CELEBRANT IN STYLE! Kate & Kate Celebrants are thrilled to have made it to the finals of the AOIC Celebrant Awards 2025, with results to be announced on 27th September. With more than 20 years’ experience and a shelf of accolades, Kate and Kate are known across Sussex and the South East for ceremonies that are anything but beige! Whether it’s a joyful wedding, a heartfelt funeral, a meaningful vow renewal or a celebratory naming, every script is written from scratch to reflect the people at its heart. As well as creating unforgettable ceremonies, the duo are also proud tutors for Match & Dispatch Celebrant Training, supporting and inspiring new celebrants across the UK. Backed by five-star reviews, their blend of warmth, professionalism and cheek has made them a trusted, much-loved choice. Find out more at kateandkatecelebrants.co.uk THE FINAL COUNTDOWN Sarah Blay, owner of local catering company Bay Tree Foods has recently been announced as a 2025 finalist in the UK Small Business Awards for Female Entrepreneur of the Year. With more than 30 years of industry experience, Sarah created Bay Tree Foods 11 years ago, starting with small family events, before building up to several weddings a year. “I focus on a casual, family friendly approach, offering sharing style dining rather than traditional formal full-service options in the form of barbecues, hot meals, tea parties and grazing,” she explains. These options also favour the budget as every penny helps in this current climate! Bay Tree Foods’ service includes a full tasting and planning meeting along with a venue visit, particularly important if it’s a new venue for Sarah. “I also have a network of fellow suppliers, so on the day, we all work seamlessly together, creating the perfect experience for our couples,” Sarah finishes. Find out more at baytreefoods.co.uk © Peter Mould Deck the halls Historic Sussex Hotels really shine during the Christmas period, so join us as we take a look at what’s planned. Ockendeon Manor has partnered with nearby Wakehurst to create a must-book Christmas experience. Arrive at the hotel for a delicious two course lunch before wandering down enjoy the spa. Then, wrap up warm and head to Wakehurst to follow the festive light trail through the botanical landscape. Join the team at The Spread Eagle, Midhurst, on the last Sunday before advent and to take a turn at stirring the Christmas pudding as you make a wish. Group executive chef Martin Hadden will share the secrets of the perfect pud before guiding you through the steps of his classic recipe. Then, while enjoying a delicious roast, The Spread Eagle elves will carefully wrap and dress the puddings ready to be taken home and cooked on Christmas Day. Mark the start of the festive season with a glorious ‘Carols by Candlelight’ performance in Bailiffscourt’s 13th-century chapel. The acoustics of the chapel filled with candles and sparkle, bring a whole new dimension to the beautiful voices of The Agnes Collective. Choose from three performance dates in December and get in the mood for Christmas with a lunch, afternoon tea, or make an evening of it with a delicious dinner. Learn more about each of these events at hshotels.co.uk 8
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