Your Sussex Wedding news and ideas from around the area

Calling all men out there who need to get their side of things sorted – the outfit.

Whether you're the groom, best man or father of the bride, dressing for a wedding can be a sartorial minefield - you want to feel your best on the Big Day. Don't stress, Charles Tyrwhitt have your back – they've got every dress code covered, from the finest morning suits to luxe tailoring in all kinds of fabrics, designs and fits. They'll be exhibiting at the Bluewater Wedding Fair on Sunday, 1st March. Don't miss out on the opportunity to check out their smart menswear and get expert advice on what to wear for your wedding occasion, no matter your role on the day. Size and fit can differ vastly depending on suit fabric and style, so you'll be able to ensure the dream fit by booking an appointment at the Bluewater store. You'll get one-on-one fitting and styling advice from the Tyrwhitt experts, so you'll nail that wedding look – effortlessly.

Bluewater's Signature Wedding Fair hosted by County Wedding Events

We live and breathe weddings at CWM towers, so we can't wait for our Signature Wedding Show at Bluewater on Sunday 1st March 2026! It's one of our Signature Wedding Shows of 2026's Spring wedding show season; and a must-visit for all those that got engaged over the summer months. The event brings couples that are desperate for face-to-face wedding planning in touch 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.

What’s next for weddings? The Wedding Shop reveals all

Multi-award-winning gift list service, The Wedding Shop has revealed new data, showing the trends that are shaping weddings and couples' gift lists for 2026. Based on information from over 80,000 couples gathered since 2019, the leading personal gift service has looked at changes in how couples are choosing to celebrate, and how their dearest and nearest are gifting them to mark their special day with some surprising results.

Getting married soon? Sort finances before saying 'I do'

A wedding is a promise of a shared future, but concerningly, especially when it comes to retirement, many couples delay discussion of how they'll plan for their future finances. Mapping out your finances to track life's milestone moments long before the big day is important to ensure both partners feel confident and prepared - from the prospect of taking a possible career break, to job loss, potential illness and being comfortably affording retirement.

Countdown to County Wedding Events' Signature Wedding Show at Ascot Racecourse

We live and breathe weddings at CWM towers, so we can't wait for our Signature Wedding Show at Ascot Racecourse on Sunday 22nd March 2026! It's one of four Signature Wedding Show of 2026's Spring wedding show season; and a must-visit for all those that got engaged over the winter months. The event brings couples in touch 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.

The UK Hen & Stag Destinations Everyone’s Booking for 2026

Once dominated by big nights out and budget flights abroad, hen and stag parties in the UK are having a rethink, and things are now looking very different. Research suggests that pre-wedding celebrations could be completely sober as early as 2040, with groups instead embracing alcohol-free celebrations that they're more likely to remember. Also, rising travel costs, tighter schedules and a growing appetite for wellness experiences are pushing more groups to stay closer to home.

The philosophy of white - Pantone's Colour of the Year

White has always been more than a colour; it is the quiet space between thought and form, the light-filled pause where the eye rests and the mind find clarity. Today, in a world buzzing with distraction, white takes on renewed significance. Pantone's selection of PANTONE 11-4201 Cloud Dancer as the Colour of the Year 2026 celebrates this very essence - a lofty, aerated white that whispers calm and serenity into a frenetic society. At James Cropper, the historic British papermaker, white is not just a conceptual ideal - it is a craft, a product, and a philosophy...

Wedding Flower Trends Set to Bloom in 2026

As couples begin planning their nuptials for the year ahead, 2026 wedding trends are already coming into bloom. Drawing inspiration from the likes of Bridgerton and regency-era romance, Lucy Hook, Floral Lead at Bloom & Wild, shares how brides and grooms can embrace these tones through their floral choices creating looks that feel understated yet refined, moving away from bold brights toward something more subtle, romantic and dreamlike.

Hen Party Trends for 2026

Hen parties in 2026 are shaping up to be even more expressive, more personal and far more adventurous than the familiar nights out of the past decade, according to hen party experts Book a Party. Brides and their friends are leaning into weekends that feel curated rather than copied. There is a clear move toward experiences that tell a story about the bride and the group. People want something that feels fresh and clever but still relaxed enough that everyone can enjoy themselves without pressure.

Diamonds are a girls best friend

Diamonds Factory has opened a new store in Brighton offering a one-of-a-kind experience for customers looking to design their dream engagement rings and jewellery pieces with expert guidance and ethical craftsmanship. The new store has been thoughfully planned to create a serene, friendly setting where clients can browse an assortment of jewellery, ranging from traditional solitaires to trendy and alternative collections that cater to individual style. From private consultations to tailored design guidance, the Brighton team delivers a welcoming experience to guarantee every client finds a piece to perfectly match their story. Discover the new Diamonds Factory at 26B North St, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 1EB

Expert Reveals Why Winter Weddings Are Making a Big Comeback in the UK

Once considered the "off-season" of the wedding world, winter is now becoming one of the most sought-after seasons for UK couples tying the knot. Industry experts say the trend is more than a passing phase, but rather it's the start of a long-term shift in how Brits envision their perfect day. To understand why couples are turning to crisp days, cosy settings, and festive flair, we spoke with Nick Bramer from Country House Weddings, who says winter weddings are not only more romantic, but strategically smart.

Bradbourne House 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 Bradbourne House, Kent, for inspiration on Sunday 22nd February, 2026! Sister company to County Wedding Magazines, the event brings couples that are desperate for face-to-face wedding planning in touch 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.

Bailiffscourt's medieval chapel licensed for wedding ceremonies from June 26

Bailiffscourt, a striking 20th-century home built in 1926, was once the summer retreat of Lord and Lady Moyne of the Guinness family. Though its medieval-inspired architecture suggests a far older history, the property is cleverly assembled from historic components collected across England, with the 13th-century chapel as its only fully original feature. Recently restored and deconsecrated, the chapel is now licensed for intimate weddings, accommodating up to 65 guests with flexible seating options. Couples can personalise the space, then celebrate in the elegant music room or across the estate's 30 acres of English parkland. With 39 bedrooms and a dedicated weddings team ready to make dreams come true, Bailiffscourt offers a truly unique and romantic setting.

‘Tis the season to say ‘I Do’ - but don’t forget this crucial step, warns expert

December is the most popular month to get engaged, accounting for more than 11% of proposals¹. But, as peak proposal season approaches, new research from MoneySuperMarket reveals that many couples could be putting their engagement rings - and their wallets - at risk. The research* revealed that two-thirds (66%) of engaged or married couples don't have their rings covered under their home insurance and more than a quarter (27%) don't have any insurance at all. The data highlights a growing protection gap, particularly among younger generations with over a third (38%) of 18-24 year olds having no cover, compared to 24% of 25-34 year olds.

Wedding Song of 2025

The Post Barn, the award-winning Berkshire venue, is delighted to announce its Wedding Song of the Year 2025, as chosen by their 2025 wedding couples. Topping the list is "West Coast" by Lana Del Rey, capturing hearts with its dreamy, cinematic vibe. Following closely are: We Found Love – Sydnee Carter; You Make My Dreams – Alex Francis; No Judgement – Niall Horan; Perfect – Ed Sheeran. In total, The Post Barn played an impressive 9,092 songs for their wedding guests throughout the year. The average listening age of these tunes? A youthful 26, reflecting a vibrant, contemporary taste among couples celebrating their special day.

Move over midlife!

Ockenden Manor has recently introduced its new retreat for 2026 designed for women navigating and exploring the challenges midlife can bring. The aim is to provide an experience that gives women the time to ask questions and learn in a safe and friendly environment. The beautiful spa at Ockenden Manor is known for curating considered wellness experiences, and this one-night retreat will be led by Kate Organ, a menopause specialist, who'll offer a holistic approach to hormone balance, nutrition, movement and energy with a series of thoughtful and insightful workshops. If you haven't got time for the full retreat, why not book the spa's new 90-minute Balancing Ritual wellness treatments? Press the reset button and soothe the mind, body and spirit.

Social spotlight: Toni Todd Hair & Makeup

Sussex-based wedding hair and makeup specialist Toni Todd is sharing essential tips to keep your bridal hairstyle flawless on the big day. From avoiding steam near your dress to steering clear of humidity, wind, and restrictive clothing, Toni's advice helps preserve every curl and wave. She also emphasizes the importance of letting your hair cool naturally and resisting the urge to over-touch it, ensuring your look stays picture-perfect from "I do" to the last dance. With years of experience creating stunning bridal styles, Toni continues to inspire brides for 2026 and 2027. Follow her for expert guidance and book your appointment to bring your dream wedding hair to life.

2026 wedding trends that are set to dominate your feed

As wedding-related searches such as 'dream wedding' and 'wedding décor inspo' are up 10,000% year-on-year according to Pinterest trends, it's clear that couples are turning their attention to the finer details of their nuptials. To guide couples through 2026 wedding planning, Jess Levick, Assistant Buyer at Suit Direct, and Lucy Hook, Floral Lead at Bloom & Wild, reveal the key wedding trends shaping celebrations next year, covering regency romance, natural colour palettes and hyper-personalised celebrations.

Fun and feast with Mofare Events

Add an extra touch of magic to your celebration with Mofare Events. Founded earlier in 2025 following the owner's wedding, this new local lovely knows how important it is to create a day filled with laughter, great food, and lasting memories. Mofare Events' range of garden games brings guests together, breaking the ice and filling your day with fun, while the elegant charcuterie cart offers a delicious grazing experience that looks as good as it tastes! Whether you're planning a relaxed outdoor celebration or a chic evening reception, Mofare Events brings the perfect blend of entertainment and elegance. With a focus on atmosphere, enjoyment and style, the team are on hand to ensure your wedding is unforgettable one game and one graze at a time.

What are Prenup and Postnup Agreements?

Nuptial agreements have seen a rise in popularity in the UK, with high profile divorces highlighting the risks of not having a prenup or postnup in place. In addition, people now tend to get married later in life when they have accumulated more wealth and therefore have more assets to protect. Claire Porter, partner within the family team at leading Cheshire-based law firm SAS Daniels, discusses nuptial agreements for pre and post-marriage...