Your Sussex Wedding news and ideas from around the area

Expert advice on how to plan a wedding in 2024

Georgie Mitchell, Wedding Planner and Wedding Expert for online fashion destination Silkfred, shares her expert insight on how to plan a wedding in 2024. "Figure out your goals! Every wedding starts very differently and couples want different things. Sit together and decide what is the most important part of your wedding day - are you looking for a big party? Therefore drink and music may be key. Alternatively, if the look of everything is the most important thing, then this is where your money will be spent. Ensure you then allocate the budget and start with these suppliers."

Say 'I Do' to your dream smile: Transform your wedding smile within three hours!

Specialising in dental aesthetics, Smiles and Smiles will be exhibiting at County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Ascot Racecourse on Sunday 7th April, and Mercedes-Benz World on Sunday 28th April, where the team will be on hand to answer all of your questions. Are you envisioning your perfect wedding day, ready to dazzle everyone with the most radiant, picture-perfect smile? At Smiles and Smiles, with its state-of-the-art AI and 3D design technology, expert dentistry, and exceptional customer service, they will collaborate with you to craft your uniquely perfect smile. "We ensure that the results will leave you with newfound joy and a confidence boost for your special day," shares the team. "We're also thrilled to offer you a chance to win a smile transformation worth up to £3,000 when you visit us at our stand!* Don't miss out on this opportunity to turn your dream smile into reality!"

New destination bridal boutique at R L Austen in collaboration with Brown & Newirth.

R.L. Austen is a traditional, family-run independent jewellers, one of the oldest independent businesses in Chichester having been part of the High Street's landscape since 1794. Its long-standing reputation and exceptional service has built a loyal client base, often spanning multiple generations. To inspire future clients the store has recently created a destination bridal boutique in brand collaboration with Brown & Newirth. Located on the first floor is the stunning R.L. Austen bridal lounge. Furnished in blush and champagne, this dedicated space will effortlessly make you feel relaxed and comfortable. It's designed to offer you the space and privacy to browse the selection of engagement and wedding rings in real luxury.

Luxury gifts for all occasions with WOLF

The ultimate gift awaits with WOLF, a family-owned British brand, luxury jewellery boxes, travel jewellery cases, bags, watch winders and cases and a plethora of other accessories. Whether it's a pre-wedding treat for yourself, a thank you gift for your bridal party, or something you want added to your big-day giftlist, WOLF's beautifully designed jewellery boxes and cases are exquisite in design and intricate in detail and make the perfect travel accompaniment for your hen do or honeymooon. The Caroline Large Jewellery Box could be a wonderful maid of honour gift for the wedding season or a timeless classic gift for a mother, while the travel jewellery case Caroline Jewellery Portfolio, available in ivory, black or red, is perfect for securing precious items on your honeymoon.

Leonardslee Lakes and Gardens and the Surrey Sculpture Society launch new collaboration for 2024

Leonardslee Lakes and Gardens and the Surrey Sculpture Society have launched a new collaboration for 2024, showcasing local artists from Sussex and Surrey. The Society, which has previously exhibited during the summer months at the West Sussex estate, has designed and curated a new Art Walk featuring over 100 sculptures. The exhibition will run year-round in the Grade I Listed gardens, with admission included in the entrance price to Leonardslee. The design of the Art Walk and the artful location of each sculpture take advantage of the setting with its diverse range of trees and shrubs, often rare and threatened in the wild. The trail winds down to the estate's seven lakes and conveniently ends with a return shuttle service.

Close-up magic with Tommy Knight at two of County Wedding Events' Signature shows

Want to hear the 'oohs' and 'aahs' from excited guests on your wedding day? Why not hire a magician? Pop along to the County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Ascot Racecourse on Sunday the 7th April, and Mercedes-Benz World on 28th April, and meet magician Tommy Knight. "I'm a professional close-up and stage magician, recently becoming Surrey's 'Stage Magician of the year', and I'm really excited to meet you all at the show! I'm offering a 15% discount to anyone who books me after visiting my stand - so come and say hi!"

Investment deal set to shake up the stag and hen industry

Brighton-based tour operator The Stag Company has announced an exciting investment deal whereby Danish travel company Awesome Adventures Group has secured a significant shareholding in the company. The partnership will facilitate growth for both businesses within the stag and hen market, acting as a springboard for more competitive pricing and product portfolio expansion. The deal positions Awesome Adventures as the go-to ground agent for The Stag Company customers, which means they will be welcomed into resort via an infrastructure of teams in location, thereby elevating the customer experience.

Find your dream bespoke stationery suite with County Wedding Events

Finding those finishing touches for your wedding day is one of the most exciting parts of wedding planning, and you can find everything from your save the dates, to your place settings with Surrey's Simply Laura Calligraphy - exhibiting at County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Ascot Racecourse and Mercedes-Benz World this April! "If you're recently engaged and planning a wedding, firstly congratulations!" shares Laura. "When it comes to stationery designs, the possibilities are endless, from save the dates to place cards and on-the-day signage, Simply Laura Calligraphy helps bring your special day to life through print.

The host with the most - come and meet Toastmaster John

With many years experience in organising and coordinating weddings, golfing, sports and charitable events,Toastmaster John is on hand exhibiting at the Signature Wedding Show at Ascot Racecourse, and Mercedes-Benz World hosted by County Wedding Events. "Hi I'm John Heasman. Toastmaster John. Do you need that stress buster for your big day? Come and have a chat, it will be your best investment. From welcoming your guests to announcing your first dance. My service is remembered long after my price is forgotten."

Mother's Day ideas for the mother-of-the-bride

With Mother's Day just around the corner on Sunday 10th March, it's time to celebrate the unsung hero of weddings, the mother of the bride! It's time to shower her with the love and attention she deserves. From spa days to chocolates, meals out to heartfelt notes, there are countless ways to make her day special. Leading hen party company, Fizzbox dives into treating the mother of the bride this Mother's Day. Get ready for heartwarming ideas, laughter and maybe even a happy tear or two!

New data reveals the UK hotspots for wedding bliss

A new study has revealed the areas in the UK with the best vendors and venues for wedding ceremonies, with Essex being crowned top for both. The research conducted by photo wall art creator StoryBoards analyzed data, to identify the UK regions with the highest quantity of top-rated vendors and venues, including vineyards, cake companies, and stationary brands. Most brides and grooms will agree that planning a wedding is stressful, as trying to pull off an event that feels unique to the couple while managing expectations, budget, and family can be difficult at times. Thankfully, beautiful venues exist to help make the whole process easier.

Get your caffeine fix at our Signature Wedding Shows

Pop along to any County Wedding Events Signature Wedding Show and you'll discover a delicious Beanies sachet in your goody bag. "At Beanies we think life is all about flavour. So we've made a flavour coffee to suit every moment. Because sometimes it's a super Sticky Toffee kinda day. And others it's a cheeky Cherry Chocolate kinda day. You name it, we've got the full-on, all-out flavour to go with it. Every one is full to the brim with the biggest, boldest, most delicious-est tastes you can imagine. And they're sugar free and low in calories too, so it's guilt-free indulgence all the way. Whatever the occasion, we've got the flavour to match. From the moment the jar is popped open and releases the aroma, to the very last sip, we make sure that the experience is full-on and ultimately satisfying."

Find Natalie Chiverton Photography at two County Wedding Events Shows

Natalie Chiverton Photography is exhibiting at two County Wedding Events Signature Wedding Shows and has some exciting discounts for couples visiting on the day that you're not going to want to miss out on! "For couples planning to secure a photographer there will be a 20% discount across all my photography packages," shares Natalie. "Furthermore, if they confirm their booking within 14 days, they'll receive a £100 luxury wedding album gift voucher applicable towards any size album from Henley Albums. I'll have samples displayed on my table, and I'm eager to showcase the luxury album available.

Blake Lively creates a buzz with UK launch of Betty Buzz cans in Majestic

Hollywood actress, Blake Lively today announces the launch of her new 330ml Betty Buzz cans of premium adult soft drinks in the UK, available from Majestic. The Betty Buzz range of Sparkling Lemon Lime, Sparkling Grapefruit, Ginger Beer and Meyer Lemon Sparkling Sodas are all available from 207 Majestic stores and Majestic online in the UK. Betty Buzz is a collection of healthier gourmet sparkling sodas in new stylish tall slim cans. Within just two-and-a-half years, Betty Buzz has grown to become the world's number one premium adult soft drink on Instagram, with the most followers and highest engagement of any brand in this category globally. Made with fresh ingredients, the range is free from artificial preservatives, sweeteners, colours and flavours.

Wolfin' around with Watermill Wolves!

Wolves at your wedding is a big secret to keep! But that's what happened when the Watermill Wolves took part in Don't Tell The Bride recently. The groom was desperate to have Bond, the local business' top wolfie star, as ring bearer. But how to pull it off? The team came up with a cunning plan. Head trainer Natalie Lagstrom tells us more: "We met the groom for a sneaky swap; the rings for a silver whistle. When the ceremony began the groom cheekily handed his bride the whistle, much to her surprised. She nevertheless took it from him and sounded the call. Bond immediately answered, running towards her with the rings attached to a neck ribbon, hurtling up the aisle to gasps from assembled guests.

Tickets are on sale now for The Photography & Video Show

Tickets are on sale now for The Photography & Video Show, the largest event of its kind in the UK and Europe which will be returning in 2024 at the NEC. Taking place between 16 – 19 March, The Photography & Video Show is the destination for photographers, filmmakers, and content creators of all levels, from beginner to advanced amateur, and all the way through to established professional.

Content creators - the new wedding day must-have

As your wedding day grows ever closer have you thought about the next day and how you'll feel when it's all over? You spent so long planning it, you won't want it to end. With the rise of professional content creators, it doesn't have to! You can wake up the next day to a library containing thousands of pictures and videos allowing you to relive the big day for years to come. Sussex-based new business Han Picked Memories is leading the way in wedding content creation, and will work alongside your photographer and/or videographer capturing all the candid, intimate and natural moments throughout the day, allowing you to be present with one another and your loved ones.

Newly launched NimNik Glitter Tattoo Kit ideal for kids at weddings!

Boasting an impressive array of features, with 35 vibrant glitter colours, six fluorescent powders, 204 stencils, three adhesives, five brushes, and 215 rhinestones - the possibilities are limitless and will keep children happy for hours. This comprehensive set ensures that every user can unleash their imagination and bring their temporary tattoo visions to life. This glitter tattoo kit is not limited by age or gender; ideal for kids, girls, teens, men, women, and adults, it's perfect for occasions. The versatility of the kit allows users to explore different applications, such as eye shadow, body painting, DIY crafts, Christmas cards, birthday celebrations, or party decorations. The only limit is your creativity.

Bloom & Wild's exclusive insights into this year’s most anticipated flower trends

Brace yourselves for a vibrant floral revolution as 2024 bids adieu to the serene luxury trends of 2023, welcoming back maximalism with open arms. Bold statement pieces and lively colours are reclaiming their spotlight in the realms of fashion, interiors, and floral arrangements, marking a dynamic shift in the aesthetic landscape. Jo Reason, Director of Brand & Range at Bloom & Wild, predicts a surge in hyper-colour bouquets featuring fuchsia and electric lilac flowers paired with lime yellow foliages.

As the wedding season approaches, turn to Viners for a gift ideas

If you've been invited to a wedding and need some inspiration for what to give as a gift, we're sure you will find something within the Viners® range that the happy couple will enjoy for years to come. Opting for a cutlery set is a guaranteed hit. A sentimental and thoughtful gift to give your loved ones, a cutlery set will take care of any special dinner parties or occasions hosted by the newlyweds.