Your Sussex Wedding - June/July 2020 (Issue 85)

Space to celebrate When it comes to outdoor cover, the possibilities are abundant, ranging from the classic marquee to the quirky tipi. Even if you want to host the majority of your day in the open air it’s important to provide some element of cover to provide shade and shelter. So, once you’ve decided on your dream location, style and budget, the next step is to get down to the nitty-gritty of how you want to lay out your big day. Kim says, “Have a clear idea of how you want events to flow and discuss with your wedding coordinator. Things like the marquee and loos will arrive a day or two in advance so they’ll need to know where to direct them if you can’t be there in person. Also, ensure there’s a natural migration of guests from ceremony space to reception area. Rustic signs made from old pallets can help point them in the right direction.” Kieran Harris of Great British Bell Tents also recommends careful consideration of logistics: “Is there a two mile walk from the church to the tipi? If so, why not hire a double decker bus to take your guests from A to B? Is your tipi in the middle of a field? I’d recommend a matted walkway lined with festoon lighting.” Whatever the weather No doubt, chief amongst your conc rns w en planning an outdoor wedding is our wonderful British weather. While there’s going to be a certain amount of just embracing it, there’s a lot you can do in terms of planning to minimise its impact. Kieran says, “Keep a close eye on the elements, not just on the big day, but on those your suppliers will be setting up. High winds or heavy rain may hinder them, so be prepared and have a plan if dates need to change. For example, do you have friends and family who could step in to help decorate if a later delivery means you won’t have time?” The wind will have an impact when you consider the best spot for your structure too, Kieran explains: “Find out which way the prevailing wind comes in. Chances are if you set up to face that beautiful view, that’ll be where it’s coming from, blowing straight into your tent! Could you rotate it to enjoy a different view perhaps? It’s also worth knowing what options your hire company offers if the weather turns on the day. Would they come out to drop the sides or is this something you could do yourselves? “All temporary outdoor structures have a wind- speed limit. The maximum will differ from tent to tent, or even in the way they’re set up. So, be sure to find this information out from your supplier and come up with a plan B in case you suddenly have to move to another location.” www.loveheartphotography.com for To Have and To Hire www.photographybybond.co.uk for Great Betley Farmhouse www.photographybybond.co.uk for Great Betley Farmhouse www.realsimplephotography.net for Great British Bell Tents www.scottkendallphotography.co.uk for To Have and To Hire 66