THE CITY BUZZ

Eat, drink, shop and be pampered!

Editor, Sarah Gallivan explores all that the Portman Marylebone community has to offer for nearlyweds or newlyweds!

If you’re not jetting off to warmer climes straight after your big day, taking time out as a married couple locally is a great idea! Couples in London are fortunate because you don’t have to go far to do just that. I headed to the Portman Marylebone community in London’s West End to experience what this chic neighbourhood has to offer for that all-important post-wedding break.

The Portman Estate’s 110 acres of Marylebone includes Chiltern Street, New Quebec Street, Seymour Place, Duke Street, Dorset Street, Blandford Street, Manchester Square and Portman Square. These streets are brimming with wedding inspiration – from bridal boutiques and tailors through to jewellers, milliners and hair and beauty boutiques. Being just a stone’s throw from the hustle and bustle of Oxford Street too, not only is this the perfect minimoon location, it’s also the place to be for a pre-wedding planning trip. Add its range of bars, coffee shops, fine restaurants, and numerous places to stay into the mix and it’s safe to say that this area of the city has it all. So, whether it’s a minimoon break with fine dining and cocktails or a weekend away with your best girls to put your plans into action, check it out! Find out more: www.portmanmarylebone.com

REST YOUR HEAD

The Zetter Townhouse Marylebone - We had the pleasure of staying at The Zetter Townhouse, a stunning 24-bedroom boutique hotel situated on Seymour Street. This Georgian townhouse and cocktail lounge is a hidden gem brimming with individuality. If you’re looking for that extra-special accommodation for your minimoon, this is it – it was an absolute treat! Double rooms start at £279 per night and junior suites are priced from £399 per night. Find out more: https://thezetter.com/townhouse-marylebone

Hyatt Regency London – The Churchill – Steeped in authentic British charm, this hotel honours Sir Winston Churchill with bespoke design details and refined décor that gives a nod to his legacy. There are 440 bedrooms here, including 50 suites and weddings can take place in the stunning ballroom. Find out more: www.hyatt.com

SHOP ‘TILL YOU DROP

During our stay I visited a number of the independent boutiques to see what was on offer for weddings and I was spoilt for choice! Here’s a snapshot… Suzannah London – Inspired by Parisian and American vintage couture, Suzannah offers a couture collection of dresses, coats and gowns for the mother-of-the-bride and bridal party as well as her own dedicated bridal collection. Find out more: www.suzannah.com

John Boyd Hats – I was privileged to meet Sarah Marshall, owner and creative director. There’s nothing that Sarah doesn’t know about finding the perfect style and design of hat for your special day. All creations are impeccably crafted and Sarah loves working with her clients to bring their visions to life. Find out more: www.johnboydhats.co.uk

Cox & Power - Creators of modern jewellery, Cox & Power’s innovative designs feature pieces in Fairtrade metal, 18ct gold and silver with unusual-coloured gemstones. If you’re on the search for your wedding rings or bridal accessories with a difference, you’ll be in expert hands here. Find out more: https://coxandpower.com

Dashing Tweeds - This British designer and tailor of contemporary tweed offers ready-towear collections alongside made-to-measure services. Grooms can choose from the array of Dashing Tweed’s very own cloth designs, tailored into a range of different styles to feel a million dollars on their special day. Find out more: www.dashingtweeds.co.uk

Bharti Vyas - If you’re in need of a pamper, the Bharti Vyas treatment experiences are perfect. I sampled the 85-minute Harmonising top to toe treatment, created to help you achieve optimal wellbeing with glowing skin, a vital immune system, clarity of mind and a sense of energy. After a day of shopping, this was the perfect pick-me-up! Find out more: www.bharti-vyas.com

Daisy Green – On arrival at Marylebone our first stop was the chic Daisy Green for coffee and their famous Lamington Aussie-inspired cakes. This would be another great place to visit with your best girls to sample their spectacular bottomless brunches! Find out more: www.daisygreenfood.com

EAT, DRINK AND BE MERRY

London Grace - Founded in 2015, London Grace combines a nail bar, cocktail bar and coffee shop and offers environmentally friendly treatments. Head here with your hens for a manicure and cocktails to get your nails looking perfect for your wedding. Find out more: www.londongrace.co.uk

Grazing Goat – We enjoyed lunch at this buzzing gastro pub. The country-house setting created a relaxed vibe and not only that, weddings of up to 60 can also be hosted here in the airy first-floor dining room. Find out more: www.cubitthouse.co.uk/the-grazing-goat Clarette London – Dinner at Clarette was amazing! This stylish restaurant and wine bar offers a range of French dishes with a twist. The food, wine and service were second to none and would be the perfect choice for a romantic dinner for two or with its private dining rooms, a pre-wedding celebration. Find out more: www.clarettelondon.com

A.O.K – A.O.K oozes elegance. The restaurant offers private dining making it perfect for a break away with your loved ones and the service and cuisine is delicious. We enjoyed breakfast here and highly recommend the pancakes – they were the best I’ve ever tasted! Find out more: www.aokkitchen.co.uk