116 Pall Mall Wedding Photography in London
IOD London Wedding Photography at 116 Pall Mall
The second part of Gunita and Luis' wedding was the civil ceremony and reception at the amazing 116 Pall Mall - Institute of Directors. The venue is incredibly grand and filled with the most beautiful chandeliers, artwork and staircases and makes a perfect central London wedding venue.
The civil ceremony was an intimate and emotional one, and this was followed by the Dhol Players, elite wedding drummers entrance, which signalled the start of the celebrations. Parita Patel of Rishtaa Weddings and Events had done an impeccable job of putting together the custom-designed wedding stationery and lots of other beautiful details to really compliment the venue, and everything flowed so well.
The evening celebrations included an epic first dance which included a flash mob and a performance from drummers delight which was the perfect way to kick of lots of fun on the dance floor.
Here are a few images from this 116 Pall Mall Wedding at the Institute of Directors. If you missed part one of this Asian/Portuguese wedding then click here to see the religious ceremony in London.
Wedding Planning by Parita Patel of Rishtaa Weddings and Events
London Wedding Photography by Nick Rose Photography
Wedding Venue: Institute of Directors, 116 Pall Mall, St. James's, London, SW1Y 5ED
Dhol Players: Drummers Delight
116 Pall Mall Wedding Photographer | Luxury London Venue Guide
As a London wedding photographer who regularly works at prestigious venues across the capital, 116 Pall Mall holds a special place in my heart. This Grade I listed Georgian masterpiece, with its sweeping staircase and magnificent chandeliers, provides an absolutely perfect setting for wedding photography. The blend of historical grandeur and central London convenience makes every wedding at 116 Pall Mall truly spectacular.
116 Pall Mall Wedding Venue: A Complete Guide
History and Heritage of 116 Pall Mall London | Institute of Directors
Situated in the heart of St James's, 116 Pall Mall stands as one of London's most prestigious addresses. This magnificent building, home to the Institute of Directors since 1978, dates back to 1820 and represents the finest example of Georgian architecture in London. The building's rich history includes serving as the United Service Club, hosting numerous royal visitors and distinguished guests over its two-century history.
Originally designed by John Nash, the architect behind Buckingham Palace and Regent Street, the building showcases the finest elements of Georgian design. The stunning interior features original 1820s cornicing, authentic period fireplaces, and a remarkable collection of chandeliers, including one originally crafted for Napoleon's intended visit to Brighton Pavilion.
116 Pall Mall London Location and Transport
Nestled in the heart of St James's, 116 Pall Mall enjoys one of central London's most prestigious and accessible locations. The grand thoroughfare of Pall Mall places the venue within moments of royal parks, historic landmarks, and excellent transport connections, making it an ideal choice for both London-based couples and those planning a destination wedding in the capital.
The venue's central position ensures guests can arrive with ease from any direction. The proximity to multiple transport hubs means wedding parties can confidently plan their celebrations knowing that everyone, from local attendees to international visitors, will find the journey straightforward. For those requiring parking, several secure options exist within a short walking distance.
Key transport connections include:
Five minutes' walk from Piccadilly Circus tube station
Ten minutes from Charing Cross mainline station
Easy access from Green Park and Leicester Square stations
Multiple bus routes serving Pall Mall
Convenient for black cabs and private transport
Nearby parking at Q-Park Trafalgar and Arlington House
The prestigious St James's location places the venue within walking distance of numerous London landmarks, making it perfect for couples seeking iconic London wedding photographs.
Wedding Spaces at 116 Pall Mall London
The Nash Room at 116 Pall Mall
The Nash Room stands as the jewel in 116 Pall Mall's crown, offering an unparalleled setting for grand celebrations and elegant ceremonies. This spectacular space embodies the finest elements of Georgian architecture, with its soaring ceilings and magnificent windows creating an atmosphere of timeless sophistication.
Natural light streams through the floor-to-ceiling windows, illuminating the room's exceptional period features and creating perfect conditions for both ceremonies and celebrations. The space's proportions allow for various configurations, ensuring each couple can create their own vision while working with the room's inherent elegance.
Five original chandeliers cast a warm glow across the space, their crystal droplets creating a magical atmosphere as day turns to evening. These stunning pieces, each with its own history, add an extra layer of grandeur to any celebration. The room's Georgian cornicing and ornate ceiling work provide a stunning backdrop that needs little additional decoration, though the space welcomes personal touches that enhance its natural beauty.
Architecture and Design Features:
Five magnificent original chandeliers that cast enchanting light patterns
Meticulously preserved Georgian cornicing showcasing period craftsmanship
Floor-to-ceiling windows offering views over historic Pall Mall
Original period fireplaces adding character and warmth
Ornate ceiling details that draw the eye upward
Natural daylight flooding the space throughout the day
The room's practical considerations have been carefully integrated to maintain its historic character while meeting modern requirements:
Capacity and Practical Features:
Comfortable ceremony seating for up to 250 guests
Elegant dining configuration for 150 wedding breakfast guests
Spacious evening reception capacity of 250
Full civil ceremony license with various layout options
Sophisticated private bar facilities
Discrete air conditioning system
Excellent natural acoustics for music and speeches
Flexible layout possibilities for different celebration styles
The Carlton Room 116 Pall Mall
The Carlton Room offers an intimate setting with unique period features:
Room Features:
Original Georgian fireplaces
Ornate ceiling work
Large windows providing natural light
Views over Pall Mall
Connected anteroom perfect for drinks
Capacity Details:
Ceremony capacity: 100 guests
Wedding breakfast capacity: 60 guests
Licensed for civil ceremonies
Flexible seating arrangements
Perfect for intimate celebrations
Can combine with other spaces
Wedding Spaces at the Institute of Directors London
The Institute of Directors' historic London home offers an array of magnificent spaces, each with its own distinct character and charm. From intimate gatherings to grand celebrations, these rooms provide versatile settings that can be used individually or combined to create your perfect wedding journey.
The Morning Room at 116 Pall Mall
The Morning Room epitomizes refined elegance, offering a beautifully proportioned space that captures the essence of Georgian design. Flooded with natural light from its tall windows, this room serves multiple purposes throughout your wedding day with graceful versatility. Its position within the building makes it particularly suited for bridal preparations, intimate ceremonies, or sophisticated drinks receptions.
Original architectural features, including ornate cornicing and period fireplaces, create an atmosphere of timeless sophistication. The room's connection to main celebration spaces allows for seamless flow between different parts of your day, while maintaining its own sense of privacy and exclusivity.
During morning preparations, the room's excellent natural light creates perfect conditions for hair, makeup, and photography. As the day progresses, it transforms effortlessly into an elegant setting for intimate gatherings or a sophisticated retreat for the wedding party. The space's flexibility allows it to adapt to your needs while maintaining the prestigious atmosphere that characterizes the IOD's London headquarters.
The Wine Bar and Café Duke at 116 Pall Mall
Descending into the original vaulted cellars of 116 Pall Mall reveals one of London's most atmospheric wedding spaces. The Wine Bar and Café Duke offer a dramatic contrast to the Georgian grandeur above, providing unique settings that bring an additional layer of character to your celebration.
These historic spaces have been thoughtfully restored to create versatile areas perfect for evening receptions and entertainment. The original exposed brickwork and vaulted ceilings create a romantic atmosphere that needs little embellishment, while contemporary lighting design highlights the architectural features to dramatic effect.
The Wine Bar's historical connection to the building's past as a gentleman's club adds a fascinating layer of heritage to your celebration. Today, this atmospheric space accommodates up to 250 guests for evening receptions, with dedicated bar facilities and plenty of space for dancing. The room's unique character makes it particularly effective for evening entertainment, with the historic architecture creating a natural backdrop for bands or DJs.
Adjacent to the Wine Bar, Café Duke offers additional flexible space that can be used for quieter seating areas or additional entertainment options. The combination of these underground spaces creates an entirely different atmosphere from the formal rooms above, allowing your celebration to evolve as day turns to evening.
The Director's Room
Occupying a privileged position within the Institute of Directors' building, the Director's Room offers an intimate setting that exemplifies the sophisticated charm of 116 Pall Mall. This elegantly proportioned space serves beautifully for smaller ceremonies or private dining experiences, with period features and refined décor creating an atmosphere of exclusive luxury.
The room's heritage as part of the IOD's prestigious headquarters is evident in every detail, from the carefully preserved architectural elements to the dignified atmosphere that pervades the space. Large windows provide excellent natural light while offering views over historic Pall Mall, creating a bright, welcoming environment perfect for intimate celebrations.
For smaller weddings, the Director's Room provides an ideal setting for ceremonies of up to 60 guests, with the flexibility to transition seamlessly into an elegant space for wedding breakfasts or evening gatherings. The room's connection to other spaces within the building allows for creative use throughout your day, whether as a primary celebration space or as part of a larger event utilizing multiple areas of this magnificent venue.
116 Pall Mall Wedding Ceremonies
Civil Ceremony Options
The venue offers multiple licensed spaces for civil ceremonies:
Nash Room Ceremonies:
Maximum capacity 250 guests
Flexible seating layouts
Natural light from tall windows
Perfect acoustics for music
Various ceremony configurations available
Carlton Room Ceremonies:
Intimate setting for up to 100 guests
Beautiful natural light
Period features as backdrop
Excellent photo opportunities
Connected to reception spaces
Outdoor Photography Options
While ceremonies take place indoors, the surrounding area offers excellent photography locations:
St James's Park (5 minutes walk)
Carlton Gardens
Waterloo Place
The Royal Academy
Pall Mall itself
Planning Your 116 Pall Mall Wedding
Creating your perfect celebration at 116 Pall Mall requires careful consideration of timing and logistics. The venue's experienced events team has perfected the art of wedding day coordination, ensuring each celebration flows seamlessly from moment to moment. Their expertise in managing everything from intimate gatherings to grand celebrations means you can relax knowing every detail is in capable hands.
Wedding Day Timeline
Understanding how your day might flow helps in visualising your celebration at 116 Pall Mall. While each wedding is unique, the venue's experience has shown that certain timings work particularly well with the space and service structure. The following timeline serves as a framework that can be adapted to suit your specific requirements.
The day typically begins early, with suppliers and the wedding party having access to dedicated spaces from morning onwards. This allows for unhurried preparation and careful attention to detail in creating your perfect setting.
Morning Preparations: From the early hours, the venue comes alive with preparation activity:
8:00 - Supplier access begins, allowing for careful setup and decoration
9:00 - Bridal party arrives to settle into the preparation spaces
10:00 - Hair and makeup artists begin their artistry
11:00 - Final ceremony setup complete, allowing time for last-minute adjustments
The Afternoon Celebration: As guests begin to arrive, the celebration unfolds:
13:00 - Ceremony commencement in your chosen space
14:00 - Drinks reception begins, perhaps in the Carlton Room
15:30 - Wedding breakfast service starts
17:30 - Room turnaround for evening celebrations
19:00 - Evening guests arrive to join the party
Evening Festivities: The celebration continues into the night:
19:30 - First dance marks the start of evening entertainment
20:00 - Evening food service begins
23:00 - Last orders at the bar
00:00 - Carriages, marking the end of your perfect day
Practical Planning Considerations
The success of any celebration at 116 Pall Mall lies in the careful attention to practical details. The venue's infrastructure has been thoughtfully designed to support modern celebrations while maintaining its historic character. Understanding these facilities helps in planning your perfect day.
Logistics and Access: The venue offers comprehensive support for all aspects of your celebration:
Dedicated loading bay access via Carlton Gardens ensures smooth supplier arrivals
Lift access to all floors makes the venue fully accessible
Multiple powder rooms on each level provide guest convenience
Modern air conditioning maintains comfort throughout
A professional security team ensures peace of mind
Personal wedding coordinator guides your planning
Detailed supplier guidance available for smooth setup
Technical Infrastructure: Modern amenities have been discretely integrated throughout:
Professional sound system for speeches and music
Architectural lighting enhancing period features
High-speed WiFi throughout the building
Plentiful power sources for suppliers
PA system available when needed
Wireless microphones for speeches
Climate control in all spaces
Asian Weddings at 116 Pall Mall London
The grandeur and versatility of 116 Pall Mall make it an exceptional choice for Asian weddings, where the venue's dramatic architecture and flexible spaces create the perfect canvas for celebrations that blend cultural traditions with contemporary sophistication. The building's impressive scale and elegant detailing provide a magnificent backdrop for ceremonies that often incorporate elaborate décor and traditional elements.
Hindu Wedding Ceremonies
The Nash Room, with its soaring ceilings and magnificent proportions, transforms beautifully for Hindu ceremonies. The space adapts perfectly to accommodate traditional elements while maintaining its inherent elegance, creating a harmonious blend of cultural significance and architectural splendour. Natural light streaming through the tall windows enhances the vibrant colours typical of Hindu celebrations, while the room's impressive scale ensures comfort for even the most elaborate ceremonies.
The venue's experience in hosting Hindu weddings means they understand the specific requirements and sacred elements of these celebrations. Their expertise ensures that every aspect, from mandap placement to seating arrangements, is carefully considered to create both a meaningful ceremony space and a spectacular setting for photography.
Mandap Setup and Ceremonial Spaces: Working with experienced decorators, the Nash Room accommodates impressive mandap structures while ensuring perfect sight lines for guests:
Generous ceiling height allows for elaborate mandap designs
Excellent natural light enhances ceremony photographs
Multiple power points support traditional ceremony lighting
Easy supplier access for complex installations
Flexible space configuration for various ceremony styles
The venue's practical considerations extend to every aspect of Hindu ceremonies:
Dedicated space for traditional ritual elements
Perfect acoustics for live music and mantras
Separate areas for bride and groom's families
Ample room for traditional games and celebrations
Flexible catering arrangements for traditional fare
Multicultural Celebration Features
116 Pall Mall's versatility shines in its ability to host diverse cultural celebrations, offering spaces that adapt beautifully to different traditions while maintaining their historic character. The venue's experience with multicultural weddings ensures that every celebration receives the support and understanding it deserves.
The building's various rooms can be used in combination to create the perfect flow for celebrations that include multiple ceremonies or require separate spaces for different aspects of the day. This flexibility, combined with the venue's central London location, makes it ideal for bringing together families and traditions in sophisticated style.
Key Features for Cultural Celebrations: The venue offers comprehensive support for multicultural weddings:
Multiple ceremony spaces allow for different traditional elements
Adaptable room configurations supporting various cultural requirements
Extensive experience with cultural catering requirements
Dedicated prayer room facilities available upon request
Professional changing facilities for multiple outfits
Extended hire options for multi-day celebrations
Welcome approach to cultural decoration and personalisation
Photography at 116 Pall Mall Wedding Venue
The photographic opportunities at 116 Pall Mall are truly exceptional, offering a perfect blend of historic grandeur and architectural magnificence. Every corner of this Grade I listed building presents another stunning backdrop, from the sweeping ceremonial staircase to the glittering Nash Room chandeliers. The venue's variety of spaces ensures that whatever the weather or time of day, beautiful photography is assured.
External Photography Locations
The surrounding area of St James's provides an abundance of sophisticated backdrops for wedding photography. The prestigious location means couples can capture their celebrations against some of London's most iconic scenes, all within easy walking distance of the venue.
Steps from 116 Pall Mall, couples find themselves surrounded by historic architecture and elegant streetscapes. The building's own façade, with its impressive columns and grand entrance, creates a magnificent backdrop that speaks to the prestige of the location. Within minutes, wedding parties can access several of London's most photogenic locations:
Historic Surroundings:
St James's Park offers seasonal beauty and natural backdrops
Carlton Gardens provides elegant architectural settings
Waterloo Place presents dramatic ceremonial architecture
Historic Pall Mall creates sophisticated urban scenes
Surrounding period buildings add architectural interest
Internal Photography Features
Inside 116 Pall Mall, every room offers its own unique photographic possibilities. The venue's Georgian architecture provides a wealth of naturally beautiful settings, with period features and elegant proportions creating perfect backdrops for both formal portraits and candid moments.
The building's most impressive features become natural focuses for photography:
The grand staircase, with its sweeping lines and elegant balustrade
Beautifully appointed period rooms with original features
Magnificent chandeliers casting enchanting light
Tall windows providing excellent natural illumination
Stunning architectural details throughout
Seasonal Photography Considerations
Each season brings its own character to 116 Pall Mall, offering unique photographic opportunities throughout the year. Spring and summer weddings benefit from extended daylight hours and the possibility of using the external spaces more extensively. Autumn brings rich, warm light that complements the building's interior perfectly, while winter celebrations can take advantage of early evening light and the romantic atmosphere created by the venue's chandeliers and architectural lighting.
The venue's expert team can advise on making the most of different times of day and seasonal conditions, ensuring your photography captures both the grandeur of the setting and the joy of your celebration. Their experience means they can suggest optimal timing for key photographs, whether you're planning a summer evening celebration or a cozy winter wedding.
Frequently Asked Questions About 116 Pall Mall Weddings
Choosing 116 Pall Mall for Your Wedding
What makes 116 Pall Mall unique for weddings? 116 Pall Mall stands apart through its remarkable combination of historical significance, architectural splendour, and central London convenience. The Grade I listed Georgian venue offers couples the rare opportunity to celebrate in genuine period surroundings while enjoying modern amenities. The building's collection of original features, including magnificent chandeliers and authentic Georgian architecture, creates an atmosphere of timeless elegance that cannot be replicated elsewhere in London.
How many guests can the venue accommodate? The venue's flexibility allows it to host both intimate gatherings and grand celebrations with equal sophistication. The Nash Room, the largest space, can welcome up to 250 guests for ceremonies and evening receptions while comfortably seating 150 for wedding breakfasts. For more intimate celebrations, spaces such as the Carlton Room offer perfect proportions for 60-100 guests, ensuring every celebration feels perfectly scaled to its surroundings.
What are the ceremony options at 116 Pall Mall? Multiple rooms within 116 Pall Mall hold licenses for civil ceremonies, each offering its own unique character. The Nash Room provides a grand setting for up to 250 guests, while the Carlton Room offers a more intimate atmosphere for up to 100 guests. Each space features period details and excellent natural light, creating beautiful backdrops for your ceremony. The venue's experience with various ceremony styles ensures smooth coordination whether you're planning a civil ceremony, cultural celebration, or blessing.
Venue Services
What catering options does 116 Pall Mall offer? Searcys provides exclusive catering, offering bespoke menus, fine dining options, and flexible packages. They accommodate various dietary requirements and cultural preferences.
Are there getting ready facilities? Yes, elegant preparation rooms are available for both wedding parties, featuring natural light and space for hair and makeup artists.
Can you accommodate cultural ceremonies? The venue regularly hosts cultural celebrations, including Hindu weddings, Jewish ceremonies, and fusion events, with spaces adaptable for various traditional elements.
Whether planning an intimate celebration or a grand wedding, 116 Pall Mall offers an unparalleled setting in central London. The venue's combination of historical grandeur, central location, and flexible spaces makes it perfect for couples seeking a sophisticated city wedding venue with character.
You can learn more about hosting your wedding at 116 Pall Mall by visiting their website. And if you’d like to see examples of weddings I’ve photographed at this venue, check out my portfolio on my site.
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116 Pall Mall Weddings: More FAQs
1. How many guests can 116 Pall Mall hold?
The venue can host up to 300 guests for a reception and 250 for a seated dinner.
2. Is parking available?
There isn’t on-site parking, but there are public car parks nearby.
3. Can you hire the whole venue for your wedding?
Yes, exclusive hire is available, so you’ll have complete privacy on your big day.
4. Are outdoor spaces available for the ceremony?
The venue itself is indoors, but the nearby streets and surrounding areas offer great outdoor photo opportunities.
5. Does the venue offer wedding packages?
Yes, they have wedding packages that can be customised to suit your needs and budget.
6. How far in advance should I book?
It’s a good idea to book as early as possible, especially if you want a specific date during peak wedding season.
7. Can I bring my own caterer?
116 Pall Mall has an in-house catering team, so external caterers aren’t usually needed. However, it’s worth discussing any specific requirements with the venue.
8. Are there options for vegetarian or vegan menus?
Yes, the catering team can create menus to suit vegetarian, vegan, and other dietary needs.
9. Is the venue accessible for guests with disabilities?
Yes, 116 Pall Mall is wheelchair accessible and has facilities to accommodate guests with mobility issues.
10. Can we hold both the ceremony and reception at the venue?
Yes, many couples choose to hold both their ceremony and reception at 116 Pall Mall to keep everything in one place.
11. Does the venue have any restrictions on decorations?
Some restrictions may apply to protect the historic interiors, but the team will help you plan decorations that work for the space.
12. Can we have a live band or DJ?
Yes, live music and DJs are welcome. Be sure to check any sound restrictions with the venue.
13. Are there spaces for bridal preparation?
Yes, the venue can provide rooms for the bridal party to get ready on the day.
14. Does the venue have a bar?
Yes, there are fully stocked bars available, and drink packages can be arranged.
15. What’s the best time of year to get married at 116 Pall Mall?
The venue is stunning all year round, but it’s particularly beautiful in spring and winter when the decor and lighting create a magical atmosphere.
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