Wedding season is back in full swing in 2021, after months of cancelled caterers and rearranged gown fittings.
From Euro royals to hotel heiresses, scores of well-heeled brides and their dashing grooms exchanged vows in some of the world’s most desirable locations, from a Sicilian church (Irene Forte) to a sprawling family ranch in upstate New York (Jennifer Gates).
Lockdown restrictions were a major factor in 2020 being the year of micro nuptials. However, big white weddings reigned supreme in 2021.
Princess Diana’s niece Lady Kitty Spencer and fashion tycoon Michael Lewis spent an estimated £1million on their four-day Roman extravaganza, complete with a wardrobe full of custom D&G gowns.
So big was Prince Philippos, a Greek prince who had three separate weddings to commemorate his union to Nina Flohr.
There are some people who believe that ‘less is better’. India Hicks, Prince Charles’s goddaughter and David Flint Wood were married in September. They had been together for 26 years. It was a beautiful church in Oxfordshire.
With so many weddings to choose from, how do you decide who is the best? FEMAIL presents its first awards for the most memorable and sensational weddings of the year.
Most long-lasting courtship
India Hicks & David Flint Wood: Wed after 26 years together and with five children
It was worth the wait: Prince Charles’s goddaughter, India Hicks, married David Flint Wood in September, after 26 years of being her partner.
India and David are a family affair. Their five children were joined at the Brightwell Baldwin Parish Church service in Oxfordshire by their mother Patricia Mountbatten and her daughter Domino.
Low-key: After the church service the congregation strolled across the road to the Lord Nelson pub for Bloody Marys, Pimm’s and lunch, pictured. Dinner and dancing were the main event.
India Hicks, David Flint Wood and their five children have shared 26 years together. It’s easy to forgive them for being OTT at their wedding.
India, one Princess Diana’s bridesmaids opted instead for a “very traditional service” in Brightwell Baldwin. In fact, she even chose the church where India was born.
India wrote that the ceremony reflected the English tradition of weddings and included a choir, an organist, and other elements.
Among the guests were Brooke Shields and Christian Louboutin, friends, and Sophie Dahl, members of India’s connected family. Louis Mountbatten (1st Earl, Burma) was her grandfather.
Welsey drove the bride to the ceremony and Felix walked her down the aisle. Chief bridesmaid for Domino was Emilia Wickstead. She also designed the wedding gown.
The congregation made their way to Lord Nelson for Bloody Marys and Pimm’s after the service. After the service, dinner and dancing took place.
Biggest BASH
Lady Kitty Spencer and Michael Lewis: A weekend extravaganza with five D&G dresses
There is more to life! The lavish July wedding of Lady Kitty Spencer, husband Michael Lewis was a spectacular display with fireworks. For the long-weekend wedding, D&G created five different custom creations, including the breathtaking Victorian-inspired lace gown, pictured, she wore down the aisle
Designer wardrobe: The night before the wedding, Kitty wore a baby-blue tulle gown and cape embroidered with cross-stitched flowers also made for her by Dolce & Gabbana. The jewels were from the designer’s high jewellery collection, with the necklace thought to be worth at least £500,000 (left). The designer also had a glamorous gold evening dress that could be worn all night. An expert estimates each of these looks would have cost in the region of £60,000, if not more
It’s all about keeping the fun alive! Kitty (right), joined her close friends for lunch on Monday following the wedding.
The spectacular fireworks show to the top-notch venue were just a few of the many highlights that Lady Kitty Spencer (and husband Michael Lewis) included in their extravagant July wedding in Rome.
One expert estimated the four-day extravaganza, which included a rehearsal dinner, day-after lunch and the main event at a £20,000-a-day castle, would have cost the bride and groom in excess of £1million.
The same is true of socialite Kitty’s stunning wardrobe, which is thought to have been worth more than £2.5million.
For the long-weekend wedding, D&G created five different custom creations, including the breathtaking Victorian-inspired lace gown she wore down the aisle.
They were worn with necklaces, earrings and rings of the exclusive Alta Gioielleria collection. Prices for these diamond and jewel-encrusted pieces are not publicly available but start from £25,000, and raise to approximately £510,000 for top-of-the-range necklace.
Emma, Pixielott, Pixie Lott as well as designer Jade Holland Cooper (and her husband Julian Dunkerton), were some of the invited guests.
Kitty and Michael spent a month traveling across Europe including several weeks along the Amalfi Coast, continuing their honeymoon spending.
MOST TIMES DOWN TH AISLE
Prince Philippos of Greece and Nina Flohr: Three weddings in three countries
Triple the fun The godson of Prince Charles, Prince Philippos from Greece, loves Nina Flohr so deeply that he wed her in only one year. Above, the largest ceremony took place in Athens on October.
The nuptials were attended by the following royal guests: Jack Brooksbank (Prince Eugenie), Princess Beatrice, and Edoardo Maglio Mozzi.
Wedding No.1…and Wedding Number 2! The couple first wed last December in a small civil ceremony in St Moritz, Switzerland, left, with just their fathers present due to Covid-19 restrictions. The couple celebrated in Cambridge again in May (right).
Prince Charles, Prince Philippos and Nina Flohr are so in love with each other that he wed them three times in just one year.
The couple, who both boast ties to British royalty and aristocracy, first wed last December in a small civil ceremony in St Moritz, Switzerland, with just their fathers King Konstantin, 80, and Thomas Flohr, 60, present due to Covid-19 restrictions.
The couple got married in May with another low-key ceremony hosted by Alice Naylor Leyland (Vogue) and Tom Leyland (Harton House, Cambridgeshire).
Alice, named Tatler’s 2018’society Swans’, and Tom, her husband, were among those in attendance. Tom is an heir to one Britain’s land-owning family dynasties. His family holds historic land and properties throughout the country.
He is the son and grandson of Sir Philip Naylor Leyland, Baronet and Lord Lambton.
Violet Henderson (magazine editor) and Caroline Rupert, Princess Eugenie’s friend, were also invited.
The crowning glory was the couple’s October nuptials at the Metropolitan Cathedral of Athens, which was attended by Princess Eugenie and Princess Beatrice, as well as Queen Sofia of Spain.
MOST DRAMATIC CONSEQUENCES
Princess Mako, Japan and KeiKomuro: She gave up her title in order to marry her university sweetheart
For love, the former Princess Mako, Japan’s princess, gave up her position and royal title to marry Kei Komuro, her university boyfriend. After their wedding, the couple held a press conference (above).
Apologies: After registering their marriage, the newlyweds held a press conference in a somberly-decorated hotel function room which they paid for, in which they apologised for any distress that their union has caused, above
Many couples end up making compromises on the big day, from the location of the venue to the names of the guests.
The former Princess Mako, Japan’s princess, was the one who had to make the most of her position and royal title to marry Kei Komuro, her university boyfriend.
Mako, 30, eldest daughter of Crown Prince Fumihito and niece of reigning Emperor Naruhito, registered her marriage to Mr Komuro in Tokyo in October. It was a private and quiet affair, far away from traditional Japanese royal weddings. The scandal over Komuro’s financial past led to widespread opposition to the union.
There is a dispute over whether Komuro’s mother owes her former fiancé money. He claims that he gifted her money to help her son with his education, but she says it was a loan.
Komuro released a statement after Mako announced their engagement. It is unclear whether the dispute was resolved.
Following the registration of their marriage, they held a press conference at a darkly furnished hotel function space, which they had paid for. They thanked everyone for their troubles and apologized.
Since then, the couple has moved into a 1-bedroom apartment in New York where Komuro is a lawyer.
BIGGEST SURPRISE
Boris Johnson, Carrie Johnson, and Boris Johnson kept their plans a secret. They finally announced that they were getting married.
Secret ceremony: Carrie and Boris Johnson surprised the world when they tied the knot in a ‘small ceremony’ at Westminster Cathedral on May 29, after the event was the subject of an extraordinary cloak-and-dagger operation to keep it quiet
Barefoot bride: Carrie wore a £2,870 Costarellos embroidered tulle gown with tiered skirt, fitted bodice, bell sleeves and latticework trims for the big day. Photo: Carrie cuddling up with her husband, who is casually dressed for the photo shoot at Downing Street
Boris Johnson and Carrie Johnson shocked the entire world by tying the knot on May 29 at Westminster Cathedral. This was after the occasion had been the subject of an unusual cloak-and dagger operation.
After exchanging vows with Father Daniel Humphreys (who baptized Wilfred in the faith last fall at the same cathedral), they exchanged their kisses. He also gave the newlyweds their pre-marriage instructions.
Following the service, there was a reception with festival themes in Downing Street’s garden. This was a recent headline-grabbing event after Prime Minister Tony Blair was captured at a wine and cheese ‘work’ event in the middle of lockdown restrictions.
The bride, 33, who recently gave birth to daughter Romy, wore a £2,870 Costarellos embroidered tulle gown with tiered skirt, fitted bodice, bell sleeves and latticework trims for the big day. Later, she took off her shoes to snuggle up with her husband who wore an unbuttoned shirt collar with rolled sleeves for photographs.
Wilfred Johnson, the couple’s one-year old son, attended as did two other witnesses. Mr Johnson’s sibling’s Rachel, Jo and Leo Johnson are also understood to have been invited, along with his father Stanley.
According to reports, Mr. and Mrs Johnson have plans for a larger celebration next summer.
CHICEST BRIDE
Alexandre Arnault and Geraldine Guyot – LVMH scion wed his very stylish bride
Fashion darling: Géraldine Guyot was stunning in a high collared, long-sleeved dress with an embroidered, figure-hugging bodice and full satin skirt to wed Alexandre Arnault, 29, son of LVMH founder Bernard Arnault in Venice in October
Understated chic: Géraldine’s look for the first ceremony in Paris in July was also breathtaking, with the bride choosing a simple, vintage-inspired dress by JW Anderson featuring a high collar, long sleeves, puffed shoulders, and floral embroidery
The marriage of the son and third wealthiest man on the planet was bound to become a chic affair.
Alexandre Arnault, 29, the second oldest son of LVMH chairman and CEO Bernard Arnault, wed Géraldine Guyot, founder of French accessories brand D’Estrëe, in Paris in July, followed by a second service in Venice in October.
Alexandre is the executive vice president of LVMH brand Tiffany & Co., having previously served as CEO of Rimowa. His father Bernard was the first man to surpass Jeff Bezos as the richest person in the world.
The newlyweds, who announced their engagement at the start of the year, put on a typically elegant display at the ‘main’ Venice wedding, with Géraldine stunning in a high collared, long-sleeved dress with an embroidered, figure-hugging bodice and full satin skirt. An exquisite lace veil finished the look.
They had stiff competition from fashionable guests, including Jay-Z and Beyoncé, who appear in a new campaign for Tiffany.
Géraldine’s look for the first ceremony was also breathtaking, with the bride choosing a simple, vintage-inspired dress by JW Anderson featuring a high collar, long sleeves, puffed shoulders, and subtle floral embroidery.
Alexandre posted a photograph of their first romantic dance together on Instagram.
The pair are utterly besotted, with Géraldine posting after the wedding: ‘Oui pour la vie!’
BEST OUTFIT MODE
Hugo Davies and Lady Jemima: A journey from proper and prim to proper party
Lady Jemima was quite the lady. In a Victoriana-inspired dress and her family tiara she looked prim and proper as she got married to Hugo Davies, her insurance broker husband.
Party ready: Lady Jemima, the 31-year-old daughter of the late 17th Earl of Pembroke and Miranda, Countess of Pembroke, had swapped her heels for trainers and her covered-up dress for a dancefloor-ready two-piece
Prim and proper in a Victoriana-inspired gown and a family tiara, Lady Jemima Herbert was every inch the demure bride as she tied the knot with her insurance broker beau Hugo Davies in August.
This stunning gown had a beautiful high collar and semi-sheer long sleeves. The waist was decorated with delicate floral embroidery. For the day’s final look, a relaxed low bun was added.
It was quite different if you fast forward a few hours.
Lady Jemima, the 31-year-old daughter of the late 17th Earl of Pembroke and Miranda, Countess of Pembroke, had swapped her heels for trainers and her covered-up dress for a dancefloor-ready two-piece.
As Lady Kitty Spencer partied with her friends, the white bias-cut satin midi skirt featured ruffle detailing and showed off her leg. The matching one-shoulder top with matching asymmetrical shoulder detail gave an indication of her toned stomach.
Due to pandemic, the Wilton House in Wiltshire was the site of the event.
Lady Jemima is a natural at letting her hair down. She said farewell to her single life in July with a Legally Blonde-themed hen party in London.
MOST Stylish Guests
Belen Corsini & Count of Osorno – Quirky, fabulous Spanish society royal looks
Wedding party: Bridesmaids, pageboys and bridesmaids joined the newlyweds in casual summer outfits.
Dressed to impress: The groom’s brother the Duke of Huescar and his wife Sofia, arriving at the Spanish wedding in May
Fashion show: Enrique Solíis and designer Alejandra Dominguez (left) and Brianda Fitz-James Stuart, the Duke of Alba’s niece
The society’s wedding was bright and beautiful. Alejandra Corsini (interior designer) and Alejandro Munoz (designer) arrived hand-in-hand
Bold: Ines Domecq, designer of Ines Dress, pulled off a bold look in a sky-blue dress with structured shoulders and exaggerated structure
Although no one wishes to be the center of attention on the wedding day, it was not in the best interest for the bride. However, guests attending one of Spain’s most exclusive weddings came very close.
In May, Carlos Fitz-James Stuart y Solís, the Count of Osorno, wed his fiancée Belén Corsini at Liria Palace in Madrid, an 18th century estate that has been in Carlos’ family for centuries, bringing together two of Spain’s wealthiest families, the Albas and the Corsinis.
Belén looked breathtaking in a figure-skimming white gown by Spanish brand Navascués with playful puff shoulders, long sleeves and a delicate detachable tulle train topped with family heirloom fabric from her maternal grandmother.
The bride was typically understated. She chose simple accessories for her makeup, hair, and beauty. Her hair was slicked back and pinned with a sparkling hairpiece.
Meanwhile the groom Carlos looked dashing in the Gala uniform of the Real Maestranza de Caballería de Sevilla (RMS), or the Royal Cavalry Armory of Seville, a chivalric order created in 1670 currently led by King Felipe of Spain.
The guests were equally impeccable with their style, as they wore dazzling jumpsuits, dresses, and suits to make their entrance.
Among the standout ensembles was the quirky orange and purple look sported by designer and artist Alejandra Dominguez, who attended with Enrique Solíis, and interior designer Alejandra Corsini’s purple floral co-ord.
Best Destination Wedding
Irene Forte and Felix Winckler: A Sicilian celebration with fireworks and nods to local culture
Bellissima! Irene, Sir Rocco Forte’s daughter, celebrated her nuptials in Sicily with Felix Winckler (tech whiz Felix Winckler), a year after she and he tied the knot in London.
Small details: Guests were welcomed by a brass ensemble upon arriving at the local stone church, in rural Sicily.
Nods to culture: The rural church, left, and the traditional horse-drawn carts, complete with ornate harnesses
Illuminating the Night: This venue was lit up with Sicilian lightings that were similar to Christmas lights. It also featured the couple’s initials. A spectacular display of fireworks ended the night.
Sir Rocco Forte’s child Irene was married to tech whizz Felix Winckler at a luxurious destination wedding in Sicily – one year after their low-key London ceremony.
The Oxford graduate, 31, who is Wellness Director at her family’s £340million hotel empire and founder of Irene Forte Skincare, pulled out all the stops the second time around, treating guests including Princess Eugenie and Jack Brooksbank to a beautiful wedding weekend packed with local culture.
They arrived at the church on foot, and were welcomed by a brass ensemble.
Inside, the aisle was lined with wildflower displays and Irene turned heads in a stunning cream lace gown with puff sleeves and a flowing antique white veil by designer Luisa Beccaria.
The dinner was based on Macco di Fave, Prawns From Mazara Del Vallo, and Mashed Potatoes. It was prepared by Fulvio Pierangelini, an internationally renowned chef.
This venue was decorated using Sicilian illuminations similar to Christmas lights. It also featured the initials of the couple. It ended with spectacular fireworks displays.
Best Wedding at Home
Jennifer Gates and Nayel Nassar: A lavish wedding fit for a tech heiress
Blushing bride Jennifer Gates, 25, the eldest child of billionaires Bill and Melinda, wore an ivory long-sleeved A-line gown with hand appliqué French macrame lace by Vera Wang for her wedding to Nayel Nassar, pictured, in upstate New York
Second dress: Very Wang’s wedding gown designer, Issa Rahe and Gwen Stefani, has shared two photographs taken by Allan Zepeda. This includes Jennifer’s trumpet-lace gown that she wore to the evening party.
Microsoft heiress Jennifer Gates married Nayel Nassar, 30, in a beautiful ceremony in October at her home in Westchester, New York.
DailyMail.com exclusively revealed that it was the second nuptials she had performed with the Egyptian equestrian. She previously married the Egyptian equestrian in a private Muslim religious ceremony Friday night.
The private Muslim ceremony was held on Friday night in the garden of the family’s 142-acre estate in North Salem, New York where a much larger civil ceremony with 300 guests took place on Saturday afternoon.
Jennifer’s father Bill danced with her to Can You Feel The Love Tonight after the Saturday wedding.
Jennifer, 25, the eldest child of billionaires Bill and Melinda, wore an ivory long-sleeved A-line gown with hand appliqué French macrame lace for the outdoor ceremony in upstate New York before slipping into a lace trumpet gown with a square neckline for the evening reception.
Wang, known for creating wedding dresses for stars including Gwen Stefani and Issa Rae, shared two photos taken by wedding photographer Allan Zepeda and published by Vogue alongside a message wishing Jennifer and Nayel, 30, ‘a lifetime of happiness and joy’.