Getting Married in Room 99 at Islington Town Hall
Islington Town Hall is an historic place to get married and just happens to be one of the most beautiful. I’ve lived a 15 minute walk away from this iconic wedding venue for 20 years, I was married here myself and every time I walk past I’m still impressed.
So, let’s talk about Room 99, one of their most popular ceremony rooms. It’s perfect for groups of about 20 and feels light and airy with elegant decor. I love it because it has lovely big windows and all that light makes for great photos. I've included photos here from three recent wedding in Room 99 to give you a feel for the space, inside and outside, and the kind of photos I like to take.
Pets are welcome! I was shooting a wedding there yesterday and saw a couple with a gorgeous dachshund, complete with bow-tie (I so want a dog!) though I’ve never seen anything other than dogs there, so if you want to bring your pet python you might want to check.
Your Arrival at Islington Town Hall
Chauffeured cars, taxis and private hire buses can stop outside the building to drop off and collect couples or guests, but they don’t have general parking available. There is a paid car park at the Business Design Centre near Angel but that’s a bit of a walk away.
Be there with your guests at least 15 mins before your ceremony time. When you arrive, check in with the staff on the desk so they know you’re here - don’t just wait outside for them to get you. On busy days there will be a lot of people around with multiple ceremonies happening in different rooms at the same time, so it’s important you make yourself known as the staff won’t go searching for you.
First look before the Ceremony
Some of my couples like to do a “first look” before they’re married, where they see each other for the first time on their wedding day. Since you’ll probably be interviewed together you’ll need to do this a few minutes before you check in with the front desk. It’s a bit tricky to coordinate as you need to arrive separately and avoid bumping into each other. I suggest that one of you waits in front of the building and the other is dropped off around the side (to the right as you look at the building). I’ll go between both of you, bring you close to the corner of the building, then have one of you turn around while I bring the other closer for the big reveal! It’s a nice moment.
Your Ceremony In Room 99
When it’s time they’ll take you and your partner into Room 99 for your pre-ceremony interview (yes, the same room you’ll be married in) while your guests will be shown to a different room to wait for you. When your interview is over you’ll be shown to another room to wait for your guests to move to Room 99 and when the registrars are ready to go, you’ll be welcomed back in for the actual ceremony.
After The Ceremony
After the ceremony and a bit of hugging and congratulating, I like to get everyone outside for the confetti and any group shots on the steps. On busy days there will be a lot going on outside. Somehow (I’m not sure how they do it) the wonderful staff at the Town Hall manage to plan things so everyone gets their time on the steps - but it is limited - so we will be organised and make room for the next wedding party.
Then I’ll take the couple back inside for a few shots and back out for a few shots in the street. I know some very cool spots for photos close by so your guests won't be waiting long.
And that’s it! Many wedding parties then walk down Upper Street (aka "Cuppa Street" as it's famous for its bars and restaurants) to their reception venue. I am a big fan of Bellanger, Mr Lobo and Bubba Oasis. Whether it’s just the two of you a large party, if you need recommendations for local restaurants or bars on Upper Street let me know - I’ve been to most of them!
To book Room 99 at Islington Town Hall for your wedding click here.
If you have any questions let in touch. Once you send your enquiry you'll be able to download a free copy of my very useful Wedding Guide.
"We can't recommend Gary enough! Not only did he capture our wedding day beautifully (seriously, the photos look like they came straight out of a magazine!), but he was also incredibly helpful during the planning process. Even though we're not exactly models, he made us feel completely at ease in front of the camera and knew exactly how to get the best shots. Thank you for everything, Gary!"
—Krishna and Marek
YOUR LONDON BASED DOCUMENTARY WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER
If you're looking for more than just posed photographs, if you want your wedding day to be documented authentically, capturing real emotions and heartfelt connections – then you've found your documentary wedding photographer. Get in touch and let's create memories together. If you want to know more about me, click here.
