A guide to getting married in East Sussex

East Sussex, with its stunning coastlines, rolling countryside, and rich historical sites, offers a picturesque setting for couples looking to tie the knot. Whether you're dreaming of a seaside ceremony, a countryside celebration, or a historic manor wedding, East Sussex has a diverse range of options that can cater to your vision. With its charming towns and serene landscapes, getting married in East Sussex provides a unique blend of romance and elegance that’s hard to beat.

The best wedding venues in East Sussex

East Sussex boasts some of the most beautiful and varied wedding venues in the UK, ranging from historic castles to contemporary barns. Here are five of the best wedding venues that East Sussex has to offer:

Buxted Park Hotel: This stunning Palladian mansion offers a breathtaking backdrop for your wedding day. With its elegant interiors, beautiful gardens, and versatile spaces, Buxted Park is perfect for both grand celebrations and intimate gatherings.

Pelham House: Located in the heart of Lewes, this beautiful 16th-century town house combines historical charm with modern luxury. The venue's landscaped gardens and elegant rooms make it a perfect spot for a classic English wedding.

Upwaltham Barns: A quintessentially English venue, Upwaltham Barns offers a rustic yet chic setting. Nestled in the South Downs, the barns provide a warm and welcoming atmosphere, ideal for a countryside wedding.

Hilton Brighton Metropole: For a coastal wedding, the Hilton Brighton Metropole offers a blend of Victorian charm and contemporary style. With its prime seafront location, it's perfect for couples looking to incorporate Brighton’s vibrant energy into their special day.

Herstmonceux Castle: This magnificent 15th-century moated castle provides a fairytale setting for your wedding. The stunning gardens, historic interiors, and unique medieval architecture make Herstmonceux Castle a truly enchanting venue.

Getting a wedding dress in East Sussex

Finding the perfect wedding dress is one of the most exciting parts of wedding planning. East Sussex is home to a number of bridal boutiques and designers who can help you find or create the dress of your dreams. Here are five top places to consider:

Mode Bridal: Located in Hove, Mode Bridal offers a curated collection of designer dresses from around the world. Known for its personalized service and attention to detail, this boutique ensures that every bride finds her perfect gown.

Pantiles Bride: Based in Tunbridge Wells, Pantiles Bride specializes in luxury bridalwear with a wide range of exclusive designer gowns. The boutique is renowned for its elegant collection and exceptional customer service.

Isabella Grace Bridal: Also located in Tunbridge Wells, Isabella Grace Bridal offers a luxurious shopping experience in a beautiful Georgian townhouse. Their extensive collection features both contemporary and classic styles, ensuring something for every bride.

Ellie Sanderson Bridal Boutique: With its reputation for exquisite bridal fashion, Ellie Sanderson in Brighton offers a stunning range of designer dresses. Brides can expect a tailored experience with a focus on quality and style.

Laura May Bridal: Situated in Brighton, Laura May Bridal provides a relaxed and intimate setting for brides to find their dream dress. The boutique is known for its unique collection of dresses and personalized, friendly service.

The best wedding catering companies in East Sussex

Food is a vital part of any wedding celebration, and East Sussex offers an array of catering companies that can create a delicious and memorable menu for your special day. Here are five of the best:

Michelham Caterers: Specializing in bespoke wedding catering, Michelham Caterers in Hailsham are known for their creative and personalized menus. Whether you're looking for a formal sit-down meal or a relaxed buffet, they can cater to your specific tastes.

7Square Meals: Based in Brighton, 7Square Meals offers innovative and seasonal menus that focus on locally sourced ingredients. Their commitment to quality and flavor makes them a popular choice for weddings in the area.

Mangetout Catering: Mangetout Catering in Eastbourne is known for their creative and beautifully presented dishes. Their team works closely with couples to design a menu that reflects their style and preferences.

The Trevor Arms: This historic pub in Glynde offers exceptional catering services, combining traditional British cuisine with modern twists. Their commitment to using fresh, local ingredients ensures a delightful culinary experience for your wedding guests.

Four Gables Food Academy: Located near East Grinstead, Four Gables Food Academy is celebrated for their bespoke catering services. Their menus are tailored to each couple, ensuring a unique and flavorful experience on your big day.

Getting a wedding cake in East Sussex

The wedding cake is a central part of your celebration, and East Sussex is home to some exceptional cake designers and bakers. Here are five highly recommended shops for your wedding cake needs:

Buttercup Cakes: Based in Brighton, Buttercup Cakes specializes in beautifully crafted cakes that taste as good as they look. Known for their attention to detail and creative designs, they offer a wide range of flavors and styles to suit any wedding theme.

Hepburns Food: Located in Lewes, Hepburns Food offers artisanal cakes with a focus on natural ingredients and elegant designs. Their bespoke service ensures that every cake is a unique creation tailored to your preferences.

Sussex Wedding Cakes: As the name suggests, Sussex Wedding Cakes in Eastbourne specializes in creating stunning wedding cakes. Their experienced team works closely with couples to design a cake that perfectly complements their wedding day.

Cake Tales: Based in Hastings, Cake Tales is known for their whimsical and personalized cake designs. Whether you're looking for something traditional or entirely unique, they can create a cake that tells your love story in sugar and icing.

Jennifer's Cakery: Located in Rye, Jennifer's Cakery offers custom cakes that are both beautiful and delicious. Their commitment to quality ingredients and craftsmanship ensures a wedding cake that will be remembered for years to come.

The best hotels in East Sussex

After the celebrations, it's important to have a luxurious place to rest. East Sussex offers a variety of high-end hotels that provide both comfort and style. Here are five of the best:

The Grand Brighton: This iconic seafront hotel offers timeless elegance and stunning views of the Brighton coastline. The Grand Brighton is perfect for newlyweds seeking luxury and relaxation with a touch of Victorian charm.

Ashdown Park Hotel & Country Club: Nestled in the heart of the Ashdown Forest, this grand country house hotel offers a serene and romantic retreat. With its luxurious rooms, beautiful grounds, and excellent spa facilities, it’s an ideal place to unwind after your big day.

The Curzon House: Located in the picturesque village of Alfriston, The Curzon House combines historical charm with modern amenities. The boutique hotel’s intimate setting makes it a perfect choice for couples seeking a more private and personalized experience.

The Hydro Hotel: Overlooking the English Channel, The Hydro Hotel in Eastbourne offers classic elegance and top-notch service. Its beautiful gardens and coastal views make it a favorite for couples looking to extend their wedding celebration into a relaxing honeymoon.

Hotel du Vin Brighton: This chic and stylish hotel is located in the heart of Brighton’s Lanes, offering a perfect blend of luxury and urban cool. Hotel du Vin Brighton is known for its sophisticated atmosphere, fine dining, and beautifully appointed rooms.

East Sussex is a treasure trove of wedding possibilities, offering everything from stunning venues and exquisite dresses to top-notch catering and luxurious hotels. Whether you're planning a grand celebration or an intimate gathering, this charming county has everything you need to make your wedding day truly unforgettable.