La Rueda Clapham

One of the most memorable weddings we’ve had at La Rueda was a beautiful celebration that blended tradition and elegance in the most magical way. The couple, who shared a love for Spanish culture, chose to hold both their reception and dinner at our venue, creating a seamless flow between the intimate rustic restaurant downstairs and the lively rooftop terrace.

The evening began with cocktails and canapés on the rooftop, where guests enjoyed the stunning panoramic views of Clapham as the sun set. The Mediterranean-inspired terrace was adorned with fairy lights and lush greenery, creating a romantic, festive atmosphere. Laughter, music, and the clinking of glasses filled the air, while the private rooftop bar served perfectly crafted cocktails.

When it was time for dinner, guests moved downstairs to the charming restaurant, where the rustic Spanish décor set the tone for an unforgettable feast. The couple had chosen a traditional Spanish menu with a variety of tapas, followed by a mouthwatering paella, all served in true Spanish style. The warm, welcoming ambiance of the restaurant provided the perfect backdrop for heartfelt speeches, shared memories, and plenty of dancing.

What made this wedding truly special was the seamless transition between the two spaces, each offering its own unique vibe, and the couple’s personal touch that made every guest feel like part of the celebration. It was an evening filled with love, laughter, and the kind of magic that only happens when the perfect venue and the perfect couple come together.

Our number one wedding planning tip for couples is to stay true to what feels right for you both. It’s easy to get caught up in trends, expectations, or the opinions of others, but your wedding day should reflect your unique love story and personalities. Focus on the details that matter most to you, whether it's the food, the venue, or the music,and create an experience that feels authentic and special to you as a couple. When you do this, your celebration will be truly unforgettable, and the memories will be all the more meaningful.

Stay grounded in your vision, trust your instincts, and don't be afraid to make your wedding day as unique and personal as you are!

One of my favourite personal touches I've seen at a wedding was a couple who incorporated a handwritten letter exchange during their ceremony. They each wrote a letter to the other, which they read privately before the ceremony started. Then, during the ceremony, they each shared a small part of their letters with their guests. It was such a meaningful, intimate moment that really showcased their love and thoughtfulness.

Another memorable touch was a “family recipe” dish served during the reception. The couple honoured their heritage by sharing a dish passed down through generations, and it sparked wonderful conversations and connections between their families. These personal elements made the celebration feel deeply personal and unique, and it was clear how much thought and love had gone into every detail.

Charming, intimate, vibrant, authentic, and welcoming

The best photo spot at our venue is undoubtedly the rooftop terrace. With its stunning panoramic views of Clapham and the city skyline, it offers a breathtaking backdrop, especially at golden hour when the sun sets. The combination of lush greenery, fairy lights, and the Mediterranean-inspired decor creates a romantic and lively atmosphere that makes for unforgettable wedding photos. Whether it's a shot with your loved ones or a quiet moment just the two of you, the rooftop captures the essence of your special day perfectly.

While we’ve had the pleasure of hosting many wonderful guests and celebrations at La Rueda, we like to keep things personal and focused on making every event unique and special,whether it's for a celebrity or a local couple. That said, we’ve been fortunate enough to welcome a few well-known faces over the years who’ve enjoyed our authentic Spanish cuisine and warm, welcoming atmosphere. We’re always honoured when our venue becomes a part of someone’s big day or celebration, no matter who they are!

As a manager, I’d have to say my favourite canapé is the jamón ibérico with manchego cheese on crispy crostini. It’s a simple yet delicious combination that perfectly captures the essence of Spanish flavours. The richness of the jamón ibérico pairs beautifully with the sharpness of the manchego, and the crostini adds just the right amount of crunch. It’s always a hit with guests and a perfect bite-sized introduction to the flavours of Spain!

For a midnight treat, nothing beats churros with rich, warm chocolate sauce. There's something magical about the combination of freshly fried, crispy churros dusted with cinnamon sugar and dipped into a velvety chocolate sauce. It’s the perfect comfort food to satisfy those late-night cravings after hours of dancing and celebrating. Plus, it’s a fun, indulgent treat that adds a touch of sweetness to the end of an unforgettable evening!

Our venue’s most unique feature is the seamless blend of rustic Spanish charm downstairs and the Mediterranean-inspired rooftop terrace above. The downstairs restaurant offers an intimate, warm atmosphere with its rustic décor and traditional Spanish cuisine, while the rooftop provides a completely different experience,a stunning open-air space with panoramic views of Clapham, perfect for cocktails, canapés, and dancing under the stars. This versatility allows us to offer two distinct yet equally unforgettable experiences, all in one place. It’s a venue that truly adapts to the couple’s vision and creates a memorable day from start to finish.

I'm most proud of the genuine connections we build with our guests. It’s not just about serving great food and drinks; it’s about creating an experience where couples, families, and friends feel truly at home. Whether it’s the personal touch we add to every wedding, the authentic Spanish dishes that bring people together, or the warm, welcoming atmosphere that makes our venue feel like a second home, seeing our guests leave with smiles and lasting memories is what we value the most. That sense of community and shared joy is what makes our business so special.