the hotel offers a mix of traditional and contemporary styles, making it a popular venue for couples seeking a romantic and sophisticated wedding experience.

Venue Highlights:

• • Historic Setting: The hotel is a Grade II listed building with a rich history, offering a unique blend of Edwardian architecture and modern amenities. The grand staircase and the ornate lobby are particularly stunning, providing perfect backdrops for wedding photos.
  • Versatile Spaces: St. Ermin’s Hotel offers several versatile spaces for weddings, accommodating various sizes and styles. The Crystal Ballroom is one of the most popular options, featuring stunning chandeliers, high ceilings, and large windows that flood the room with natural light. For smaller, more intimate gatherings, the Cloisters Suite offers a cozy, yet elegant atmosphere.
  • Catering and Cuisine: The hotel is known for its exceptional catering services, offering a range of menu options from traditional British to contemporary international cuisine. The culinary team works closely with couples to customize menus that reflect their tastes and preferences.
  • Personalized Service: St. Ermin’s provides a dedicated wedding coordinator to help plan every detail of the day. From the initial consultation to the final send-off, the hotel’s staff is committed to ensuring a seamless and stress-free experience.
  • Accommodation: For couples and their guests, St. Ermin’s offers luxurious accommodation options. The hotel features stylish rooms and suites, making it convenient for guests to stay overnight or for the couple to enjoy a honeymoon suite.
  • Central Location: The hotel’s central location in London makes it easily accessible for guests. It’s also close to iconic landmarks like Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, and the Houses of Parliament, adding to the overall experience of a London wedding.

Wedding Packages:

St. Ermin’s offers a range of wedding packages that can be tailored to suit individual needs and budgets. These packages typically include venue hire, catering, drinks, floral arrangements, and additional services such as photography, entertainment, and more.

Unique Features:

• • The hotel has a beautiful private courtyard garden, perfect for outdoor ceremonies or a romantic photo shoot.
  • The mix of modern and historical design elements makes it suitable for both traditional and contemporary weddings.
  • St. Ermin’s is renowned for its bee terrace, where the hotel produces its own honey, which can be incorporated into wedding favors or desserts.

Elizabeth & Richard – St Ermin’s Hotel Wedding Photos