A Fairytale Ceremony in Hertfordshire
Former EastEnders favourite Lorraine Stanley tied the knot with her long-term partner Mark Perez in a picture-perfect country wedding this week. The 49-year-old actress, best known for playing Karen Taylor in the BBC soap from 2017 to 2024, looked radiant as she said “I do” in Harpenden, Hertfordshire.
Lorraine and Mark, who have been together for 12 years, exchanged vows in a beautiful Gothic church surrounded by friends, family, and a few familiar soap faces. Their ten-year-old daughter Nancy played a sweet role as flower girl, wearing a pale pink princess-style dress adorned with flowers in her hair.
Lorraine Stuns in Ruffled White Gown
All eyes were on Lorraine as she made her entrance in a striking white ruffled gown. The dress featured a chic boat neckline and subtle polka dot detailing, which she paired with a traditional veil and pearl jewellery. Her elegant look was a far cry from her on-screen character’s casual wardrobe, and she looked every inch the glowing bride.
Guests applauded as she showcased her new wedding band while sipping champagne in the sunshine after the ceremony. At her side, Mark couldn’t stop smiling in a green three-piece suit, complete with a crisp white shirt and gold tie. The couple radiated happiness as photographers captured every tender moment.
Soap Stars and Family Gather
Among the guests was Lorraine’s former on-screen son, Danny Walters, who played Keanu Taylor before his explosive Christmas Day exit from EastEnders. Danny looked dapper in a pale blue suit, attending with his partner Maddi just months after the birth of their daughter, Autumn.
The celebration was filled with heartfelt moments, including Mark sharing a sweet embrace with daughter Nancy and Lorraine giggling with her new husband during the vows. After the ceremony, the newlyweds waved to loved ones before leaving in a vintage car, cheered on by guests popping bottles of champagne.
A Remarkable Weight-Loss Journey
Lorraine’s wedding day also marked a personal milestone. The actress has been open about her dramatic 6.5st weight loss over the past two years. After struggling with her health, she underwent gastric sleeve surgery and has been candid about the life-changing results.
“It’s hands-down the best thing I’ve ever done – both for me and for my family,” she told New! magazine earlier this month. Before the operation, Lorraine tried weight-loss jabs such as Wegovy but admitted they stopped working as her body grew “immune.”
Since the surgery, she has embraced a healthier lifestyle. The star regularly shares updates on Instagram, crediting her fitness guru friend Louise and her nutritionist pal for guiding her through a balanced diet and exercise routine. She revealed: “I’ve eaten a lot of boiled eggs, fish, chicken, no carbs, no crisps and no chocolate.”
Lorraine has also celebrated five months of sobriety, telling followers she feels “better than ever.”
A New Chapter of Happiness
The transformation has been noticed by colleagues and fans alike. Former co-star Diane Parish, who plays Denise Fox, praised her on Instagram, while Martin Fowler actor James Bye commented: “Look at you skinny minny, miss you mate xx.”
On her big day, the happiness was plain to see. From mingling with guests under a vintage parasol to dancing with her new husband, Lorraine embraced every moment.
This wedding wasn’t just a celebration of love, but of resilience and new beginnings. Having left EastEnders last year, Lorraine now steps into married life with renewed confidence and joy. With her family by her side and her health transformed, the actress is clearly entering the next chapter of her life happier than ever.
