On April 23rd, The Connaught’s prestigious doors will open to a night of elevated inspiration and cross-continental creativity. The Wedded Experience Takes The UK, curated by Wedded Wonderland, is a landmark event that brings together a global gathering of tastemakers, innovators, and artistic leaders in the luxury wedding and events space.
Table of Contents
As we count down the hours to this most anticipated launch in the UK, meet the host and the star-studded panel of speakers who will leave you wanting more (and Wedded Wonderland is where you can find them!). The evening’s host is Alexandra Tarr, a seasoned therapist and coach with over 15 years of experience, who has co-founded ‘It’s You and I’ – a coaching service that fosters intentional and conscious relationships. Alexandra is celebrated for her ability to guide powerful conversations with warmth, wisdom, and clarity. Her presence ensures each speaker will not only delve deep into craft and creativity, but into the soul of what makes luxury service truly unforgettable.
We explore how Britain’s event scene is being reimagined, where tradition meets boundary-pushing design and global influences elevate every local celebration.
Wendy El-Khoury
Wendy El-Khoury is the Founder and CEO of Wedded Wonderland, a global wedding platform with a community of over 3 million followers across 54 countries. A leading voice in the luxury, cultural, and destination wedding space, Wendy has educated and mentored thousands of couples and businesses, transforming how the world plans, celebrates, and connects. Through strategic content, immersive events, and a powerhouse network, she continues to shape the future of weddings — globally.
Raj Somaiya
Raj Somaiya, CEO and co-founder of Silverfox Events, is a cornerstone of this renaissance. With over 30 years of experience designing weddings and luxury events across Europe and the UAE, Raj is as much a mentor as he is a maestro. From judging BBC’s Ultimate Wedding Planner to mentoring emerging planners, his influence runs deep through the industry.
Amie Bone
Amie Bone, specializes in luxury cultural destination weddings, servicing the UK, Europe, and the Middle East. The inimitable floral artist is known for crafting immersive, high-drama floral installations that read like couture storytelling. From humble beginnings on a market stall to building an internationally recognized brand, Amie’s journey is as bold as her blooms—and her events are unforgettable spectacles of romance and design.
Lillian Khallouf
Adding a fashion-forward edge to the conversation is Lillian Khallouf, the Australian designer behind sleek, contemporary bridal couture, who is now looking to expand globally and create everlasting memories in fabric for her brides all over the world. Grounded in slow fashion and exquisite tailoring, Lillian’s work speaks to the modern bride who wants her look to feel both timeless and entirely her own. Her pieces whisper luxury and scream individuality.
Dr. Joseph Hkeik
Dr. Joseph Hkeik, a globally revered cosmetic physician, is the epitome of precision and care. With over 20 years of experience and a reputation for natural, elegant results, Dr Joseph is celebrated for blending artistry with deep medical knowledge. His patient-first philosophy sets the gold standard in aesthetic medicine. He’s well-versed with the UK market, having worked there for quite some time and has recently opened his flagship clinic in Mayfair.
Philip Khoury
Philip Khoury, former Head Pastry Chef at Harrods and a pioneer in plant-based pâtisserie, proves that innovation can be indulgent. His work—showcased in The Guardian, BBC Good Food, and Saturday Kitchen—has earned him countless accolades, including the 2024 Fortnum & Mason Best Debut Cookery Book. His plant-forward creations are as breathtaking as they are groundbreaking.
Milan Thakrar
Meet Milan Thakrar, the strategic powerhouse behind Work With Milan. With a mind for bold business moves and a heart for connection, Milan partners with brands like Visit England and Engage! Summits to drive growth and spotlight brilliance. Whether he’s unlocking opportunities or elevating experiences, Milan does it with unmatched clarity and charisma.
James Lord
As the evening unfolds beneath the gilded ceilings of The Connaught, The Wedded Experience will showcase not just talent but heart, heritage, and the future of luxury celebration.
Follow along via #WeddedUK as we celebrate the creative voices shaping what’s next in weddings and beyond.
