Your Sussex Wedding - Feb/Mar 2019 (Issue 77)

5 MINUTES WITH… Lily Skitt, owner of fab new company, Lovelily Lending. Tell us about Lovelily Lending We offer an emporium of gorgeous hireable wedding props and accessories for boho brides looking for that extra something to make their big day really stand out. What made you go into business for yourself? I loved planning my own wedding. I previously worked in interiors PR, so it gave me a chance to refer back to my love for all things styling. I knew I wanted to be able to share my ideas and props that I’d accumulated along the way with other brides-to-be. What do you love about working with brides and grooms? The opportunity to be such an important part of the big day, and the excitement of knowing that every wedding is different. There’s so much to think about when planning a wedding, so it’s great to know that we can make the organisation that little bit less stressful. What's the must-have styling trend at weddings this year? More is more! I always advise brides not to stick to tradition and make sure they plan their dream wedding, not anymore else's. You don’t need to stick to a palette or a theme; the best weddings I’ve seen have been those that clash a little. What makes your business different? As a small (new!) business, I’m able to ensure that my brides and grooms come first and dedicate my time to help them source props and accessories that are unique to their big day. If I haven’t already got it in my emporium of wonderful wedding hireables, then I’ll be more than happy to add to my collection! You can see more of the props available to hire at @lovelilylending. Plus check out Lily’s own real wedding feature on page 51. More band for your buck Nothing makes your wedding celebration stick in your guests’ memories like a dancefloor filled with friends old and new and some big tunes. We get the lowdown from Mark Seacombe, owner of Brighton based Uptown Music, on how to achieve just that. Mark says: “We’ve spent the last 20 years making music. The events have been varied, but the lessons have been simple.” ❤ Consider venue constraints. When finding your perfect venue, ask about curfews and sound limiters. Bands will play as loudly and as late as they’re allowed! ❤ Get the bar as close as possible to the dancefloor. By making sure the drinks are in the same room as the music, you won't lose dancers to the bar and will even lure the more reluctant to throw some shapes. ❤ Keep the dancefloor as compact as possible. It’s preferable that the dancefloor looks full rather than feels empty. ❤ Don’t have the live band playing too early. Give your guests time to mingle, grab a drink and relax after the meal. No one wants to dance on a full stomach! ❤ Include sound checks and set-up time in your planning. A professional band will take around 45-60 minutes to set up. An early setup could incur costs. Perhaps factor in the cake cutting at the other end of the space to draw attention away from the band’s arrival. Expect a soundcheck. They’ll want to be at their best for you! ❤ Consider the first dance carefully. Talk to the band about whether the track is best pre-recorded or live. ❤ Use the band’s experience. Trust them to put your setlist in the best possible order to draw your guests to the dancefloor and keep them there. Find out more about Uptown Music at uptownmusic.co.uk GET READY FOR WEDFEST! Sussex Wedfest returns to the whimsical Two Woods estate on 7th April. If you’re looking for wedding day inspiration, then this surely is the place to be! Whether you’re planning a festival, barn or more traditional wedding, a fantastic selection of expert suppliers will be on hand to help create your vision. From photographers to tipis and florists to wedding dresses, you’ll find everything you need to bring your dream day to life. Plus, there’ll be a main stage with some great entertainment, bars and plenty of tasty food to sink your teeth into. Tickets available now at sussexwedfest.co.uk Bubbly Brighton The Grand Brighton is running a fabulous offer to receive a free case of champagne when booking your 2019 wedding. All you have to do is book and contract your wedding at this wonderful and iconic venue by 28th February with a minimum value of £5,000, and voila! Your bubbly will be sent to your chosen address. Terms and conditions apply. Check out grandbrighton.co.uk marcelgphotography.com 10