Your Sussex Wedding news and ideas from around the area

The Sussex spa experience

For many of us in the UK, the word sauna conjures images of dry, overheated gym boxes we tolerate rather than enjoy—but for Katie Bracher, founder of Wild Spa Wowo in Uckfield, that perception was completely transformed. A chance encounter with a wood-fired, festival pop-up sauna opened her eyes to a nurturing, soulful tradition she'd never experienced before. That moment sparked a journey that led her through culturally rich sauna communities, rooftop spa projects, and eventually to launching her own beloved beachside sauna business. Today, Katie is a passionate advocate for authentic sauna culture, blending ritual, nature and community in a way that feels both grounding and deeply revitalising.

‘Til death us do part: making plans for beyond your future.

On 16th May 2025 the Law Commission published its recommendations on wills and proposed a new statute. This is the first significant reconsideration since the Wills Act 1837 which is still effective today. Life was quite different in 1837. Queen Victoria ascended the throne aged 18 years old. Any property owned by a women on marriage was transferred automatically to her husband. It would be 40 years before Thomas Edison lit up the first electric lightbulb.

Artemis Becomes First UK Venue Group to Achieve Sustainable Wedding Alliance Accreditation

Artemis, a leading UK wedding venue group, whose head office is based in North Wales, is delighted to announce that it has been awarded accreditation by the Sustainable Wedding Alliance (SWA). This prestigious recognition, a culmination of a partnership that began in September 2023, marks Artemis as the first venue group in the UK to be officially accredited by the SWA. The partnership focused on embedding robust, sustainable practices throughout Artemis's head office operations, setting a benchmark for environmental and social responsibility within the wedding industry. The Sustainable Wedding Alliance is a respected organisation dedicated to promoting genuine sustainability throughout the wedding sector. Their rigorous accreditation programme recognises businesses that demonstrate a strong commitment to ethical practices, social inclusion, and a reduced environmental impact.

Bridebox - the bridal subscription box for DIY brides

Each beautifully presented box contains everything needed to create stunning wedding crafts and personalised keepsakes, alongside thoughtful self-care treats designed to help you pause and truly enjoy your engagement journey. With clear, friendly instructions and all materials included, Bridebox takes the guesswork out of adding personal touches to your big day, allowing you to experience the satisfaction of creating something meaningful while taking precious moments for yourself amidst the planning whirlwind. More than just crafts, each Bridebox offers an opportunity to learn new skills, experiment with different ideas before committing to larger wedding projects, and perhaps most importantly, provides that perfect excuse to set aside the to-do list, brew a cuppa, and reconnect with the joy that should always be at the heart of your wedding planning adventure.

Cake International returns for 2025

The world's premier cake decorating and baking show, Cake International, is back for 2025 and it's bringing even more flavour with it. Co-located with the ever-popular Bake International, this year's show promises to be the most spectacular yet, with new features, industry-leading exhibitors, hands-on workshops, and a landmark celebration to launch the Cake & Bake International Awards. Find out more here.

Savour the flavours of the South-East: Elite Hotels launches the ‘perfect stay’ this autumn

Elite Hotels invites guests to experience the very best of British culinary craftsmanship this autumn with a collection-wide celebration of seasonal dining. Across its distinguished country house hotels — Ashdown Park Hotel & Country Club in East Sussex, The Grand Hotel Eastbourne, and Tylney Hall Hotel & Gardens in Hampshire — each property offers a sensory journey through Britain's finest local flavours. With a focus on provenance, sustainability, and creativity, every menu highlights regional produce such as wild Sussex game, South Downs lamb, heritage vegetables, and Cornish seafood. Each hotel's executive chef proudly collaborates with local farmers, butchers, cheesemakers, and growers, crafting elegant, innovative dishes that showcase the richness of British ingredients and culinary tradition.

Wedding reforms: Freedom, flexibility… or fancy-dress farce?

Following a recent announcement of major reforms to the wedding laws in England and Wales, Kate Van Rol, barrister at 4PB advises what these changes could mean... The government's latest plan to reform weddings has been met with excitement, curiosity, and the occasional raised eyebrow from the vicarage. Ministers promise to liberate love from the clutches of red tape – simplifying the marriage process and allowing couples to wed in a manner that truly reflects their beliefs, personalities, and (let's be honest) Instagram aesthetic. Under these proposals, couples will no longer be bound by the old rulebook of marrying only in a church or registry office. Instead, weddings could take place almost anywhere – in gardens, on beaches, aboard boats, or even in a back garden with a barbecue and a borrowed gazebo. Religious and non-religious groups alike would be able to conduct legally binding ceremonies. It's marriage law for the modern age — simple, flexible, and tailor-made for a society that's allergic to formality. But as with all government reforms that sound too good to be true, there's a catch or two lurking beneath the confetti.

Adventures in cake with Caritas Cake Design

When we first saw Jade and Chris's stunning wedding cake, we instantly fell in love — and knew we had to meet the talent behind it! Carrie Raymond, owner of Caritas Cake Design in Billingshurst, created the breathtaking bake and shared how she guides couples through the design process. "There are endless directions you can take with a wedding cake," Carrie explains. "I help couples find a style that feels naturally 'them' by drawing inspiration from their existing wedding details." For Jade and Chris, that meant echoing the tones of their bridesmaids' dresses, florals, and stationery — even including a hand-painted monogram inspired by their invitation. The result? A beautifully cohesive and deeply personal centrepiece.

Would you like to win your hen do?

GoHen.com, one of the UK's leading hen party planners, are giving one lucky bride-to-be the chance to win her entire hen weekend for free. Yep, one lucky group will win an unforgettable GoHen weekend for 10 friends worth £2,000 – for free! With 70+ amazing destinations across the UK and Europe, and 1,000s of activities and accommodation options to choose from, you can make your send-off exactly how you imagined it – whether that's spa days and cocktails or beach clubs and bottomless brunches.

A meaningful Christmas gift

Knowing what to get your loved ones a Christmas seems to get harder every year. What to get people who seemingly want nothing but have everything? This year, gift them mindfulness with Myind Map MY Journal. created by Rosemary Ikpeme, this journal takes users on a 90-day journey of self-discovery and mindfulness activities. This journal blends productivity tools with mindset practices, combining visualisation, the law of attraction, and colour therapy illustrations to support reflection and manifestation.

Deck the halls with Historic Sussex Hotels

Historic Sussex Hotels truly come alive during the festive season, offering a trio of enchanting Christmas experiences across their beautiful properties. At Ockenden Manor, guests can indulge in a delicious two-course lunch and spa visit before heading to nearby Wakehurst to enjoy a magical illuminated light trail through the gardens. Over in Midhurst, The Spread Eagle Hotel invites guests to its beloved Stir-Up Sunday event, where Executive Chef Martin Hadden shares his perfect Christmas pudding recipe — complete with lunch and take-home puddings. Finally, experience the magic of 'Carols by Candlelight' at Bailiffscourt's 13th-century chapel, where the stunning acoustics and candlelit glow accompany the heavenly voices of The Agnes Collective for a truly unforgettable evening.

The 3 Golden Rules for Choosing the Right Wedding Jewellery

With Married at First Sight dominating our screens from Sunday to Thursday, it's hard not to be inspired by the stunning bridal looks, sparkling jewellery, and dreamy hairstyles on display. Whether you're planning your own big day or simply daydreaming about it, finding the right accessories is key to creating a look that feels uniquely yours. From statement earrings to delicate hairpieces, the perfect finishing touches can elevate your ensemble from beautiful to unforgettable. Experts at Abbott Lyon have revealed how to choose wedding accessories that balance timeless elegance with your personal style.

Bay Tree Food announced as 2025 finalist in the UK Small Business Awards

Congratulations to Sarah Blay, owner of Bay Tree Foods, who has been named a 2025 finalist in the UK Small Business Awards for Female Entrepreneur of the Year. With over 30 years of experience in the catering industry, Sarah launched Bay Tree Foods 11 years ago, beginning with intimate family events before expanding to cater for numerous weddings each year. Her signature style is relaxed, family-friendly dining — from barbecues and hot meals to tea parties and grazing tables — offering both flavour and value for today's budgets. Every booking includes a personalised tasting and planning meeting, plus a venue visit to ensure everything runs smoothly. Supported by trusted local suppliers, Sarah's hands-on approach helps create unforgettable wedding celebrations.

A luxurious hamper with an added personal touch

For anyone looking for an outstanding wedding gift, a luxurious hamper with an added personal touch is an ideal option. Top Hampers was born from the belief that gifts should mark an occasion in a way that is meaningful and memorable, to enable you to give gifts that are thoughtful and personalised, showing just how much you care. They have used their expertise to create a range of ready-to-go wedding hampers. These are perfect if you are short on time ahead of the wedding, as you can rely on Top Hampers for quality and the personal touch, while knowing the hampers can be delivered the next working day.

One in three Brits skip weddings over sky-high guest costs

Despite being one of the biggest factors in long-term relationship success, money is still a taboo topic for most couples. New research from HSBC UK reveals that three in four Brits (75%) consider financial compatibility essential. The nationwide survey of 2,000 adults explored how modern couples navigate finances - from dating apps to wedding vows - and the pressures, expectations and unspoken rules that come with spending in relationships. The impact of this silence is clear, with 58% of couples having argued about money.

Say I Do to Deliciously Personalised Wedding Favours with Eddie, the Edible Ink Printer

Are you looking for one-of-a-kind wedding favours that also taste delicious? Look no further. Eddie, the Edible Ink Printer, is here to help create unforgettable edible decorations for your special day. This innovative technology by DTM Print, a specialist in unique printing technology with an office in East Sussex, can print directly onto a variety of food items, including biscuits, macarons, marshmallows, mints, M&Ms, ice cream wafers, white chocolate discs and much more. Eddie uses a special edible ink that is 100% safe to eat, with no aroma or taste, and is approved for consumers who are Halal, Kosher, Vegan, or have nut allergies. This ensures that your edible creations are both beautiful and safe for all your guests.

Chilston Park Wedding Fair hosted by County Wedding Events

If you're newlyweds-to-be embarking on your wedding planning journey, pop along to the County Wedding Events wedding show at Chilston Park, Kent, for inspiration on Sunday 26th October 2025 - 11pm - 3pm! Sister company to County Wedding Magazines, the event brings couples face-to-face with local professionals who are on hand to help plan the wedding day. From photographers to cake makers, musicians to florists you're sure to tick a lot off of your to-do list by attending one of our County Wedding Events. There is something about Chilston Park that gives the perfect wedding day a little extra sparkle. Hold your dream wedding ceremony in an elegant period room; this 17th-century manor house has plenty to explore. Surrounded by 77 acres of stunning Kent parkland, Chilston Park is tailor-made for memories.

Kate & Kate Celebrants make it to the finals of the AOIC Celebrant Awards 2025

Dynamic duo Kate & Kate Celebrants are celebrating their success as finalists in the AOIC Celebrant Awards 2025, with results due on 27th September. With over 20 years of experience and a string of accolades, the pair are renowned across Sussex and the South East for crafting ceremonies that are anything but ordinary. From joyful weddings and heartfelt funerals to meaningful vow renewals and naming ceremonies, every script is uniquely written to reflect the people at its heart. Alongside their award-nominated work, Kate and Kate also tutor with Match & Dispatch Celebrant Training, inspiring the next generation of celebrants. Their warmth, professionalism, and trademark humour have earned them countless five-star reviews and loyal fans across the UK.

Changing your name after the wedding

When the confetti settles and you're left with a shiny new name, the natural panic starts to set in "what documents do I need to change?" An aspect many don't consider until they have to, is the seemingly endless list of documents that now need updating. Below is a list of all the official bits you'll need to look at, now that you're embarking on newlywed bliss.

FINDING YOUR SEASON

Whilst a summer wedding is traditionally considered the most popular time to tie the knot, there are many reasons why couples choose other seasons for their celebrations. For many, choosing a date comes down to a mix of budget, venue availability, work schedules and personal preferences. Whether you adore autumn's vibrant colours, the blossoms of early spring, or heartwarming winter celebrations, each season has unique charms to inspire your wedding plans. From selecting sun-kissed summer cakes and bespoke gifts, to arranging autumnal barn dances or finding local caterers with seasonal produce; this guide helps you host a wedding for all the seasons