Your Sussex Wedding news and ideas from around the area

It's pamper time with Sussex's most popular spas

If you can't justify an indulgent spa break in the run up to your big day, when can you? Spabreaks recently revealed East Sussex National Golf Resort and Spa as Sussex's most booked spa following insights from its 2023 consumer data. It totalled 31 per cent of all bookings made in Sussex that year. Coming in in second place is Chakra Spa at Crowne Plaza Felbridge, Gatwick, closely flowed by Alexander House Hotel Utopia Spa, and Ockenden Manor. With the fifth most bookings in and around Sussex being for Ashdown Park. Spabreaks.com founder Abi Selby says, "It's always insightful to look back across the past year and see where and how customers are using the spa.

UK vs US Brides: Wedding expert reveals 5 ways we differ

It's time to settle the score: do UK brides really do it better, or are our American cousins stealing the show? Let's dive into the wedding warzone and explore five spicy differences that set us apart! According to a survey conducted by the UK's largest wedding venue collection, the Gilchrist Collection, there are some key differences in the ways Brits plan their big day, compared to that of Americans. Samantha Gilchrist, the owner of the Gilchrist Collection, has had the pleasure of helping thousands of engaged couples with their wedding, across 12 venues, both in the UK and US.

Soak up the sunshine at Ockenden Manor

As the weather warms, the sun shines and the grass grows greener, embark on a sun-soaked staycation with PoB Hotels, the distinguished collection of the finest independent hotels scattered across the British Isles, where the promise of summer splendour awaits. Stop and smell the roses at Ockenden Manor. This summer, stop and smell the roses at Ockenden Manor, a quintessentially English manor that is surrounded by the greatest and most beautiful gardens in Sussex. Be enthralled by a visit to three privately owned and heritage gardens of Sussex. The package includes two nights' accommodation, along with a guided tour and delicious Michelin-starred lunch at Gravetye Manor, entrance to High Beeches Gardens and Borde Hill, along with dinner and afternoon tea at Ockenden Manor.

Here are 10 must-have items to include in a wedding bathroom basket

Luxury bathroom experts at Posh.co.uk have shared ten must-have items to provide to make sure guests are well taken care of. Wedding bathroom baskets can be a really nice touch for couples to show their guests they care by providing them with everything they need for a comfortable evening. Including items like safety pins, deodorant, body tape and antihistamines will mean that guests won't have to worry about a thing. Andy Ellis from Posh.co.uk said: "Wedding bathroom baskets can be a really lovely touch at a reception by providing guests with all of those small but important items that they may not necessarily be able to bring with them.

The Speech Surgery: timings!

Unsure of when to have the wedding speeches? Heidi Ellert McDermott, founder of Speechy & author of The Modern Couple's Guide to Wedding Speeches has the answer: In the US, speeches are just as common at the rehearsal dinner (the formal dinner prior to the wedding that the 'top table' are invited to) as the wedding day itself. At many British weddings, the speeches are scheduled before the wedding meal; the idea that everyone is officially welcomed to the wedding and the speakers are quickly able to relax (and tuck into the free wine!).

Wedding day wines from leading English wine producer Gusbourne

English wine producer Gusbourne, has a stunning range of the finest vintage sparkling and still wines to elevate any wedding providing guests with an array of exquisite drinks that complement every element, from the welcome drinks to the wedding breakfast and toasts! With Gusbourne wines, every pour becomes a celebration of love and new beginnings, ensuring your wedding day becomes a truly unforgettable affair, brimming with sophistication, charm, and cherished memories. For a spectacular wedding reception, fill your guests' glasses with the exquisite Gusbourne Blanc de Blancs 2018, a sparkling masterpiece that exudes elegance with its delicate bubbles and refreshing, crisp notes. As guests raise their glasses to toast the happy couple, each sip is vibrant and intense, setting the tone for an evening of celebrations.

Celebrate English Wine Week at The Gallivant with exclusive tastings

In celebration of English Wine Week (Saturday 15th to Saturday 22nd June), The Gallivant Camber Sands, located close to the lush vineyards of East Sussex, invites guests to a series of tasting sessions. Sample a selection of excellent English wines, from the region's best producers including Oxney and Gusbourne. With one of the largest collections of English wine in the country, The Gallivant team has handpicked a selection of their favourites for six exclusive tastings. Guests can enjoy the tastings in the serene setting of the property's wild-flowered garden or within the intimate Cabin Room. Each event will be hosted by a local winery, offering unique insights into the craftsmanship and history of English wine production in the destination.