Pop superstar Melanie Brown, affectionately known worldwide as Scary spice, has married her partner, hairstylist Rory McPhee. The intimate and highly anticipated ceremony took place on Saturday, July 5th, in London. This union marks a significant and joyous chapter for the Spice Girls icon.
The romantic nuptials unfolded within the historic and prestigious surroundings of The Crypt at St. Paul’s Cathedral. This venue holds particular significance, reflecting Mel B’s public service.
A Venue Steeped in Significance
Choosing St. Paul’s Cathedral for a private wedding is a rare privilege. The iconic London landmark is typically reserved for state occasions or individuals with specific honors. Mel B qualified for this exceptional venue because she was previously appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE). She received this honor for her tireless dedication to raising awareness about domestic violence. Prince William recognized her important advocacy work. Mel B herself acknowledged the venue’s exclusivity on The Tonight Show, describing it as a “big deal” and noting that you “have to be kind of special” to marry there. The ceremony reportedly occurred specifically within the OBE Chapel, also known as St. Faith’s Chapel, located in the crypt.
Inside the Emotional Ceremony
Guests described the atmosphere inside St. Paul’s as deeply emotional and moving. Large arrangements of beautiful white flowers adorned the cathedral entrance, setting a serene tone. Passersby gathered outside, eager to catch a glimpse of the arriving guests.
During the service, attendees joined in singing, creating a shared moment of celebration. A particularly poignant highlight was fellow Spice Girl Emma Bunton, known as Baby Spice, performing the group’s song “Let Love Lead the Way.” Guests reported that the performance brought many to tears. The overall mood remained celebratory and heartfelt throughout the vows and service. Model Cara Delevingne was among those who described the event as a “very emotional celebration.”
Bridal Style and Celebrity Guests
For the main ceremony, the 50-year-old bride looked radiant in a custom ivory gown. Designed by Josephine Scott, the dress featured elegant long sleeves and a notable pearl-adorned neckline. Mel B reportedly incorporated her unique sense of style into the design process. Later, for the reception, she changed into a second stunning dress by designer Justin Alexander. Interestingly, Mel B had previously mentioned on the Today Show that her bandmate Victoria Beckham designed one of her dresses earlier in the year, along with her mother’s gown, calling it a “beautiful honor.”
Mel B’s three beloved daughters stood by her side as bridesmaids. Phoenix Chi, 26; Angel Iris, 18; and Madison, 13, played a special role in their mother’s big day. Their presence underscored the close family bond central to Mel B’s life.
The Mel B wedding drew a number of famous faces from the entertainment world. Alongside Emma Bunton, notable guests included model Cara Delevingne, Canadian comedian Katherine Ryan, model Daisy Lowe (daughter of Gavin Rossdale), comedian Tom Allen, and model Lisa Snowdon with her fiancé George Smart.
While Emma Bunton was the only Spice Girl able to attend the ceremony in person, her presence was deeply felt. Victoria Beckham sent her warm congratulations via Instagram Stories, sharing a photo of herself with Mel B and calling Rory a “very lucky man.” Reports noted the absence of Melanie C, Geri Halliwell-Horner, and Victoria Beckham from the service itself. Geri Halliwell-Horner’s absence was particularly commented upon, though no public reason was given.
From Hairstylist to Husband
Rory McPhee, 37, is a celebrity hairstylist based in England, originally from Leeds. He and Mel B had known each other for many years as family friends before their relationship blossomed. Mel B shared on the Today Show in 2024 that they were introduced through her cousin, Christian Cooke. Their connection deepened over shared interests in music and fashion.
The couple began dating in 2018. After three years together, Rory proposed in October 2022 during a romantic getaway to Berkshire. Mel B publicly announced her engagement on the UK TV show “Celebrity Gogglebox.” She recounted the proposal’s romantic setting, complete with rose petals everywhere, a log fire, and the beautiful Cliveden hotel. Rory’s heartfelt words were simple and profound: “I love you, you’re my best friend and I want to spend the rest of my life with you.” Rory later confessed to Hello! magazine that he was incredibly nervous during the proposal.
A Journey of Healing and Trust
Mel B’s relationship with Rory McPhee represents a profound personal journey. Following a challenging 10-year previous relationship that she described as involving “such bad abuse,” Mel B was not actively seeking love. Her priority was her children’s well-being and their healing. She had felt too “broken” for another relationship for years.
Their relationship began unexpectedly. Mel B needed help restoring her natural curls after they were damaged. Rory, already a family friend, began providing hair treatments. Mel B explained to Hoda Kotb and Jenna Bush Hager that as he nurtured her hair back to health, he simultaneously “was nurturing my belief in love again and trust.” Trust had been incredibly difficult for her after feeling betrayed by someone she had previously loved and trusted deeply.
Rory’s steadfast commitment was pivotal. Mel B recalled him declaring, “Melanie, I’m not going anywhere. Because I absolutely love you.” His presence brought immense compassion and understanding into her life. She describes him as a “very confident man” who makes her feel “so safe.” This feeling of safety was eye-opening, making her realize how unsafe she had normalized feeling before. Mel B has spoken of moments where she has to “pinch myself” regarding his kindness and her renewed ability to trust her own instincts. Their private bond grew strong before they made their relationship public. Mel B has credited Rory with being a significant source of support, helping her heal from past trauma.
Post-Ceremony Revelry
Following the emotional ceremony at St. Paul’s, guests were transported to the reception venue in classic London style. A traditional red double-decker bus, decorated with a miniature red carpet at its entrance, ferried attendees across the city. Keeping the celebratory mood high, the bus played Spice Girls songs throughout the journey – a joyful tribute to Mel B’s iconic career.
The reception was held at the luxurious Shangri-La Hotel. This impressive venue is located inside The Shard building, one of London’s tallest landmarks. The evening allowed the happy couple and their guests to continue the celebration.
Mel B’s Third Marriage
This marriage is Mel B’s third. She was previously married to dancer Jimmy Gulzar from 1998 to 2000, with whom she shares daughter Phoenix. Her second marriage was to producer Stephen Belafonte from 2007 to 2018. That marriage ended in a public and difficult divorce. Mel B has previously made allegations of abuse against Belafonte, which he has vehemently denied. Her journey since that difficult period, including her advocacy work and finding love and trust with Rory, highlights her resilience.
Mel B’s co-parenting relationship with Eddie Murphy, father of her daughter Angel, has also reportedly flourished in recent years, adding another layer of positive personal development to her story.
Looking ahead, Mel B is expected to return to the U.S. for live shows of “America’s Got Talent” in August. While rumors of a potential Spice Girls reunion tour in 2026 persist, there has been no official confirmation. For now, the focus is squarely on her happiness with her new husband, Rory McPhee.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Mel B able to get married at St. Paul’s Cathedral?
Mel B, also known as Melanie Brown, had the rare privilege of marrying in St. Paul’s Cathedral because she was previously appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE). She received the MBE for her significant work raising awareness and advocating against domestic violence. This honor allows individuals to hold ceremonies in the historic venue, which is typically reserved for state occasions or those with specific royal or national recognition.
Where was Mel B’s wedding reception held after the ceremony?
Following the ceremony at St. Paul’s Cathedral, Mel B and Rory McPhee held their wedding reception at the Shangri-La Hotel. This luxury hotel is located inside The Shard, one of London’s prominent skyscrapers. Guests were transported from the cathedral to the reception venue via a classic red double-decker bus playing Spice Girls music.
How long had Mel B and Rory McPhee been together before they got married?
Mel B and Rory McPhee were together for a total of six years before tying the knot. They began dating in 2018. After three years of dating, Rory proposed in October 2022 during a romantic trip to Berkshire. They then had an engagement period of about three years before their wedding ceremony on July 5, 2025.
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