Melanie Chisholm Marries Chris Dingwall in Cumbria Ceremony
Sporty Spice's daughter Scarlett served as bridesmaid; Victoria Beckham designed the gown.
Image: Eddie Pollard / AI
Carla Rooney
Melanie Chisholm, known globally as Sporty Spice, married Chris Dingwall on Saturday, July 18th, at The Country House in Castle Carrock, Cumbria, marking a significant personal milestone for the pop icon.
Chisholm's 17-year-old daughter, Scarlett, from her previous relationship with Thomas Starr, stood as bridesmaid.
Chisholm wore a striking backless satin wedding dress, a bespoke creation designed by her former bandmate, Victoria Beckham.
Victoria Beckham confirmed the dress was a gift, stating her great pleasure in crafting the gown for Mel.
Victoria Beckham did not attend the wedding; she remained in the US with David Beckham due to prior World Cup commitments.
The couple first met in 2023, connecting through the exclusive dating application Raya.
Guests at the ceremony reported fellow Spice Girls members Emma Bunton, Melanie Brown, and Geri Halliwell-Horner all attended, celebrating with their long-time friend.
The couple held an understated and intimate wedding, choosing a smaller, very classy affair over a large, flashy public event.
This private celebration stands in contrast to past statements from Chisholm, who had previously sworn off marriage, stating a big celebration was not for her.
Guests described the ceremony as 'perfect,' highlighting the serene atmosphere and the beautiful setting of the venue.
The location, secluded yet picturesque, ensured everyone enjoyed their time.
Chisholm has openly discussed her past struggles with depression and loneliness, detailing these experiences in her 2022 memoir.
She admitted believing her romantic life had concluded following splits from long-term partners, including Thomas Starr.
It's something I didn't think would be part of my story, but I'm so happy with Chris. Maybe it is something that will be in my life.
She explained her depression 'was very environmental,' stemming partly from profound feelings of loneliness.
The pop star also recounted hitting rock bottom when the Spice Girls disbanded in 2000, a period during which her issues with binge drinking and binge eating intensified.
She described her depression as originating from 'the experiences that I'd had, and just getting to that point where I couldn't continue living the way I was living.'
Reflecting on her recovery, Chisholm stated, 'That was a really long road back to health, and I never really stopped.'
She added, 'It was a different time as well because I probably would have benefited to go off and have some time to heal, but I was touring and promoting my solo stuff.'
Her memoir also touched upon a past heartbreak involving Robbie Williams, claiming he 'behaved badly' by leading her on before abruptly ending their connection, though she maintains a friendship with her 'lovely' ex.