A couple have got married at Manchester’s beloved independent boutique Afflecks Palace in what is the first ever wedding for the venue.
Last year, the world-famous venue on Church Street in the Northern Quarter announced it had been granted a weddings licence to host ceremonies with up to 30 guests. Offering a unique and memorable backdrop for proceedings, the venue has now had its first ceremony.
On Saturday (June 1), Sean Berry tied the knot with his long-term partner Millie as their family and friends celebrated the occasion as the shopping emporium was closed for business.
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Sean, who has run the Panic Posters store within Afflecks for more than 31 years now, said he ‘couldn’t think of a better place’ to get married than his place of work. With Afflecks’ famous owl Aurora and Sean’s dog Willow both serving as ring bearers, the ceremony took place beside the iconic poster wall on the first floor of the building, which is close to Sean’s store.
The wedding later concluded in spectacular fashion with a fairy godmother, who led guests out of the shopping centre and into the street to take part in a dancing procession.
“Discovering that our second home, Afflecks, would start hosting weddings inspired Millie and I to finally tie the knot,” Sean explained. “We've been together as long as I've had the Afflecks store, and it's been a huge part of our lives. We couldn't think of a better place to get married.”
A registrar from Manchester City Council officially presided over the ceremony and legally married Sean and Millie. AJ Martyn, General Manager at Afflecks, said: “We’re absolutely thrilled to have hosted our very first Afflecks wedding, especially celebrating the marriage of one of our very own Afflecks family members.
“Sean, Millie, and the team planned an incredible day that really showcased how unique and eccentric a marriage celebration can be here at Afflecks. We encourage anyone looking for an extra special, alternative wedding day to get in touch.”
Weddings can take place in a number of different locations across the centre, including the Japanese culture-inspired Animaid Café or even at the tattoo parlour. Wedding bookings and enquiries can be made through the Afflecks website and by arrangement with Manchester registry office.
