Stanley Arts Wedding
Have you ever been to a wedding where the evening entertainment kicks off with a comedian undressing on stage, sticking a firework up his bum and lighting it? No, me neither, until Col & Beck’s bonkers Stanley Arts wedding. A ceremony in an old church in an abandoned village in Kent with live music and a ring bearing swan called Sheila, a buffet in the pouring rain, and the party to end all parties at Stanley Arts. Dive in to see more (including the fireworks… ) and read all about it
Colourful Wedding at Stanley Arts with a ceremony at Lost Village of Dode and music by The Trojans
Beck & Col have been together for what seems like forever, and finally tied the knot on a decidedly unsummery day in July 2023. I first met Beck & Col on the day I moved into a new flat in south east London in April 1999. As we walked in, Col was walking out with a giant papier-mâché pigeon under his arm. I lived in that flat for almost 10 years and in that time, lost count of the weird and wonderful creations Col made (as prop technician for the National Theatre, not just for fun.) He and Beck still live in that flat, part of a huge Victorian mansion. It’s been the home of musicians, artists, singers, actors, dancers, street performers etc (and legendary party throwers) for decades, founded in the early 80’s by Col and his pal Simon who was best man on the day. To this day it remains a centre of creativity in the area, and I feel fortunate to have lived there for so long, have so many great memories from there, and some lifelong friendships. Stanley Arts was a great choice for their wedding, and is an ideal venue for the live music they were bound to have. Col has played sax with ska legends, The Trojans, for years, playing Glastonbury every year as well as Gaz Mayall’s legendary Gaz’s Rockin Blues – London’s longest running one nighter in Soho. There was paella to keep everyone going, and a huge cake table to be plundered. On a personal level, it was an honour to document the wedding of two dear friends who I have known for the best part of 30 years, and to see them so surrounded by love. And amazing music. And THAT firework party piece.
Yes. Stanley Arts in South London operates on a flexible dry-hire basis. While they provide a list of recommended caterers to suit various budgets and styles, from formal sit-down meals and buffets to food trucks, you can generally bring in any caterer to match your needs.
Up to 180 for the wedding and lunch, and up to 300 for the evening reception.
There certainly is.
Sadly not, only assistance dogs are permitted inside the hall.
London Overground: Norwood Junction is on the East London Line of London Overground from Highbury & Islington to West Croydon via Dalston Junction. A number of buses stop right outside. There are three car parks in easy reach (Station Road, Belgrave Road and Clifford Road). The local street parking is mainly metered but free in the evenings. There is some free street parking on Southern Avenue and adjoining streets up the hill from Stanley Arts, but the venue ask that you use public transport wherever possible. A Routemaster bus can stop outside.
Stanley Arts
12 South Norwood Hill
London
SE25 6AB
Contact the team on 020 8251 0184 or bookings@stanleyarts.org
Yes, you can. It will be a registrar from Croydon Council who comes to take the ceremony. Contact Croydon Registrars: Email MarriageEnquiries@croydon.gov.uk or call 020 8726 6300 to confirm their availability for your specific date and time before officially booking the venue.
Many of the spaces are suitable for wheelchair users and buggies. Accessible toilets and baby changing facilities are available.
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Suppliers for Stanley Arts Wedding – dry hire south London wedding venue
Ceremony venue – Lost Village of Dode // Reception – Stanley Arts // Band – The Trojans // Comedian and firework legend – Chris Lynam
See more colourful, London weddings with a big focus on music and good times
Wherever you’re getting married, and whatever kind of celebration you’re planning, I’d love to document your day