HIGH SHINE Liquid satin bridal gowns JUN/JUL 2026 £3.55 Why let the magic end after just one day? WIN! A honeymoon in Thailand worth £4,000 SUSSEXWEDDING WEEKENDERS Wedding Tailor your wedding breakfast to suit your personality A feast to remember
Follow us on /CountyWeddingEvents @CountyWedEvent @countyweddingevents Sunday 11th October 2026 11am to 3pm Brooklands Drive, Weybridge, Surrey KT13 0SL IN ASSOCIATION WITH HOSTED AT Mercedes-Benz World www.countyweddingevents.com One of the largest wedding shows to be held in the South of England. A huge number of wedding specialists on hand to inspire and advise on how to bring your wedding dreams to life. Plus! • Special offers on the day • The chance to win a luxury honeymoon • Entertainment • Refreshments and more... A SurreySignature wedding show at
Al fresco vibes Summer festival, English country garden, tea party... al fresco wedding styling possibilities are fun, frivolous and practically endless. £14.95, rexlondon.com wayfair.co.uk £28, rockettstgeorge.co.uk £12.95, rexlondon.com £49.95, sparkle.lighting The warmer weather is finally starting to arrive, which always makes our thoughts turn to outdoor weddings. We absolutely love the al fresco vibe, but the planning isn’t without its complications. There’s a lot to think about from ‘the where,’ to ‘the how.’ Then there’s the to-do list: do you need toilets? Lighting? Seating? Generators? Permits? And the age-old question, of course: What if it rains? Is it really worth it? The short answer, we believe, is yes! If you’re the sort of person who adores a spreadsheet, this will be a breeze; and if you’re not, well, that’s what wedding planners are for. Don’t compromise on your dreams because things might get a little bit tricky. That said, if the thought still leaves your knees knocking, there’s another answer. Simply look for a venue with oodles of outdoor space. Check if it offers outdoor ceremonies, al fresco drink receptions, and access to the grounds all day, and you’re laughing. All of the open-air joy and none of the hassle – your venue team have totally got this. I hope you love this issue; our first foray into summer for 2026. Enjoy and as ever... keeeep planning! Mr Blue Sky Kelly Andrews, editor Kelly x On the cover This issue’s cover is sponsored by Buxted Park Hotel (www.handpickedhotels.co.uk/ buxtedpark). Buxted Park Hotel is an 18thcentury Palladian mansion offering an unforgettable setting for your special day, with picturesque surroundings and a blend of classic and contemporary luxury. The image was captured by Kelsie Scully Photography (kelsiescullyphotography.com) £17.95, paperstarlights.com £7.95, rexlondon.com Your Sussex Wedding is solely owned, published and designed by Ellis Media and Events Ltd. Whilst every effort was made to ensure the information in this magazine was correct at the time of going to press, the publishers cannot accept legal responsibility for any errors or omissions, nor can they accept responsibility for advert content, or of the standing of advertisers or by the editorial contributions. The views expressed do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher. Your Sussex Wedding is published six times a year. ISSN 1750-3477 @CountyWeddingMagazines @countyweddingmagazines @countyweddingmagazines Visit us online at www.county.wedding and www.countyweddingevents.com DESIGN 01376 535 616 artwork@county.wedding ACCOUNTS 01376 535 616 accounts@county.wedding MANAGING DIRECTOR Sarah Ellis | 01376 535 602 sarah.ellis@county.wedding EDITORIAL Deputy Managing Editor Kelly Andrews | 01376 535 611 kelly.andrews@county.wedding ADVERTISING Account Manager Madison Fox | 01376 538 562 madison.fox@county.wedding EDITOR’S LETTER 3
Regulars 3 EDITOR’S LETTER A warm welcome from Kelly 7 NEARLYWED NEWS Catch up on news from around the region 95 COMPETITION Win a five-night stay at Banyan Tree Phuket in a Banyan Pool Villa, including breakfast, worth nearly £4,000 In this issue... JUNE/JULY 2026 Venues 10 SPOTLIGHT ON... EAST SUSSEX Tie the knot in a local hotspot WIN A FIVE-NIGHT STAY AT BANYAN TREE PHUKET IN A BANYAN POOL VILLA, INCLUDING BREAKFAST, WORTH NEARLY £4,000! Features 35 CREATE AND CAPTURE This is a styled shoot with a difference, as we go behind the scenes at a Rosebud Portfolio Create and Capture Day 40 SUSTAINABLE CELEBRATIONS Control your carbon footprint with our eco-friendly wedding advice 44 A FEAST TO REMEMBER Tailor your wedding breakfast to suit your personality 48 TOAST IN STYLE Raise a glass to love with these weddingready cocktails and mocktails 50 FOREVER BEGINS HERE Turn your wedding into days of love, laughter, and memories to treasure 53 FOLLOW YOUR NOSE Founder of Lords Fragrance House, Sasha Lord, introduces us to the world of wedding scentscaping 54 WEDDINGS REIMAGINED Couples now have more freedom than ever to personalise their big day, with flexible venues, inclusive ceremonies, and creative themes Win! 95 22 7 82 Image courtesy of ITV icphotographics.co.uk 4
Real weddings 22 SILVER SCREEN ROMANCE Sussex’s own Burton and Taylor tied the knot in Worthing at St George’s Church, followed by celebrations at The Dome Cinema 28 FUSS-FREE AND TIMELESS Soraya and Matthew’s timeless and intimate nuptials included their baby’s gender reveal for a double celebration Honeymoons 86 HONEYMOON NEWS Our travel editor reveals the newest openings and honeymoon essentials 90 SMILES AND SUNSETS Surrounded by friendly faces and incredible hotels, join us on an adventurous three-centre journey through Southeast Asia 96 WHERE ROMANCE MEETS THE CITY Experience L’oscar London, where historic grandeur and thoughtful details create an unforgettable mini-moon location 98 GRAND EXPECTATIONS Discover the epitome of romance, luxury and history in Edinburgh 101 NEWLYWED ESSENTIALS The little luxuries and honeymoon musthaves every couple should pack before take-off garywestphotography.com 35 Grooms 71 GROOMS’ NEWS The latest best buys and product launches 72 SUN-KISSED STYLE Terracotta tones bring warmth, depth, and effortless sophistication to the modern groom’s look 74 THE FINISHING TOUCH How to choose cufflinks that complete your wedding day look 76 SUMMER TAILORING From morning suits to black tie, Favourbrook shares expert advice on navigating summer wedding style 59 28 Fashion & Beauty 56 FASHION FOCUS The latest bridal news, buys and launches 59 HIGH SHINE Choose a liquid satin bridal gown that marries a luxurious look with a versatile, flattering feel 65 EXPOSED CORSETRY This structured silhouette creates a flattering feel for all, and the look never dates 68 WHAT TO PACK These new season pieces are honeymoon suitcase staples 78 BEAUTY BUZZ The latest launches and must-haves 81 BRIDAL HAIR RED FLAGS Wedding hair stylist Danielle Louise tells us the wedding morning pitfalls to avoid ensuring a smooth start 82 MORE THAN BATH BOMBS We experienced a wedding scent consultation with Lush discovering there’s much more to this British brand than you might expect 84 STAY STRONG Get the best from your pre-wedding fitness regime scarlett-cook.co.uk 90 CONTENTS 5
Your wedding deserves to be personal 07525 084 850 • www.bloomingreatflorist.co.uk Where flowers make you smile Kaleido Weddings and Tom Cullen Photography. Our wedding firework displays are designed to be the perfect addition to your special day. They will amaze your guests and provide the ultimate finale to your celebrations. At Sussex Wedding Fireworks we can draw on years of professional expertise to ensure that your personalised firework display goes exactly to plan. From consultation and planning to set up and delivery, you can rest assured you’re in safe hands and our reputation for innovation and quality is well founded. 07368 894754 • blockbustersfireworksdisplays@gmail.com www.sussexfireworksforweddings.co.uk
Eco bespoke bling Brighton-based Rebekah Ann Jewellery has been chosen as a finalist for the Sole to Sole: Best Self-Employed Business Owner at this year’s Small Awards. Now in its 10th year, The Small Awards is a nationwide search for the UK’s greatest small firms. It’s organised by Small Business Britain, which champions and supports the nation’s 5.5 million small companies. Rebekah Ann Jewellery was founded by Rebekah Ann, who creates bespoke eco-focused jewellery shaped entirely around the story of the person who’ll wear it. She is also the founder of the Brighton Jewellery Collective, a community-led creative space, run without profit for other makers finding their way, built entirely from recycled materials, upcycled furniture and street finds. “To be recognised nationally for doing things this way feels extraordinary,” Rebekah says. Find out more at rebekahannjewellery.co.uk TV times When ITV’s number one crime drama Grace needed a wedding venue they found it at The Great Thatched Barn at Falmer Court, the Sussex property owned by award-winning hairdresser and Electric Hair (electric-hair.com) founder Mark Woolley. The renovated barn – available for weddings and events – features as the big-day venue for John Simm’s detective superintendent Roy Grace and his partner, Cleo, in the latest series’ dramatic conclusion. “Having the Grace production team come to Falmer Court was one of the most exciting things we’ve done here. To watch a world-class crew transform the barn into a wedding setting for one of Britain’s favourite shows was fascinating,” Mark says. “The Barn has a timeless quality that translates beautifully on screen.” You can learn more about hosting your own big day here at falmercourt.com NEWS Nearlywed Catch up on the latest from around the county IT’S ALL WHITE Leading British lifestyle brand The White Company recently opened a new store in the heart of Horsham. Located at 45 West Street, in the town’s busy shopping area, the branch will showcase an edit of this season’s beautifully designed and carefully considered collections across homeware, fashion, fragrance and baby gifting. Image courtesy of ITV LOCAL NEWS 7
HERE COMES THE HOUND Alfriston Gardens recently played host to a dog wedding celebration in support of Dogs Trust. The heartwarming event, held to celebrate National Pet Day, saw golden retrievers Maeve and Oakley tie the knot surrounded by their six puppies, creating a joyful and widely shared moment that highlighted just how important pets have become as part of modern weddings. At Alfriston Gardens, a countryside wedding venue in East Sussex loved for its relaxed, exclusive-use setting, including pets is a natural extension of modern, personalised nuptials. Surrounded by open gardens and scenic views, the venue offers you the exibility to create a day that genuinely re ects your lives together. So, the venue is encouraging couples to think beyond the trend and consider how to include beloved fur babies in a way that’s both special and practical. Head over to www.your-sussex. wedding/news to nd their top ve tips. Find out more about the venue at alfristongardens.co.uk Tasting a Sussex spring I had the opportunity to attend a very special evening at Anderida Restaurant at Ashdown Park Hotel and Country Club recently. Executive chef Andrew Wilson has recently launched his spring menu and set within the restaurant’s grand surroundings of high windows and sumptuous décor, he opened proceedings with a culinary masterclass on preparing one of my favourite dishes, the classic beef tartare. I’m not ashamed to admit I snuck a second sample! The dishes arrived as a succession of tasting bowls, offering a delightful snippet of each option in every course, which more than delivered on avour, carefully composed and giving an excellent impression of the dishes in full size. The opening dishes immediately set the tone with their memorable combinations. The whipped goat’s cheese with rhubarb, and walnut malt loaf was a standout opener: creamy, tangy and slightly earthy, with the rhubarb cutting through the richness beautifully. Equally impressive was the blood orange cured salmon, where the citrus cure brought brightness to the silky sh, while horseradish yoghurt and fennel added freshness and subtle heat. The guinea fowl Caesar reinterpretation was one of the most inventive plates of the evening. Pickled ranch, parmesan, gem lettuce and anchovy gave familiar Caesar avours a sharper, more modern edge, while the bacon jam and brioche added richness without overwhelming the delicate guinea fowl. Among the mains, the saddle of Sussex lamb was deeply comforting and expertly cooked, paired perfectly with smoked cheddar dauphinoise and sweet spring peas. The roasted South Coast halibut felt re ned and luxurious with razor clams, bacon, caviar and crisp hash browns creating a clever balance between elegance and indulgence. Even the vegetarian option, sesame roasted sweet potato with maple, tempura jackfruit and miso purée, held its own among the meat and sh dishes, delivering layers of sweetness, umami and texture. Desserts were equally thoughtful. The pavlova with pink peppercorn, compressed strawberries, hibiscus and basil sorbet was light, aromatic and refreshing, while the roasted rhubarb with crème diplomat and ginger crumb offered a beautiful balance of sharpness and creaminess. The chocolate crémeux with passion fruit curd was perhaps the richest nale, featuring some of my favourite avours, offset perfectly by the tart sorbet and delicate cocoa soil. Overall, the meal options felt inventive, with each tasting bowl delivering distinct avours and careful attention to texture. If you head to Ashdown Park, you’re promised a perfectly paced menu that beautifully balances comfort, creativity and local, seasonal ingredients. It’s not hard to see why the reputation of this twoAA-Rosette-winning restaurant extends well beyond the local Forest Row area. Find out more at ashdownpark.com/anderidarestaurant josweeneyphotography.co.uk Scan to view video 8
This 18th-century Palladian mansion set within 312 acres of lush parkland offers the perfect blend of classic and contemporary luxury. Say your vows in our stunning Victorian orangery or amidst breathtaking parkland views. With elegant dining beneath chandeliers and our passionate chef creating showstopping bespoke menus, every aspect exceeds expectations. 2026 and 2027 dates are available. Experience everything Buxted Park has to offer at our upcoming Summer Showcase | Sunday 19th July 12:30pm to 4pm. YOUR UNFORGETTABLE SUSSEX WEDDING Station Road, Buxted, East Sussex TN22 4AY 01825 733 333 | buxtedpark@handpicked.co.uk handpickedhotels.co.uk/buxtedpark BUXTED PARK HOTEL ASHDOWN FOREST, EAST SUSSEX Charlene Webb Photography
Tie the knot in a local hotspot ALFRISTON GARDENS Berwick, BN26 5QS 01323 885 999 | alfristongardens.co.uk ALFRISTON WAR MEMORIAL HALL Alfriston, BN26 5TL 01323 870 839 alfriston-village.co.uk/awmh ALL SAINTS THE OLD CHAPEL Eastbourne, BN20 7PE 01323 728889 allsaintschapeleastbourne.org ANNE OF CLEVES HOUSE Lewes, BN7 1JA 01273 486 290 | sussexpast.co.uk ASHDOWN PARK HOTEL Forest Row, RH18 5JR 01342 824 988 | ashdownpark.com BANNATYNE SPA HOTEL St Leonards On Sea, TN38 8EA 01424 851 222 | bannatyne.co.uk BATTLE ABBEY SCHOOL Battle, TN33 0AD 07775 906 764 | battleabbeyschool.com BIG SKY TIPI HOLIDAYS Wartling, BN27 1RX 01323 832 325 | bigskytipiholidays.co.uk BLACKSTOCK ESTATE Hellingly, BN27 4HF 01323 844 006 | blackstockestate.co.uk BLUEBELL COPPICE PARK Crowhurst, TN33 9AB 01424 830 322 | bluebellcoppice.com BLUEBELL RAILWAY Uckfield, TN22 3QL 01825 720 800 | bluebell-railway.com BOWER IN THE WOOD Flimwell, TN5 7PR 07850 359 997 | thebowerinthewood.com BRIAR HOUSE BARNS LTD Crowborough, TN6 3RU 01892 853 115 | briarhousebarns.co.uk BRICKWALL HOUSE Rye, TN31 6NL 01892 517 073 | brickwallhouse.co.uk BRIGHTLING PARK Robertsbridge, TN32 5HH 07787 843 277 | brightlingpark.com BUXTED PARK HOTEL Buxted, TN22 4AY 01825 733 333 | handpickedhotels.co.uk CAVENDISH HOTEL Eastbourne, BN21 4DH 01323 410 222 | britanniahotels.com CHALK FARM HOTEL Willingdon, BN20 9JD 01323 503 800 | chalkfarmhotel.org CLAVERTON HOTEL Battle, TN33 0SE 01424 751 128 | clavertonhotel.co.uk CROCKSTEAD FIELDS Halland, BN8 6PT 07775 870 123 | crocksteadfields.co.uk DALE HILL HOTEL AND GOLF LTD Wadhurst, TN5 7DQ 01580 200 112 | dalehill.co.uk DE LA WARR PAVILION Bexhill-on-sea, TN40 1DP 01424 229 117 | dlwp.com EAST SUSSEX NATIONAL HOTEL Uckfield, TN22 5ES 01825 880 088 | eastsussexnational.co.uk EASTBOURNE TOWN HALL Eastbourne, BN21 4UG 0345 608 0198 | lewes-eastbourne.gov.uk EASTWOOD OBSERVATORY Herstmonceux, BN27 4QH 07517 203 091 eastwoodobservatory.co.uk FALMER COURT Falmer, BN1 9PB 01273 942 566 | falmercourt.com FIRLE PLACE Firle, BN8 6LP 07392 490 332 | firle.com EAST SUSSEX Spotlight on... THE ALFRISTON Adam Lynk 10
FLACKLEY ASH HOTEL Nr. Rye, TN31 6YH 01797 230 651 | flackleyashhotel.co.uk FLIMWELL PARK Flimwell, TN5 7FJ 01580 493 394 | flimwellpark.com FLINT BARNS Alfriston, BN26 5TU 01323 870 022 | rathfinnyestate.com FLORENCE HOUSE Seaford, BN25 4JS 01323 873 700 | florencehouse.co.uk FRICKLEY LAKE Nr Battle, TN33 9LZ 07976 704 632 | frickleylake.com GILDREDGE MANOR Eastbourne, BN20 8BB 01323 438 944 | gildredgemanor.co.uk THE GRAND HOTEL Eastbourne, BN21 4EQ 01323 412 345 | grandeastbourne.com GREAT OTE HALL Nr Burgess Hill, RH15 0SR 01444 232 179 | greatotehall.co.uk HASTINGS MUSEUM AND ART GALLERY Hastings, TN34 1ET 01424 451 052 | hastings.gov.uk HASTINGS TOWN HALL Hastings, TN34 1QR 01424 725 123 HAWTHBUSH FARM Heathfield, TN21 0JY 01825 212 020 HENDALL MANOR BARNS Uckfield, TN22 4BU 01825 732 561 | hendall.co.uk HERSTMONCEUX CASTLE ESTATE Hailsham, BN27 1RN 01323 833816 | herstmonceux-castle.com HOME FARM Uckfield, TN22 4BY homefarmevents.uk HOOKSTEAD Crowborough, TN6 1RH 01892 653 803 | eastsussex.gov.uk HORSTED PLACE Uckfield, TN22 5TS 01825 750 581 | horstedplace.co.uk HYDRO HOTEL Eastbourne, BN20 7HZ 01323 720 643 | hydrohotel.com LAUGHTON BARNS Laughton Road, BN8 6BN 01273 694 111 circacirca.com/laughton-barns LEWES CASTLE Lewes, BN7 1YE 01273 486 290 | sussexpast.co.uk LIMEKILN Crowborough, TN6 3HD 01892 572 572 | limekilnsussex.co.uk MANOR BARN Bexhill-on-Sea, TN40 2JA 01424 220 231 themanorbarnbexhill.co.uk MICHAEL HALL SCHOOL Forest Row, RH18 5JA 01342 822 275 | michaelhall.co.uk MICHELHAM PRIORY Upper Dicker, BN27 3QS 01323 844 224 | sussexpast.co.uk MID SUSSEX GOLF CLUB Ditchling, BN6 8XJ 01273 846 567 | midsussexgolfclub.co.uk MONTAGUE FARM Pevensey, BN24 5BB 07598 920 285 weddingsatmontague.co.uk NEWHAVEN FORT Newhaven, BN9 9DS 01273 517 622 | newhavenfort.org.uk OASTBROOK ESTATES LTD Robertsbridge, TN32 5XA 07496 727 014 | oastbrook.com photographybycharli.com LOCAL VENUES 11
OTHAM COURT Polegate, BN26 6QS 01323 484 342 ceremoniesineastsussex.co.uk PEKES MANOR Hailsham, BN27 4AD 01323 364 630 | pekesmanor.co.uk PELHAM HOUSE Lewes, BN7 1UW 01273 488 600 | pelhamhouse.co.uk PETLEY WOOD WEDDINGS Battle, TN33 0RE 07766 102 643 petleywoodlandweddings.co.uk PLUMPTON RACECOURSE Lewes, BN7 3AL 01273 890 383 plumptonracecourse.co.uk POWDERMILLS HOTEL Battle, TN33 0SP 01424 775 511 | staycrafted.com ROEBUCK HOTEL Forest Row, RH18 5JL 01342 823 811 | greenekinginns.co.uk RYE TOWN HALL Rye, TN31 7LA 01797 223 902 ceremoniesineastsussex.co.uk SALTMARSH FARMHOUSE Seaford, BN25 4AD 07932 686 121 saltmarshfarmhouse.co.uk SOUTHOVER GRANGE Lewes, BN7 1TP 0345 608 0198 ceremoniesineastsussex.co.uk SOVEREIGN HARBOUR YACHT CLUB Eastbourne, BN23 5QF 01323 470888 | shyc.co.uk STONE HOUSE COUNTRY ESTATE Rushlake Green, TN21 9QJ 01435 830 553 | stonehouseevents.co.uk SWALLOWS OAST Ticehurst, TN5 7HE 01580 200 638 | swallowsoast.co.uk THE ALFRISTON Alfriston, BN26 5TW 01323 870 248 | classicbritishhotels.com THE BEAR INN BURWASH Etchingham, TN19 7ET 01435 882 540 bear-inn-hotel-burwash.co.uk THE BELL IN TICEHURST Ticehurst, TN5 7AS 01580 200 300 | thebellinticehurst.com THE CHANTRY Turners Green, TN21 9RA 01454 414 268 | thechantry.org.uk THE CHERRY BARN Rye, TN31 6XS 07796 545258 | thecherrybarn.co.uk THE GALLIVANT Camber Sands, TN31 7RB 01797 225 057 | thegallivant.co.uk THE GEORGE IN RYE Rye, TN31 7JT 01797 222114 | thegeorgeinrye.com THE GREAT HALL, ST LEONARDS ON SEA St Leonards on Sea, TN37, 6AS eastsussex.gov.uk THE LANSDOWNE HOTEL Eastbourne, BN21 4EE 01323 725 174 | lansdowne-hotel.co.uk BUXTED PARK HOTEL 12
THE MILWARDS ESTATE Laughton, BN8 6BN 07801 477 941 | themilwardsestate.co.uk THE MONASTERY Rye, TN31 7LE 07931 765 488 | themonasteryinrye.com THE OBSERVATORY SCIENCE CENTRE Herstmonceux, BN27 1RN 01323 832 731 | the-observatory.org THE OBSERVER BUILDING Hastings, TN34 1DT 01424 230 222 theobserverbuilding.org.uk THE OLD RECTORY Hastings, TN33 5ND 01424 422 410 theoldrectoryhastings.co.uk THE PILGRIMS REST Battle, TN33 0AE 07552 873 448 | pilgrimsrestbattle.co.uk THE RELAIS COODEN BEACH Bexhill-on-sea, TN39 4TT 01424 842 281 therelaiscoodenbeach.com THE ROYAL VICTORIA HOTEL St Leonards On Sea, TN38 OBD 01424 445544 | royalvichotel.co.uk THE STAR INN Alfriston, BN26 5TA 01323 870 495 | thepolizzicollection.com THE SUSSEX BARN Hellingly, BN27 4EW 07966 614 225 weddingbarn-hellingly.co.uk THE VIEW HOTEL Eastbourne, BN21 4DN 01323 433 900 theviewhoteleastbourne.com TRADING BOUNDARIES LTD Nr Fletching, TN22 3RB 01825 790 200 | tradingboundaries.com WADHURST CASTLE Wadhurst, TN5 6DA 01892 784262 | wadhurstcastle.co.uk WELLSHURST GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB Hellingly, BN27 4EE 01435 813 636 | wellshurst.com WILDERNESS WOOD Hadlow Down, TN22 4HJ 01825 830 509 | wildernesswood.org WINGROVE HOUSE Alfriston, BN26 5TD 01323 870276 wingrovehousealfriston.com YORK HOUSE HOTEL Eastbourne, BN22 7AP 01323 412 918 | yorkhousehotel.co.uk Brighton & Hove BRIGHTON BANDSTAND Kings Road Arches, BN1 2LN 01273 290 394 brightonbandstandweddings.co.uk BLANCH HOUSE 17 Atlingworth Street, BN2 1PL 01273 603 504 | blanchhouse.co.uk BRIGHTON COLLEGE Eastern Road, BN2 0AL 01273 704 328 | brightoncollege.org.uk BRIGHTON HARBOUR HOTEL 60-64 Kings Road, BN1 1NA 01273 323 221 | harbourhotels.co.uk BRIGHTON I360 Lower Kings Road, BN1 2LN 0333 772 0360 | brightoni360.co.uk BRIGHTON PIER Madeira Drive, BN2 1TW 01273 609 361 | brightonpier.co.uk BRIGHTON TOWN HALL Bartholomews, BN1 1JA 01273 292 016 | brighton-hove.gov.uk BANNATYNE SPA HOTEL LOCAL VENUES 13
DOUBLETREE BY HILTON BRIGHTON METROPOLE Kings Road, BN1 2FU 01273 775 432 | hilton.com DUKE OF YORK PICTURE HOUSE Preston Circus, BN1 4NA 01273 818 549 | picturehouses.com HOLIDAY INN BRIGHTON - SEAFRONT 137 Kings Road, BN1 2JF 01273 329 744 | ihg.com HOTEL DU VIN 3-7 Ship Street, BN1 1AD 01273 718588 | hotelduvin.com LEONARDO ROYAL HOTEL BRIGHTON WATERFRONT Kings Road, BN1 2GS 01273 206 700 | leonardohotels.co.uk MALMAISON BRIGHTON Brighton Marina, BN2 5WA 01273 679 799 | malmaison.com MERCURE BRIGHTON SEAFRONT HOTEL 149 Kings Road, BN1 2PP 01273 225 502 | malmaison.com PROUD CABARET 83 St Georges Road, BN2 1EF 01273 605 789 | proudprivatehire.com SALTDEAN LIDO Saltdean Park Road, BN2 8SP 01273 751 515 | saltdeanlido.co.uk STANMER HOUSE Stanmer Park, BN1 9QA 01273 680 400 | stanmerhouse.uk SUSSEX COUNTY CRICKET CLUB Eaton Road, Hove, BN3 3AN 01273 827 100 | sussexcricket.co.uk THE AMERICAN EXPRESS COMMUNITY STADIUM Village Way, BN1 9BL 01273 542 343 prestigevenuesandevents.sodexo.com THE BRITISH ENGINEERIUM The Droveway, Hove, BN3 7QA 01273 557 972 thebritishengineerium.com THE GRAND HOTEL 97-99 Kings Road, BN1 2FW 01273 321188 | grandbrighton.co.uk THE HOVE CLUB 38 Fourth Avenue, Hove, BN3 2PJ 01273 730 872 | thehoveclub.com THE OLD SHIP HOTEL Kings Road, BN1 1NR 01273 329 001 | oldshipbrighton.co.uk THE ROYAL PAVILION Brighton, BN1 1EE 01273 292815 | brightonmuseums.org.uk THE SEAHORSE Kings Road Arches, BN1 2LN 01273 206 523 | seahorsebrighton.co.uk THE SECRET GARDEN Corner Of Bristol Gardens and Bristol Place, BN2 3RS 07727 112 132 secretgardenkemptown.co.uk NEWHAVEN FORT victoriadawephotography.com 14
Enjoy vintage vibes by the sea in one of Britain’s oldest cinemas The Dome, Worthing, opened its doors in 1911 making it one of Britain’s oldest cinemas. The treasured building boasts vintage décor and original features offering a classic choice of venue in Worthing to say, “I do”. What’s more, the fully licensed function rooms here spread across three levels and have recently been beautifully refurbished. Exchange your marriage vows and celebrate afterwards in the Upper Atrium in a romantic ceremony surrounded by 60 of your loved ones. Located in the dome at the top of the building, it boasts stunning 360-degree views and can be enjoyed over two floors. The larger Main Lounge is an ornately decorated space complete with mirrors, a chandelier, air conditioning and a bar with access to the 17ft-wide balcony overlooking Worthing Seafront and The Pier. It can host your ceremony for up to 120 guests, a wedding breakfast for 90, and later an evening reception where 150 guests can party the night away. Find out more at www.domeevents.co.uk The Dome, Worthing Scan to view video
At County Wedding Events each show is professionally and meticulously run to ensure a variety of suppliers are on hand to help you plan your big day and are hosted by some of the loveliest premier venues in your area. All our shows offer you free entry and parking, a goody bag each containing gifts, and useful local information to plan your wedding. You will also have the opportunity to enter prize draw competitions and take advantage of exclusive offers and discounts on the day. All shows 11am - 3pm (unless otherwise stated) AUTUMN 2026 WEDDING SHOWS COUNTY WEDDING EVENTS WHERE LOVE MEETS PERFECTION! COUNTY WEDDING EVENTS ESSEX LAYER MARNEY TOWER LAYER MARNEY, COLCHESTER, CO5 9US SUNDAY 18 OCT 2026 FENNES FENNES EST, BOCKING, CM7 5PL SUNDAY 22 NOV 2026 Don’t miss out! follow us on Facebook Follow our social media pages to keep up to date with our upcoming events! follow us on Instagram SURREY NUTFIELD PRIORY NUTFIELD ROAD, REDHILL, RH1 4EL SUNDAY 8 NOV 2026 TUDOR BARN BRITWELL ROAD, BURNHAM, SL1 8DF SUNDAY 25 OCT 2026 BUCKINGHAMSHIRE
BEDFORDSHIRE CHIDDINGSTONE CASTLE HILL HOATH ROAD, EDENBRIDGE, TN8 7AD SUNDAY 20 SEP 2026 KENT PORT LYMPNE ESTATE LYMPNE, CT21 4PD SUNDAY 13 SEP 2026 BRADBOURNE HOUSE NEW ROAD, EAST MALLING, ME19 6DZ SUNDAY 1 NOV 2026 FRASERS BARNHAMS MILL RD, ASHFORD, TN27 9DD SUNDAY 4 OCT 2026 HERTFORDSHIRE WARE PRIORY HIGH STREET, WARE, SG12 9AL SUNDAY 25 OCT 2026 THE CONSERVATORY LUTON HOO ESTATE LUTON, LU1 4LF SUNDAY 20 SEP 2026 PENSHURST PLACE PENSHURST, TN11 8DG SUNDAY 8 NOV 2026
Signature • Free entry • Goody bag for each couple • Up to 200 stands • Huge number of wedding specialists including venues • Demonstration areas • Competitions • Entertainment • Refreshments • And more... www.countyweddingevents.com/signature-events WEDDING SHOWS SUNDAY 20TH SEPTEMBER 2026 ASCOT RACECOURSE High Street, Ascot, SL5 7JX SUNDAY 18TH OCTOBER 2026 BLUEWATER Bluewater Pkwy, Dartford, DA9 9ST SUNDAY 27TH SEPTEMBER 2026 BRAINTREE VILLAGE Chapel Hill, Braintree, CM77 8YH SUNDAY 11TH OCTOBER 2026 MERCEDES-BENZ WORLD Brooklands Drive, Weybridge, KT13 0SL 11am-3pm 11am-3pm 11am-3pm 11am-3pm
Pre-register for all of our events at www.countyweddingevents.com X Sarah Here at County Wedding Magazines and Events HQ we’re looking forward to the next wedding show season – perfect for all those couples recently engaged. From must-visit local fairs in some of the region’s best wedding venues to our larger Signature Wedding Shows, we can’t wait to welcome nearlyweds to our events and help plan their wedding day. Each event will boast a huge range of specialists who will be on hand to talk through your planning ideas and requirements; venues, bridal boutiques, photographers, florists, cake makers and more, there’s everything you could need to plan your wedding under one roof. On the day refreshments will be available to purchase from each of the venue’s on-site restaurants, bars and cafés. Couples will need to pre-register in advance for an allocated arrival time, although on the day visitors are always welcome, and attending our shows are free! For more information, visit County Wedding Events’ website. We look forward to seeing you at one of our events. Sarah Ellis, Managing Director Ellis Media and Events Ltd. A date for your diary... GREAT EXPECTATIONS ASCOT RACECOURSE 20TH SEPTEMBER 2026 BLUEWATER 18TH OCTOBER 2026 MERCEDES-BENZ WORLD 11TH OCTOBER 2026 BRAINTREE VILLAGE 27TH SEPTEMBER 2026
Cottesmore Hotel Golf & Country Club, Buchan Hill, Pease Pottage, Crawley, West Sussex, RH11 9AT T: 01293 528256 E: events@cottesmoregolf.co.uk W: www.cottesmoregolf.co.uk Ceremony Room, Reception Rooms, Enclosed Courtyard, Outdoor Ceremony Space, Lakes, Bar & Restaurant, 26 Hotel Rooms, 7 Self-Catering Lodges, Health Club, Swimming Pool, Beauty Salon & 27 Holes of Golf Brand new function rooms and romantic outdoor ceremony space nestled within a tranquil tree lined glade licensed for up to 150 guests Photography by jacobmalinski.com The perfect country wedding venue set within 247 acres of stunning Sussex countryside
Host your Celebration at the Oldest Pub in Brighton First floor venue available for exclusive hire, late license and is perfect for Weddings, Engagement parties and other celebrations. Three stylish interlinked rooms holding up to 70 people with buffet or canapes, or 45 for a sit down meal. Private Bar Sound System & TV Bespoke Food & Drink Options Intimate wedding venue set in the heart of 'The Lanes' We’re just a stones throw away from Brighton Town Hall and the famous Brighton Bandstand so the perfect venue for your memorable wedding reception. The Greene Room @ The Cricketers 15 Black Lion Street, Brighton, BN1 1ND www.cricketersbrighton.co.uk 01273 329472 Visit our website now for more details or drop us an email info@cricketersbrighton.co.uk
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Silver screen romance Sussex’s own Burton and Taylor tied the knot in Worthing at St George’s Church, followed by celebrations at The Dome Cinema Images courtesy of ICPhotographics REAL WEDDINGS 23
Rob proposed to Mari in Greece during their first overseas holiday together. He researched the perfect spot to pop the question and thought he’d found a hidden gem of a beach. However, it turned out to be the busiest they’d ever been on! Rob persevered and eventually they found a quiet little grove with a sea view. He got down on one knee, but Mari had said “yes” before he even hit the ground! Mari grew up in Worthing, so the couple wanted to keep their wedding celebrations local, supporting as many Sussex suppliers as possible. With a Burton marrying a Taylor, a classic Hollywood theme was very much in order and The Dome Cinema called out to them. Mari opted for a 1940s-style dress, which she paired with sparkly Irregular Choice shoes, inspired by the iconic movie star look. The dress was the first she tried on as her mum had sent her a photo of it way before she even started looking. “It was so glam and stunning,” Mari shares. “With sparkles covering it, I knew it was the one for me!” Rob wore a purple suit with waistcoat and silver pocket watch Mari bought for him as an engagement gift. 24
The venue was packed with nods to the movies. Each table was named after a film such as the Burton and Taylor classic, Cleopatra, with the names scribed on mini clapper boards. Meanwhile, guests were given Walk-of-Fame-inspired wine glass charms as wedding favours. The main reception space was decorated with old film reels and life-size Oscar statues. The flowers too were inspired by Hollywood’s Golden Age, with their florist briefed to use the 1940s as the reference point for the bride’s bouquet. Guests were served popcorn in cinema-style cartons to accompany their welcome drinks. The wedding breakfast main course, fittingly for their seaside location, was fish and chips from their local chippy. This was followed by gelato from another local restaurant. Every table was served a different flavour encouraging guests to mingle and make up their own cone or tub combos. A caricaturist was on hand to capture guests’ likenesses when they arrived at the Dome from the ceremony at St George’s. The newlyweds meanwhile, headed to the beach with their photographer, where they sat sipping Champagne and reflecting on the day so far. During the evening, a live rock pianist filled the dancefloor. Before we go, our bride Mari, has some very wise words for future couples: “Stick to your guns! Everyone always has a lot of opinions about your wedding, and most people are trying to be helpful, but don’t let it sway you from doing things your way.” REAL WEDDINGS 25
THE W-DAY TEAM Venue, The Dome Cinema, domeevents.co.uk Photography, ICPhotographics, icphotographics.co.uk Dress, Velvet Birdcage, velvetbirdcage.co.uk Suits, Happy Gentleman Bridesmaids’ dresses, JJ’s House Wedding rings, Orla James, orlajames.com Hair and makeup, Kitty-Boo Creative, kittyboocreative.co.uk Cake, Gosh Patisserie, goshpatisserie.co.uk Flowers, The Thinking Gardener, the-thinking-gardener.com Entertainment, London Piano Man, londonpianoman.com Entertainment, Soozi Caricaturist, susanharrison.biz Catering, Chipwick, chipwick.co.uk Catering, G-Lite, g-liteworthing.co.uk 26
Follow us on /CountyWeddingEvents @CountyWedEvent @countyweddingevents Sunday 18th October 2026 11am - 3pm Bluewater Pkwy, Dartford, Greenhithe DA9 9ST IN ASSOCIATION WITH HOSTED AT BLUEWATER www.countyweddingevents.com One of the largest wedding shows to be held in the South of England. A huge number of wedding specialists on hand to inspire and advise on how to bring your wedding dreams to life. Plus! • Special offers on the day • The chance to win a luxury honeymoon • Entertainment • Refreshments and more... A Kent Signature wedding show at
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AND TIMELESS Fuss-free Soraya and Matthew’s timeless and intimate nuptials included their baby’s gender reveal for a double celebration Images courtesy of Gary West Photography Soraya and Matthew’s story began on the dating app Hinge, where they matched, and after several failed attempts at meeting, finally set up an impromptu date for drinks after work one night. Matthew texted Soraya asking for a second date before her train doors closed, and the rest is history. Matthew proposed to his love while on a boat trip in Capri. “My planned speech quickly went out of the window,” he shares. “With mumbled words and a racing heart, I asked Soraya to marry me.” The bride-to-be had attended two memorable weddings at Tottington Manor, and as soon as she showed it to Matthew, he was immediately won over. “Having everything on site – the ceremony, canapés, wedding breakfast and accommodation meant the venue offered us exactly what we wanted,” she explains. So, with the date set and an unfussy, simple and timeless theme in mind, plans were underway. Soraya wore a flowing, Grecian-style gown with a cape from Reiss, which complemented the eucalyptus used to decorate the ceremony room. The gorgeous greenery trailed along either side of the aisle, as well as the table used for signing the register. “It was a true vision,” Soraya remembers. Meanwhile, Matthew chose a tailored suit made by Paul Adler at Tom James. Tottington Manor offered local produce for both food and drink, which suited the couple perfectly as they were keen to ensure everything was as local as possible. “We also love Sussex wine, so the choice of Roebuck English Sparkling, Ridgeview Bloomsbury, and Poynings Grange Bacchus was the perfect offering,” Soraya says. “As we wanted an intimate, no-frills wedding, we tried to focus on three key things: good wine, good food and good company. Making sure the guests were topped up on local Sussex wine and delicious food in a beautiful setting meant we could also enjoy mingling inside and outside the venue.” The wedding breakfast featured a starter of soup of the day with crusty bread, sea bass fillet for the main course served with lemon caper butter, seasonal greens, buttered carrots and mashed potato, with a vegetarian option of seasonal squash and pine nut crumble tart with mustard drizzle. A delicious dessert of berry trifle with nutty granola crumble topping followed. The fire pits set up for the evening were a welcome addition as they allowed the couple and their loved ones to continue the celebrations al fresco. As Soraya was pregnant at the time, the couple decided to incorporate the baby’s gender reveal. They set up a confetti walk using coloured confetti cannons to reveal the news. “The gender was a surprise for us as well as our guests, so this was a really memorable way of receiving the news – only the venue staff knew the secret beforehand!” Soraya shares. Having organised a dreamy, intimate wedding day, the bride has some top tips for anyone looking to achieve the same: “Don’t get caught up in unnecessary extras and costs. Less is definitely more for an elegant, intimate feel. Focus on what really matters to you as a couple. My mum has always taught me that money can’t buy style, which is something I always swear by.” REAL WEDDINGS 29
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ROLL CREDITS Venue, Tottington Manor, tottingtonmanor.co.uk | Photographer, Gary West Photography, garywestphotography.com | Dress, Reiss Suit, Tom James | Bride’s accessories, Petershams, Cartier, Tu, and Next | Groom’s accessories, Benson & Clegg, Audeman’s Piguet, Charles Thyrwitt and Ferragamo | Wedding rings, Camelot Jewellers, 01273 208 125 | Hair stylist, Pretty Pout, prettypout.co.uk Cake, Mad Hatters, @madhatters1111 | Flowers, Flowers for Fun, @flowersforfunbygemma “ ” “Having some alone time walking the country road with the sun setting over the South Downs was a truly special experience.” 32
SLINDON HOUSE Slindon House, Top Road, Slindon, Arundel, West Sussex BN18 0RH Enquire Now Availability for 2026 & 2027 www.slindonhouse.co.uk A Beautiful Venue in West Sussex for your Wedding or Event
01273 464754 • info@southerntransit.co.uk www.facebook.com/southerntransitbuscompany www.southerntransit.co.uk Take a dive into history and make your special day truly unforgetable. At Southern Transit, our buses are a unique and remarkable way to transport your wedding party. From vintage interiors to beautifully presented exteriors, our buses provide the perfect backdrop for photographs for you and your guests to treasure in your wedding album for generations to come. Whether you are planning a countryside ceremony or a coastal celebration, our approachable, friendly and professional team guarantees a smooth and stylish journey that adds nostalgia and character into your wedding day. Stylish, stress-free wedding transport, bringing guests together in comfort, character and unforgettable style For Southern Transit, the journey is just as important as the destination. Based in the heart of the Sussex countryside near Brighton, this independent bus and coach company has built its reputation on creating memorable travel experiences, transforming group transport into a stylish and seamless part of any celebration. Whether transporting wedding guests between ceremony and reception venues, providing a striking arrival for the bridal party, or ensuring loved ones travel together in comfort, Southern Transit offers an impressive fleet of vehicles to suit every occasion. From beautifully preserved 1960s London Routemasters full of vintage charm to modern, luxurious double-deckers equipped with the latest eco-friendly technology and onboard Wi-Fi, every vehicle combines practicality with personality. Established in 2003, Southern Transit brings more than two decades of expertise to every booking. With roots in London transport and the sightseeing industry, the team has a genuine enthusiasm for delivering exceptional customer service and stress-free travel experiences. The knowledgeable staff and professional drivers are passionate about sharing their love for this environmentally friendly, affordable mode of transport. Catering for groups of all sizes, Southern Transit understands that reliable guest transport can be one of the most important elements of a successful wedding. Fully licensed and insured, Southern Transit has become a trusted choice throughout Sussex and beyond for weddings, special occasions and private events. Their commitment to comfort, reliability and outstanding service ensures every journey becomes part of the celebration itself. Find out more at www.southerntransit.co.uk All aboard!
This is a styled shoot with a difference, as we go behind the scenes at a Rosebud Portfolio Create and Capture Day Images courtesy of Scarlett Cook Photography CAPTURE The inspiration behind the Create and Capture Day came from working closely with hair and makeup artists and really understanding what they need to grow and stand out in the industry,” Becky Minton of Rosebud Makeup explains. Becky has worked on multiple portfolio days previously, and always found the collaborative environment to deliver beautiful, polished content to show brides, demonstrating technical skill at its best. But as the industry has evolved, she soon realised still images alone weren’t always enough, especially with the growing importance of social media and video content. “I wanted to evolve this into something more, bringing in both content creation and education,” she tells us. That’s where the idea for Create and Capture Day came in. “The focus shifted from just capturing beautiful portfolio images to also creating high-quality video content that artists can use across their social platforms, showing their personality, process, and artistry in motion.” Your Sussex Wedding editor Kelly was lucky enough to witness the day firsthand and observed the artists working directly with Hannah, queen of content creation from Han Picked Memories, learning about lighting, filming techniques and how to set up the perfect environment for creating engaging content. Award-winning industry expert Sharon was also on hand to speak about business mentoring, as was Scarlett, a leading wedding photographer and TikTok superstar, who shared insights into social media. The venue was also a huge part of what made the experience so special. “The space at The Dome in Worthing was absolutely perfect,” Becky says. “It’s one of the most beautiful settings and it truly elevated the whole experience.” The day came together beautifully, creating a supportive, creative environment, while expanding into something more educational, practical, and relevant for today’s industry. Join us as we go behind the scenes of the day with the creatives involved and showcase the resulting images, allowing you to see the hard work our local wedding aficionados put into constantly bringing you the very best services for your big day. They will not rest until your dreams come true! Create and “ LOCAL SHOOT 35
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THE DREAM TEAM Shoot coordinator and hair and makeup aritst, Rosebud Makeup, rosebudmakeup.co.uk | Venue, The Dome, domeevents.co.uk Photographer, Scarlett Cook Photography, scarlett-cook.co.uk | Dresses, Champagne & Lace Shoreham, champagneandlace.co.uk Accessories, Nicholls Jewellery, nichollsjewellery.com | Flowers, Wildflower Studio, wildflowerstudioflorist.co.uk | Venue styling, The Luxury Hire Co., luxuryhireco.co.uk | Content creator and educator, Han Picked Memories, hanpickedmemories.co.uk | Educator and hair and makeup artist, Sharon Roberts, sharonrobertshair.co.uk | Hair and makeup artists, @leahslockshairstylist, @zenamccarthy.makeup, @anoushkabeautystudio, @a_brushwith_elegance_bridal | Models, @yasmin.robins, @tugceardaroberts, @gaynorlouisebridal, @e.forsythmodel 38
Sullington Great Barn, Sullington Manor Farm, Sullington Lane, Storrington, West Sussex RH20 4AE • 01903 745 754 • info@sullingtonmanorfarm.co.uk www.sullingtonmanorfarm.co.uk Sullington Manor Farm Sullington Great Barn is a magical blend of rural charm and understated elegance for a weekend wedding. This breath-taking 15th century barn sits at the heart of a cluster of ancient buildings and in the midst of the South Downs. This is a truly distinctive wedding venue, in West Sussex. Your wedding day, your way – our approach is relaxed and flexible for a joyous wedding, unique to you. There’s a choice of spaces for your ceremony – indoor, outdoor or a church; a rose garden for drinks and late into the evening and four cottages, for up to 20 people, give you quality time with your loved ones. Book a visit – we’re more than happy to show you around! CASTLE GORING A venue like no other CG A4 Summer Wedding ad.indd 1 Set in the South Downs National Park on the outskirts of Worthing, this stunning Grade I listed Castle was described as “The most romantic Castle in the Land,” by the Great Romantic poet, Lord Byron. The Castle has many magnificent areas that can be used to stage your fairy tale day, including the grand State Rooms and State Dining Room with the table formerly used at Buckingham Palace. The Castle’s famous horseshoe staircase, installed by Queen Victoria’s Equerry, is one of the most popular settings for wedding party photographs. We offer two stunning locations to hold your Ceremony, the beautiful Ceremonial Hall with its double height ceiling, or on the South Lawns with the fabled Greco- Roman façade as your backdrop or alter. Castle Goring offers couples a choice of various catering companies, all with fantastic reputations, a passion for food and to suit a range of budgets. Castle Goring provides one of the most breathtaking wedding venues anywhere. Two unique ceremony locations... ...one of the UK’s best-kept secret Wedding Venues www.castlegoring.com Worthing, West Sussex BN13 3UN For a brochure or to arrange a tour contact: events@castlegoring.com • Telephone: 07979 755211 CASTLE GORING A venue like no other CG A4 Summer Wedding ad.indd 1 Castle Hire Up to 200 people from £1,950 Catering Castle Goring offers couples a choice of various catering companies, all with fantastic reputations, a passion for food and to suit a range of budgets.
Sustainable celebrations Control your carbon footprint with our eco-friendly wedding advice With around 250,000 weddings taking place every year, a frightening total of 3,625,000 tonnes of CO2 are emitted as a result, according to the Sustainable Wedding Alliance (sustainableweddingalliance.com). Indeed, an average wedding day in the UK generates a whopping 14.5 tonnes of CO2, whereas the annual per capita carbon emission is only 9.1 tonnes. The website further explains that food wastage is a significant issue with £488 worth wasted at every celebration, 65 per cent of a home’s annual total. What’s more, we’re told that 4,910 tonnes of un-recyclable plastic was used and left behind at weddings, an equivalent weight of 47 blue whales! If these shocking statistics scare you as much as they do us, you’ll no doubt want to do something about it when it comes to your own big day. The various solutions are actually quite simple, requiring just a little careful thought and planning. So, read on for our guide to organising a sustainable wedding from quick fixes to a wider strategy. Remember, every little helps. FASHION Much like the fast fashion crisis, where cheap clothes are purchased in staggering volumes, worn once and discarded into landfill, wedding dresses too are worn just for one day despite being at the opposite end of the investment scale. Buying a pre-loved gown or hiring are two solutions to this problem, ensuring the dress sees many more wears before it’s ultimately thrown away. For the gents, suit hire is already the more common option. Even if the groom and his party decide to purchase their suits, it’s generally easier for them to re-wear than a wedding gown is for the bride! However, going pre-loved isn’t for everyone. You may well have your heart set on one of the latest designs, or don’t like the idea that someone has worn your dress before you, and we don’t blame you. The sustainably minded should seek out bridal designers that share the same ethos. Sabina Motasem, for example, is a creator of eco-luxe bridalwear, while Rolling in Roses focuses on handmade, slow bridal fashion. When the big-day is over, keep your gown to hand down to future generations, sell or donate. When it comes to the bridesmaids’ dresses, why not send them out to shop for something they’ll wear again and again, including a brief that allows you to manage cohesion. FAVOURS Carefully consider your wedding favours as this is often a culprit for single use plastics that get left behind or chucked. Many couples now decide to skip this tradition altogether or opt for something consumable. We love anything edible or drinkable such as palette fitting macarons or personalised iced cookies which can double up as place names for even more sustainable care. Little bottles of booze also go down a treat and can be used during speeches to toast your happiness - “We tied the knot, now take a shot.” Another excellent idea is donating to charity in lieu of favours. Include a note on your place names, menus or table numbers to tell guests about the chosen charity you’ve donated to in their names. Many will offer charity pins as favours or attached to place cards as a thank you. Endless Summer, sabinamotasem.com unsplash.com@kaboompics 40
unsplash.com@kaboompics FLOWERS Wedding flowers can leave quite the carbon footprint when imported from overseas. To avoid this, look for a local florist that sources its beautiful blooms domestically from a local grower. You could even go direct to the source and get your flowers from a flower farm. Check out flowersfromthefarm.co.uk where you can find a directory of members near to you. Sourcing locally does mean you’ll be restricted to British blooms that are in season at the time of your wedding, but that’s no bad thing. Domestic varieties are some of the most fitting for weddings, think anemones, ranunculus and hyacinths to name just a few, not to mention the ever-popular peony. You can also search for a local florist who has sustainability at its heart, using floristry methods that are kind to the environment. For example, they might avoid the use of oasis in favour of moss or wool blocks. Repurposing is a key word here too. Think about how you can reuse your arrangements throughout the day. Meadow aisle arrangements can be moved to the reception tables, or a floral arch can double as a top table backdrop. Best of all, this saves you money too. Finally, consider how you can give your blooms a life beyond the big day. Some florists will offer you a breakdown service, where they’ll bunch up the flowers to gift to loved ones. You can also donate them to a local care home for example to brighten the day of its residents. And why not ensure your bridal bouquet lasts a lifetime and have it preserved in resin? Hiring faux flowers are also an option as is opting for dried flowers, just be careful to check out the process used to dry them. CAKE When it comes to the big-day bake, it’s the potential for wastage that’s cause for concern. If you want a multi-tier showstopper but that’ll mean more cake than your guests could ever get through, talk to your cake-maker about using false tiers iced to look like the real thing but able to be used again. Otherwise, seek advice on the size of cake you’ll need for your guests, don’t over order. Cake designers have the perfect formula for calculating how much you’ll need, and trust us, it’s less than you think. If you’re still left with cake at the end of the night, provide little recyclable boxes for guests to take some home with them. The two of you may also wish to set aside a tier to take home and freeze to enjoy later. As with many other elements of a sustainable wedding, shop local to cut down the miles your cake has to travel and ask your baker about their methods. For instance, do they use locally sourced, seasonal and organic ingredients? unsplash.com@kristycruzm_ CONFETTI You’d certainly be forgiven for not wanting to forgo your confetti shot. First-things-first though, check on your venue’s policy when it comes to the confetti throw, as some don’t allow it or have sustainability related stipulations. So, ensure as your guests reach for a handful of something to chuck at you that it’s biodegradable as well as romantic! Rose petals and dried lavender are lovely choices or make your own by punching out shapes from fallen leaves - a dream for autumn weddings. Another magical option is to provide eco-friendly bubble solution, allowing guests to shower you in a veil of pretty bubbles. Grow Your Own Confetti Garden, £30, glut.co.uk SUSTAINABILITY 41
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