Alex & Jessica’s Celebration in Islington

If you’re searching for wedding photography at The Depot, Carpenter Mews, this celebration is a perfect example of how effortlessly stylish, relaxed and atmospheric this Islington venue can be.

Alex & Jessica didn’t want a traditional wedding day — instead, they chose to gather their closest friends and family for an intimate New Year wedding reception at The Depot that felt more like the ultimate party than a formal event. And honestly, it suited them perfectly.

Getting Ready at St Pancras Renaissance Hotel

The day began at the iconic St Pancras Renaissance Hotel in King’s Cross, one of London’s most striking locations for wedding photography. Alex and Jessica got ready separately before meeting for a quiet moment together, followed by a handful of relaxed portraits on the hotel’s famous staircase.

The rich architecture, dramatic arches and warm tones of St Pancras created a beautiful contrast to Jessica’s modern off-the-shoulder gown and Alex’s sharp black tuxedo — timeless, elegant and completely unfussy.

From there, we made our way north to Islington for the main event.

A Wedding Reception at The Depot, Carpenter Mews

Tucked away on Carpenter Mews in Islington, The Depot (also known as Depot No.7) is one of London’s best-kept secrets for couples planning a relaxed, alternative wedding reception.

With its industrial character, mezzanine level, warm lighting and incredible atmosphere, The Depot is ideal for couples who want a celebration that feels personal, informal and full of energy — without sacrificing style.

Alex & Jessica were joined by their immediate family and closest friends for an evening that blended Christmas warmth with New Year excitement. Evergreen installations, fairy lights and candlelight softened the space beautifully, creating an intimate setting that felt welcoming from the moment guests arrived.

Champagne, Guinness & Four Heartfelt Speeches

Drinks flowed freely — champagne for most, Guinness by special request of the groom — as guests settled in for dinner and speeches.

There were four speeches in total, each one deeply personal and emotional. One of the most moving moments came from Jessica’s brother, who delivered a speech on behalf of her father, who was unable to speak himself. It was honest, heartfelt and had the entire room completely absorbed, a reminder that these quieter, unscripted moments are often the most powerful parts of the day.

This is exactly the kind of atmosphere The Depot wedding receptions are known for, intimate, relaxed and full of genuine connection.

Evening Party on the Mezzanine Floor

After the wedding breakfast, guests made their way upstairs to The Depot’s mezzanine level, while the band set up below ready for the evening celebrations.

As night fell, the space came alive. Fairy lights reflected off glass and metal, the band kicked things off, and Alex & Jessica shared their first dance surrounded by the people who matter most to them. There were no rigid timelines or formal traditions just great music, laughter and a dance floor that stayed busy well past midnight.

Celebrating both the New Year and their marriage, the night perfectly captured what this venue does best: hosting celebrations that feel more like unforgettable parties than formal events.

When the Clock Struck Midnight at The Depot

As the evening rolled on and the dance floor filled, there was a palpable sense of anticipation building inside The Depot, Carpenter Mews. When the clock finally struck midnight, the room erupted. Glasses were raised, hugs were shared, and Alex & Jessica found themselves at the centre of it all welcoming the New Year surrounded by the people they love most. It felt incredibly fitting that their wedding celebration crossed into a brand-new year, marking not just the start of the next chapter in their lives, but a moment they’ll forever associate with laughter, music and connection. Celebrating a wedding and New Year’s Eve together gave the night an added layer of meaning, and The Depot provided the perfect backdrop for such a memorable midnight moment.

Suppliers:

Venue: Depot No 7 

Cake/Donuts – Crispy Creme

Band – The Flyaways

Hair – Natalie Toms

Catering – The Depot 

Wedding Dress – Bodice & Bustle