Your Sussex Wedding news and ideas from around the area

The Vineyard Hotel is the UK’s first combined golf and wine venue

Set among more than 750 acres of exceptional natural beauty you'll find the new Vineyard Hotel on the Leonardslee Estate. Paired with Benguela Cove Wine Estate in South Africa, it's the UK's first combined golf and wine venue. The Sussex estate this year launched new hotel accommodation with nine luxury bedrooms, as well as three premium sparkling wines from its own vineyards and a range of vineyard tastings and tours experiences. This adds to the attractions of the beautifully refurbished Vineyard Kitchen restaurant and Tasting Room, with two extensive terraces overlooking the magnificent Waterfall golf course. The beamed interiors date back to the 17th century and exude rustic charm.

Top tips for a happy marriage

Victoria Walker, family lawyer and partner at Moore Barlow gives her top tips for a happy marriage! A happy marriage is built on a foundation of effective communication, love and mutual respect. Here are my essential tips to strengthen your partnership and foster lasting happiness. Wishing you all the best for your hopefully happy ever after. Before getting married... Don't rush! Take your time to really get to know the person. Ensuring that you both share similar or complementary aspirations is key. I've encountered couples where one person desired early retirement or to work overseas while the other was not in agreement, leading to irreconcilable differences and the end of the relationship. There have also been instances where one partner was satisfied with a simple and less demanding lifestyle, while the other was not. Qualities that were initially endearing might become sources of frustration later on.

Come and see Daisy’s Flower Preservation at Bluewater

Finding a florist who just gets you is one of the best boxes to tick on your wedding to do list, but what will you do with those carefully selected flowers once the day is over? Come and see Kate and Hayley at Daisy's Flower Preservation at County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Bluewater on 6th October, to secure your flower preservation place, meaning you will be able to enjoy your gorgeous wedding day flowers for years to come. "Whether it's a bouquet, buttonholes, corsages, or a selection of flowers, we will preserve them into a beautiful design of your choice, and present them in high quality wooden frames," says Kate.

Balcombe Place lies tucked away in the heart of the Sussex countryside

Tucked away at the end of a private drive, in the heart of the Sussex countryside, surrounded by the greater Balcombe Estate, you'll find Balcombe Place. With views of the landscaped garden and the far reaching Downs, the house epitomises British country living. Available as an exclusive-use property, Balcombe Place is the perfect house for you to make your home. Whether you're there for the day, or the weekend, it will only be filled with your guests. It offers flexibility to use it as you wish, allowing you to create the day you've always dreamed of. The luxury, elegance and grandeur of Balcombe Place makes it an idyllic backdrop for your celebrations.

Big-day photographers on hand at Mercedes-Benz World

Visiting the County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Mercedes-Benz World on Sunday 13th October will enable couples to source their big-day photographer. Kent's The_DancingPhotographer will be exhibiting and face behind the camera, Natasha says, "I'm always there to capture the moments however big or small, I'll snap away, I'll pause the memories and be with you through it all. Be sure to come and say Hi and see what I offer. Can't wait to meet you!"

Complimentary text engraving and cleaning of engagement ring

The Diamond Setter brings a wealth of expertise in bespoke jewellery, redesigning heirloom pieces, crafting engagement and wedding rings and offering expert jewellery repair services. Gavin and Lorraine Marsh, the creative minds behind The Diamond Setter, have a refreshing hands-on approach with 'meet the maker' - which is exactly what you can do when attending the County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Bluewater. Lorraine says, "Mark an unforgettable milestone with our bespoke wedding bands, made at our very own workshop in Royal Tunbridge Wells. We specialise in shaped or contoured bands and diamond set bands, and couples can experience a bespoke consultation with dedicated customer service and an opportunity to speak to the jeweller and diamond setter."

Style your event to perfection with Elysium X Being

Elysium X Being are two brands passionate about affordable luxury; a flower specialist and a candle expert teaming up to create stunning surroundings for your special occasions. Imagine your favorite memory, what does it smell like? Our very clever brains have married our senses and our favorite memories to give us that nostalgic warm fuzzy feeling to transport us back to our favorite moments. Elysium & Being are working together to make sure you are able to store the best memories by giving you the best experience- smell, sight, touch and service.

Your dream honeymoon destination awaits

Grazia Caniglia at Hays Travel, is exhibiting at County Wedding Event's Signature Wedding Show at Merecedes-Benz World on 13th October - perfect for couples looking to book their dream honeymoon. Grazia says, "As an Italy and Greece Wedding and Honeymoon Specialist I'm thrilled to unveil the hidden gems and secret corners of these magical countries. My portfolio also offer other fantastic destinations such as St Lucia, The Seychelles, The Maldives and so many other truly incredible warm countries! "Whether you are looking for dream ceremony on the beach or a truly unforgettable honeymoon, I'm here to assist you. Please come and visit my stand at the Mercedes Benz World event and enter my competition to win a special prize!"

Meet Paul Talbot, a wedding photographer and videographer based in Surrey

Looking for your wedding photographer? Pop along to meet Paul Talbot at the County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Mercedes-Benz World on Sunday 13th October. Paul shares, "I'm Paul, a wedding photographer and videographer based in Surrey who shoots in a very relaxed style to help you and your guests feel at ease while ensuring you have plenty of time to enjoy your big day. "At each wedding I photograph, I go out of my way to ensure smiles from even the most camera shy. No matter the weather, I know I'm sharing the most remarkable experience with a couple, their family and friends. Everyone is happy, so what's not to love?

Hear live music at Bluewater wedding fair from Rose Gold String Trio

Visiting the County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Bluewater on 6th October will enable couples to hear the talented musician exhibiting at the event. Rose Gold String Trio is a highly regarded string trio specialising in weddings. One of the musicians, Sara, says, "Do come over to hear us play and discuss your wedding music requirements. We will create a wonderful ambience for your special day - and we play lots of styles, from Bach to Bridgerton!"

Maplehurst Farm offers a tranquil waterside setting on a working deer farm

Fiesta Fields is an outdoor wedding and events company, representing a range of gorgeous outdoor venues including Maplehurst Farm near Horsham. It offers a beautiful and peaceful waterside setting on a working deer farm. The farm creates a relaxed and tranquil vibe, perfect for celebrating your wedding surrounded by idyllic countryside. The venue offers an idyllic blank canvas if you're looking to celebrate in a way that's unique to you. The team at Fiesta Fields brings a wealth of event and project management experience, along with creativity, attention to detail and a knowledge of local suppliers. You're offered full or partial coordination, or an essentials package that includes land hire, power, loos, security and on-the-day coordination.

How to Manifest Anything: practical secrets to turn all your dreams into reality

Renowned manifestation coach and author Victoria Jackson has released her highly anticipated second book, How to Manifest Anything, published on 12th September 2024 by Octopus Books.Following the success of her debut book, "Manifesting For Beginners," Victoria returns with an essential guide that answers the most pressing questions about manifestation. "How to Manifest Anything" is written with Victoria's signature 'agony aunt' concept, providing a practical, dip-in-and-out collection of the most popular and recurring questions people have about manifestation as they incorporate it into their daily lives. Whether you're wondering how to manifest your soulmate, attract financial abundance, secure your dream job, or troubleshoot delayed manifestations, this book offers the guidance you need.

Holiday Inn London Gatwick Worth recently transformed by £9million refurbishment and extension

Nestled in the heart of Sussex, the four-star, AA-accredited Holiday Inn Gatwick Worth is just six miles from Gatwick Airport and moments from Crawley town centre. Recently transformed by a £9million refurbishment and extension, the venue boasts beautifully renovated event suites, each designed to the highest standards. Explore the beauty of Worth Park Gardens, just 1.6 miles from the hotel, offering a picturesque backdrop for capturing those unforgettable moments with your loved ones. The hotel also features a delightful courtyard area where the two of you can pose for timeless photos. In fact, surrounded by 60 acres of Crabbet Park, the venue's location provides ample opportunities for scenic photographs, ensuring your day is filled with cherished memories among a stunning natural setting.

Wedding open day at The Walled Garden

On Sunday the 13th October, Cowdray be opening the doors to The Walled Garden, one of the Estate's hidden gems. Join the team to imagine your perfect wedding day and find out all about hosting your dream day at this charming and romantic wedding venue, beautiful in all seasons. Enjoy complimentary canapés and refreshments as you explore this countryside venue and discover our two spacious reception rooms, Dressing Room, and of course the garden itself. Meet a selection of trusted suppliers and friends, including the in-house caterers The Yellow Kitchen, along with the experienced Cowdray Weddings team, and learn what they can do to make your day that much more special.

Do you believe in magic? Be in awe of Liam Ball at our Signature Wedding Show

Looking for your wedding day entertainment? There's nothing better than seeing it live and that's particularly important if you're thinking of hiring a magician. At County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Shows at Bluewater you can see magician Liam Ball perform. He says, "Weddings are one of the most magical days that two people can share, and I can't wait to be a part of yours. I'm Liam. An expert wedding host and master magician. Not only will I help to make sure that your day flows smoothly and on time, I will also ensure that your guests are entertained and have the best time celebrating your special day.

Celebrate national fitness day with Elite Hotels

The Grand Hotel Eastbourne (01323 412345; www.grandeastbourne.com) invites Health Club members to celebrate National Fitness Day, ideal for those who want to improve their fitness with a range of activities. Taking place on 18th September 2024, it's the UK's biggest celebration of everything health and fitness, inspiring millions of people to be active on one day to kick start a new healthy lifestyle. The Grand Hotel has an action-packed day of Power Yoga, a Sound Bath Meditation session, a Beginners Mobility session, designed to improve range of motion in the body, followed by a HIT session (High Intensity Training) on the front lawn of the hotel.

Turn Your Special Moments into Lasting Art

Capturing the essence of your most cherished life events, weddings, anniversaries, birthdays, and more, Elena Priestley Life Events Art creates personalised, live artwork to remember your special event. You can chat to Elena at the County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Mercedes-Benz World, Surrey on Sunday 13th October. Elena says, "Let me transform your unforgettable moments into timeless masterpieces. As your special day unfolds, I create a stunning, live illustrations of the magic and emotion in every moment. A unique, timeless keepsake of your wedding day, personalised just for you. Book your live wedding artist today!"

Come and meet award-winning magician and professional host, Derek Oliver

Award-winning magician and professional host, Derek Oliver, provides top-class magical entertainment throughout your wedding creating memories (and photo opportunities) that'll last a lifetime. Not only that, but he is a contemporary Master of Ceremonies, and the perfect choice to flawlessly manage your big day, bringing energy and fun as he guides you and your guests with grace and charm throughout. By combining the magic and hosting, you have his unique blend of Magical Master of Ceremonies that'll elevate your wedding to the event you dreamed of. And don't leave things to chance – he's a member of the world famous Magic Circle (Associate of the Inner Magic Circle with Silver Star no less!), Equity and Professional Master of Ceremonies Association and international magical associations. His three packages are crammed with offerings to suit any wedding.

Honeymoon gift-list inspo at the show

Dreaming of the perfect honeymoon but not sure how to make it happen? Travel Counsellor Tracy Goffin can plan it for you! "You don't need gifts, and asking for money isn't your style. Let me take care of it with our Gift Registry Service!" says Tracy. "Here's how it works: We'll send an email to all your guests. They click the link, write a personalised eCard, and contribute to your dream honeymoon. Simple, thoughtful, and exactly what you need! For more information, visit me at my stand."

Dream wedding dress goals found at Ascot Racecourse

Brides Walking The Runway is your premier Bridal Shop destination, offering a stunning collection of wedding, prom, special event gowns and accessories for both purchase and hire. Discover the perfect dress that will make you feel confident and beautiful on your special day. Owner Joan, who you can meet at the event, created a custom dress for a beauty pageant contestant who happens to be an NHS Surgeon, and she won! The team will be there and we would love to meet folks to answer any questions about the brand and the experience we offer.