Summer Elegance at Syon Park blending culture and romance

Set across two of London’s most striking venues, Yiki and Stephen’s wedding captured by TAMMY SHUN was a masterclass in blending modern elegance with deeply personal meaning. From their heartfelt church ceremony in Chelsea to the breathtaking glass conservatory reception at SYON PARK, every moment was layered with intentional design, cultural heritage, and undeniable joy. Their love story, which began over a decade ago during Freshers’ Week at UCL, set the tone for a day that honored their past while celebrating the beginning of their future.

Twelve years ago, amid the buzz of Freshers’ Week at UCL, Yiki and Stephen met over casual drinks, and a conversation that flowed with ease marked the beginning of something lasting. Their friendship grew steadily, from library study sessions to nights out in the West End, and what started casually evolved into a love that stood the test of time and change.

Following the long pause of Covid lockdowns, their first big trip took them to Dubai—already meaningful just by being their first shared adventure in a while. On a soft, golden evening walk along the beach at their hotel on The Palm, Stephen proposed. It was intimate and perfect, followed by a private dinner curated with personal touches that made the moment unforgettable.

Choosing SYON PARK as their reception venue brought the vision for their wedding to life. Its soaring glass conservatory, flooded with natural light and surrounded by manicured gardens, offered timeless elegance within reach of central London. It also echoed a cherished early date in nearby Kew Gardens. The ceremony itself took place at the serene and beautifully designed Our Most Holy Redeemer in Chelsea, a calm and grounding setting for the couple’s sacred vows.

The morning of the wedding was peaceful yet charged with excitement. Yiki and her bridesmaids got ready in the lavish wings of Syon House, where soft light and elegant interiors provided the perfect backdrop for portraits and quiet moments. Meanwhile, Stephen and his groomsmen kept things relaxed at their flat before heading to the church.

Yiki wore a custom-made GALIA LAHAV gown, adaptable for different moments throughout the day with detachable sleeves, veil, and train. Her bridesmaids shone in satin gold dresses they chose themselves, while Stephen looked sharp in a custom white tuxedo made in Hong Kong. The couple designed their stationery in a soft palette of creams, taupes, and gold, printing them in Hong Kong and carefully bringing them home—a true labor of love.

Sarah from THE PETAL EMPORIUM created floral arrangements inspired by soft late-summer skies: whites, nudes, peaches, and hints of mauve and blue. The look was refined and flowing, with plush blooms styled in a luxe modern classic manner. Orchids were subtly woven in as a nod to the couple’s Chinese and Sri Lankan heritage.

The Catholic service in Chelsea was heartfelt and musically rich, accompanied by live organ and vocalists. Flowers in soft, neutral tones framed the altar, complementing the serenity of the church without overpowering it. The ceremony was moving, intimate, and filled with emotion.

Following the ceremony, guests were whisked to Syon Park by wedding bus, greeted with drinks and a guided tour of the historic house. Though rain made a brief appearance, the mood stayed festive with live music, custom cocktails, and garden games once the sun returned. The couple took advantage of the light for photos in the charming courtyard.

The conservatory glowed with golden sunset light as guests took their seats for the wedding breakfast. Elegant centerpieces, candlelight, and a menu designed with Saffron Culture brought a sense of intimacy and personalization. A blend of Western and Sri Lankan dishes told the couple’s shared story through flavor.

THE WHITE KEYS, a band beloved by the family, brought incredible energy to the evening. With powerful vocals, live brass, and drums, they filled the dance floor and carried the celebration through to the night’s end. Guests enjoyed both elegance and excitement, with a relaxed, joyful atmosphere throughout.

Though they had another wedding celebration planned in Hong Kong, the couple snuck away for a weeklong honeymoon in South Africa. At a luxury lodge near the Botswana border, they experienced private safari drives, intimate moments, and a peaceful adventure to begin their life as newlyweds.