spice Girls icon Melanie Brown, famously known as Mel B or Scary Spice, has officially tied the knot! The singer and TV personality married her long-time love, hairstylist Rory McPhee, in a stunning and deeply personal ceremony. their nuptials took place on July 5 in the historic surroundings of St. Paul’s Cathedral in London, England. The event marked the culmination of a six-year relationship and a three-year engagement, beginning a beautiful new chapter for the happy couple. The choice of venue and the heartfelt details of the day made for a truly unforgettable celebration of their love.
A Venue Fit for Royalty (Almost!)
The decision to marry at St. Paul’s Cathedral is a significant one. This iconic London landmark is not typically available for private weddings. Mel B shared the special reason she was granted permission. As a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE), awarded for her tireless work raising awareness about domestic violence, she qualified for this unique privilege.
Prince William himself recognized her efforts. Mel B commented on the rarity of the venue. She noted that few people are allowed to marry there. It is a perk reserved for those considered “kind of special.” The ceremony unfolded within the OBE Chapel, situated in the cathedral’s historic crypt. Large, elegant arrangements of white flowers adorned the entrance, creating a grand and traditional atmosphere. Passersby gathered outside, eager to catch a glimpse of the arriving guests.
A Love Story Built on Trust and Healing
Mel B’s relationship with Rory McPhee goes back several years before they officially became a couple in 2018. Rory, a skilled hairstylist from Leeds, played a unique role in Mel B’s life during a challenging time. Following a difficult previous relationship, Mel B cut her hair as a symbolic act of moving forward. Rory began working closely with her, helping to nurture her curls back to health.
Mel B has spoken openly about how this process paralleled her own emotional healing. She shared that as he nurtured her hair, Rory simultaneously nurtured her “belief in love again and trust.” She had felt “too broken” to find someone new after experiencing a decade of what she described as “such bad abuse.” Rory, however, remained steadfast. He told her, “Melanie, I’m not going anywhere. Because I absolutely love you.” Mel B credits Rory with bringing “so much compassion and understanding” into her life. He makes her feel safe, a feeling she didn’t realize she lacked until experiencing it with him. She views him as “very special” and a “very confident man” who helped her rebuild trust after past trauma.
The Romantic Proposal
Rory proposed to Mel B in October 2022. The romantic moment took place on the picturesque grounds of Cliveden House in Berkshire. Mel B recounted the special evening. They had gone for a walk with their dogs on the estate before dinner. Upon returning to their room, Rory got down on one knee.
“He said, ‘I love you, you’re my best friend and I want to spend the rest of my life with you,'” Mel B recalled. Rose petals were scattered everywhere, and a log fire crackled nearby. She described it as a “very romantic” setting. The proposal solidified their commitment after several years together and set the stage for their highly anticipated wedding day.
Bridal Style and Distinguished Attire
For her walk down the aisle, Mel B chose a stunning ivory custom gown. The dress was a collaboration between London-based Evelie Bridal and designer Josephine Scott. It featured a figure-hugging georgette crepe silhouette. A sweetheart neckline and a corset bodice flowed into a dramatic train. Adding a touch of elegance, she wore a detachable jacket over the gown. This jacket was hand-embellished with pearls and created a high neckline. A beautiful cathedral-length veil completed the radiant bridal look. Designer Josephine Scott aimed to capture Mel B’s “fearless spirit and softness” with the dress. She sought a gown “worthy of that” iconic personality, honoring her strength and sensuality. Mel B kept her hair in its natural, beautiful curls and opted for natural makeup.
Later in the celebrations, Mel B changed into a second dress. This gown was designed by Justin Alexander. She also revealed earlier this year that her former bandmate Victoria Beckham had designed another dress for the occasion. Victoria also designed a dress for Mel B’s mother. Rory McPhee complemented his bride’s style with traditional Scottish attire. He wore a traditional kilt, with his long hair neatly swept back.
A Gathering of Stars and Loved Ones
The wedding ceremony was attended by close friends and family, including several notable celebrity guests. Fellow Spice Girl Emma Bunton, known as Baby Spice, was proudly present. She wore a lovely pink dress and a matching hat. Other famous faces included model Cara Delevingne, model Daisy Lowe, comedian Katherine Ryan, comedian Tom Allen, and television personality Lisa Snowdon, who attended with her fiancé George Smart. Television presenter Angelica Bell was also among the guests.
Crucially, Mel B’s three daughters served as the sweetest bridesmaids. Phoenix Chi, 26 (from her marriage to Jimmy Gulzar), Angel Iris, 18 (from her relationship with Eddie Murphy), and Madison, 13 (from her marriage to Stephen Belafonte), stood by their mother’s side on her special day.
The Spice Girls Support
While Emma Bunton was the only Spice Girl member able to attend the ceremony in person, the others sent their love and support. Victoria Beckham, Geri Halliwell-Horner (Ginger Spice), and Mel C (Sporty Spice) were unable to be there due to prior commitments. Insider sources clarified their absence was not a snub, stating the group remains on friendly terms. Geri Halliwell-Horner was reportedly busy with Christian Horner at Formula One events. Victoria Beckham had commitments with her fashion brand. Mel C had a performance scheduled in Denmark.
Victoria Beckham sent her heartfelt congratulations via an Instagram message. She posted a photo of herself and Mel B together. She expressed excitement for the couple. Victoria also called Rory a “very lucky man,” wishing them a lifetime of happiness. The show of support from her bandmates, even in their absence, highlighted the enduring bond between the Spice Girls. There were reports noting Geri Halliwell-Horner’s absence particularly, possibly linked to ongoing tensions between her and Mel B. However, neither has publicly confirmed the reason.
Emotion and Celebration
The atmosphere inside the OBE Chapel was deeply moving. According to attendees, emotions ran high throughout the service. Guests joined in singing during the ceremony. A particularly emotional moment came when Emma Bunton performed. She sang the Spice Girls song “Let Love Lead the Way.” Guests reported that this performance brought many to tears. Cara Delevingne described the ceremony as a “very emotional celebration” upon leaving.
Following the service, the newlyweds and their guests continued the celebration. They were transported via a classic red London double-decker bus. This festive transport featured a miniature red carpet. As they traveled through the city, Spice Girls songs played, adding a joyful nod to Mel B’s iconic pop career and keeping spirits high.
Looking Ahead
Mel B and Rory McPhee’s St. Paul’s wedding was a grand and traditional affair. It provided a beautiful start to their married life. The couple is reportedly planning a second ceremony later in the month. This celebration is expected to be held in Morocco. Mel B described this upcoming event to the Mirror as being “more informal, sexy and beautiful.” This second ceremony will likely be another opportunity for friends and family to celebrate their union in a different setting. Mel B and Rory McPhee are looking forward to building a future together. Their relationship, built on support, trust, and healing, marks a significant and happy new chapter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Mel B able to marry at St. Paul’s Cathedral?
Mel B was granted permission to marry at the historic St. Paul’s Cathedral because she is a recipient of the MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire). She received this honor for her advocacy work raising awareness of domestic violence issues. This prestigious venue is typically only available for those considered “kind of special,” such as members of the Order, making her wedding there a unique privilege acknowledging her significant contributions.
Which Spice Girls members attended Mel B’s wedding ceremony?
Only one of Mel B’s fellow Spice Girls members, Emma Bunton (Baby Spice), was able to attend the wedding ceremony at St. Paul’s Cathedral in person. Victoria Beckham, Geri Halliwell-Horner, and Mel C were unable to attend due to prior commitments, including work and a performance schedule. However, Victoria Beckham sent her congratulations and support via an Instagram message.
How long have Mel B and Rory McPhee been together, and how did he help her heal?
Mel B and hairstylist Rory McPhee had been dating for six years before their wedding, following an engagement of three years. Mel B has shared that Rory played a crucial role in helping her heal from past trauma, particularly after a difficult previous relationship. She explained that as he nurtured her hair, he also nurtured her “belief in love again and trust,” helping her feel safe and loved when she felt “too broken.”
A New Chapter Begins
Mel B and Rory McPhee have embarked on their journey as husband and wife. Their wedding at St. Paul’s Cathedral was a testament to their enduring love and the healing power of a supportive relationship. Surrounded by cherished family and friends, including Mel B’s three daughters who served as bridesmaids and fellow Spice Girl Emma Bunton, the day was filled with emotion and celebration. From the significance of the venue to the touching moments during the service and the unique transport afterwards, the couple created a truly memorable event. With plans for a second, more relaxed ceremony on the horizon, Mel B and Rory McPhee are clearly excited to embrace their future together, built on a foundation of trust, safety, and deep affection.
