As you step into the whirlwind of wedding planning, we know that your mind might be spinning with questions faster than a perfectly choreographed first dance. To put your mind at ease, we’ve gathered the most common questions and answered them to help you navigate tying the knot at The Brewery. Let's dive in and tackle some of the frequently asked questions, ensuring your wedding planning journey is both enjoyable and stress-free.

Can I provisionally hold the date?

Sure! We can provisionally hold the date while we arrange a visit to the venue and give you and your partner time to make the important decision on your venue. 

Does the venue have space for a ceremony and reception?

We have the capacity to host both the wedding ceremony and reception for 40 to 600 guests in our various spaces, eliminating the inconvenience of location changes. Learn more about our wedding venues here.

Do I have exclusive use of the venue?

While exclusive use isn't guaranteed, we prioritise limited weekend events, making overlaps unlikely. In the rare case of concurrent events, we'll carefully coordinate timings to ensure a seamless experience for everyone. Your special day is our priority, and we're here to make it unforgettable.

How do I book my ceremony?

Prior to confirming your ceremony with us, contact Islington Council to confirm your date. You can do this by following the link. Once you've booked, the council will guide you through the details and preparations for your special day.

Could you provide an example wedding day schedule?

09:00    Suppliers onsite to weave their magic
14:30    Guests start to arrive 
14:40    Interview with the Registrar for one half of the couple
14:50    Next, the other’s turn
15:00    Ceremony commences
15:30    Confetti throw, photographs, reception drinks & canapés
17:00    Call to dinner
17.20    Newlyweds make their entrance into the dining room
17.30    Wedding breakfast
19:00    Speeches
19:30    Evening reception begins
20:00    Cake cutting & first dance
21:30    Evening snacks 
00.30    Last song concludes & the bar closes
01:00    Celebration concludes, guests depart & you live happily-ever-after!

Does the venue have in-house catering?

We do! Our award-winning catering is all produced in-house by our talented chefs. Unless you choose a dry-hire arrangement with our list of preferred caterers offering specific cuisines, we will provide all the food and drinks for your special day.

Can we bring in an external caterer if we have specific culinary preferences?

You can! If you opt for a dry venue hire, you have the freedom to select from our list of preferred caterers, known for their Indian, African, and Kosher cuisine. If you wish to explore caterers not on our list, we are open to it, provided they are approved by us in advance.

What is the menu for our wedding breakfast and are tastings available?

Our menus change seasonally and feature locally sourced ingredients that are bursting with flavour, offering a selection of dishes including meat, fish, veggie, and vegan options. You can expect an invitation to a menu tasting 2 to 3 months before your wedding date. During the tasting, you will have the opportunity to sample each dish, along with some canapés and a selection of wines. Feel free to express any preferences or request any customisations to the menus; our chefs will work with you to create an unforgettable dining experience.

Can I bring in my own suppliers, or do I have to use the venue’s recommended suppliers?

We only ask that all external caterers are approved by us. You are welcome to book any suppliers you’d like directly. However, we will need to be made aware of all of your chosen suppliers prior to your special day. Prior to confirming bookings, please ensure that suppliers have Public Liability Insurance and PAT testing for any equipment they bring in. Additionally, for production or rigging, we need method statements and risk assessments. If you are considering booking production/lighting or décor, please check with us before finalising any arrangements.

 Is there a cake-cutting fee?

There is no fee to cut your cake and serve it to your guests.

What furniture is included in the rental fee?

We have a variety available for you to use, including limewash Chiavari or black banqueting chairs, round or long tables, white LED bars, a cake table, high poseur tables, low poseur tables, tables for the guest book or gifts. Additionally, black or white linen, napkins, crockery, cutlery, and glassware are included.

If you are interested in exploring additional furniture such as sofas, bar areas, or alternative wedding chairs, we're here to assist!  We work with a range of suppliers, and you can download a copy of our furniture brochure to flick through here.

You are also welcome to organise the hire of your own furniture.

Is The Brewery a child-friendly venue?

Yes, absolutely! Your little ones are welcome to join the celebration. We simply request that there is always an adult present for supervision. We offer a children's package for those under 12 years old. For babies who won't be having a meal, there won't be a charge for a package, but we will need them included in the table count, with consideration given to the potential space required for a stroller. We are also able to provide highchairs for children during the wedding breakfast if needed.

Can we have live music in the venue?

We love having live music at the venue! Live music needs to conclude in the Sugar Rooms and Porter Tun by 23:00, and then the DJ can take over. In all other spaces, live music can continue until the end of the event.

Does the venue have step-free access?

The Brewery is completely DDA compliant, with lifts servicing all floors and accessible toilets on the ground and lower ground floor. The Smeaton Vaults and Queen Charlotte rooms have step-free access via another room. We also have a limited amount of blue badge parking spaces available to reserve opposite the main Brewery entrance.

How many restrooms does the venue have?

Each floor has a set of toilets for each gender with 4 to 8 cubicles in each bathroom. These can also be made gender neutral on request.

Is The Brewery near public transport?

Reaching The Brewery via public transport is quick and easy, thanks to its central London location. We are located approximately 5 minutes away from Moorgate and Barbican stations, and 10 minutes away from Liverpool Street station. We are also served by at least 10 bus routes.

Is there parking available for guests?

We can provide up to 4 parking spaces for the couple upon request, located across the street from the main entrance. A wedding car can also be parked in the courtyard for the duration of the wedding.

Guest parking is available at the NCP car park at Finsbury Square and the CitiPark London Barbican car park. These car parks are approximately a 5-minute walk from The Brewery and offer plenty of parking spaces.

Do you have bedrooms onsite?

We do not have onsite accommodation available. The Brewery's central location provides proximity to a range of hotels, ranging from premium budget options to 5-star luxury. Check out where to stay here.

The Brewery site is shared by The Montcalm at The Brewery London City, a 5-star hotel with 235 bedrooms. (Please note that The Montcalm Hotel is operated by The Montcalm Luxury Hotels and not The Brewery on Chiswell Street Limited). For the convenience of our couples and their friends and family, we work closely with this hotel. Spending the night, especially before the ceremony or after a day filled with celebrations, offers a comfortable option to conclude your nuptials.

Can I tour the venue before booking?

Viewings can be booked by giving us a call or dropping us an email - get in touch here.

Back to blog