Here come the girls

A couple of weeks ago, around 500 brides-to-be (and me) descended upon The Old Sessions House in Clerkenwell, London, for one of the most eagerly anticipated wedding fairs of the season. This was, of course, none other than Zoe Lem’s Vintage Wedding Fair.

If you haven’t checked out the Grade II listed Old Sessions House before, it’s well worth a visit. In fact, if you’re looking for an art deco-inspired setting for your wedding reception, the ornate domed ceiling and grand staircase make it a beautiful spot to celebrate nuptials.

After admiring her work for so long, it was wonderful to finally meet Zoe in person. She was on hand all day – not only manning her stand but dishing out fashion advice to brides at the catwalk show. Having spent the last 15 years working as a stylist – with celeb clientele – Zoe knows a thing or two about dressing for your shape. Joined by vintage hair and make-up expert, Lipstick & Curls, she educated guests on different looks for the big day and I listened intently as she captured the crowd with her extensive knowledge of bridal fashion through the decades.

Model having her make-up done by the Lipstick & Curls team

Zoe informs brides-to-be about how to choose the right vintage gown for their shape

The fair showcased around 50 vintage-inspired suppliers, all of whom are clearly passionate about their work. While enjoying a glass of champers, followed by copious amounts of tea and cake, in the tearooms, I listened to the musical delights of ’40s-inspired duo The Bellinis, Lord Anthony’s Vintage Disco and big band My Gosh Marvellous.

The Bellinis

The stunning dresses on show came from the likes of Sally Lacock, Heavenly Vintage Brides, State of Grace and even Zoe herself. I fell in love with the new and beautiful vintage-inspired collection from Katya Katya Shehurina, while one of my all-time favourite designers, Suzannah, showcased both her cute daytime tea dresses and recent bridal range.

Not forgetting the finishing touches, there were stunning shoe designs from Emmy, a selection of beautiful brooch bouquets and stationery from The Finer Details, not mention the bundles of bunting, antique crockery and a whole host of other perfectly pretty details on show around the venue.

Needless to say, I left the show on a high; buzzing, inspired and with a belly full of tea and cake.

Psst… Zoe Lem will be hosting her next wedding fair at the prestigious new venue The Bloomsbury Ballroom in April 2013. Watch this space!

Danielle x

All photography courtesy of Rhapsody Road