Former EastEnders star Lorraine Stanley, who brought the character of Karen Taylor to life on the BBC soap from 2017 to 2024, is set to marry her fiancé Mark Perez in a heartfelt, intimate ceremony this month. Known for her lovable yet perpetually disheveled portrayal of Karen, Lorraine has been keeping busy with family life and her upcoming wedding, which promises to be a much smaller affair than many might expect for a TV star.

Speaking excitedly about her big day, Lorraine shared, “Yes, it’s very exciting! I’m getting married to my partner in a ceremony local to where we live in Hertfordshire. It’s going to be low-key. From my EastEnders gang, Danny Walters is coming. I wanted them all to come, but we’re just having a small, intimate wedding at a church, then a pub with a tepee and barbecue.”

For those wondering about the bridal party, Lorraine’s 9-year-old daughter, Nancy, is going to take on a very special role in the ceremony. Lorraine beams as she reveals, “She’s the one wearing the big white wedding dress – well, the flower girl dress. Mine’s modest, really. But I’m so excited. Mark and I have been together for 12 years, it just felt like time.”

The couple’s daughter Nancy, who’s been a big part of their family journey, is understandably excited about her mom’s upcoming nuptials. Lorraine also shares how their love story has naturally evolved, “We’re just in a really good place. You know, every couple goes through their ups and downs, but it feels right, we’re happy. Nancy wanted us to get married, I wanted his surname – I know some women don’t want that, but I do. I want to be Mrs Perez.”

This celebration marks a new chapter for Lorraine and Mark, who have already shared 12 years of life together. She also touches on why they decided to make their union official after so much time together, revealing that it’s more than just practical reasons like having matching surnames on passports. “It’s not just practicalities, it’s love,” she says.

As for the wedding itself, Lorraine explains that Mark, who works in marketing and has no ties to the entertainment world, is supportive but not involved in the spotlight. She adds with a chuckle, “He’s the best father. He’s in marketing, so nothing to do with my world, though I think he could be an actor – he can be quite dramatic at times!”

Looking ahead, Lorraine also reflects on her milestone birthday, turning 50 next year, but reveals she won’t be celebrating in a big way. “I have the wedding this year, so… no, I won’t have a big showbiz bash. We might go to Disney World Florida. We’ll see.”

With her wedding fast approaching, Lorraine’s excitement is palpable, and fans of EastEnders will be cheering her on as she begins this next chapter in her personal life, leaving behind a legacy as one of Albert Square’s beloved characters.