Your Sussex Wedding - October/November 2019 (Issue 81)

REAL WEDDINGS 43  suspended from the beams and an archway over the stairs. The big-day bake was layered with a small tier between two wider ones so it gave the appearance of defying gravity (cue for a song!) and was decorated with pastel sugar flowers. Melissa recalls: “We had a wonderful journey with Emily from Emily’s Mixing Bowl; from a beautiful box of samples through to delivery on the day, we were so pleased.” The cake was displayed on another of the couple’s creations: a dressing table adorned in flowers, butterflies and wire lights. The reception space showcased an array of vintage gorgeousness created by the newlyweds, including some old barrels used to full effect as guest books and old apple crates stacked and used as a memory display. Melissa says: “It was nice seeing all of our hard work come together.” LOVE AND CARRIAGE Melissa and Paul both had grand ideas on how to arrive at their nuptials in style. The bride says: “I really loved the Morris Minor we hired from Paladins Cars. They were so accommodating and lovely to work with. On the day, my dress was so big that my dad had to sit in the front seat! Our driver, Keith, was happy to take us on a little detour for photos on the way to the reception and even provided us with some bubbly. I can still remember feeling the wind in my hair on the journey. It was perfect.” Paul arrived in the best man’s Range Rover, and the bridesmaids were transported in a WWII Willies Jeep belonging to a colleague of Melissa’s. “They loved it but were slightly windswept,” she laughs. FOOD FOR THOUGHT The mouthwatering menu of canapés included mini fish and chips, beef Yorkshire puddings, mini beetroot, goat’s cheese tarts and mini Mediterranean skewers. The wedding breakfast was a traditional afternoon tea. Melissa says, “We had all of the usual – scones with jam and clotted cream, inspired by my home in Cornwall, and sandwiches, all served on vintage crockery.” In the evening, guests were served hearty barbecue fare, from burgers and sausages to chicken and vegetarian paella. As an extra special treat the newlyweds were greeted by piña coladas in pineapple halves at the end of their Star Wars guard of honour as a tribute to their first date. TIME TO CELEBRATE A photo booth was set up outside with disposable cameras and stacks of props, which was a great hit with guests. Paul made several giant garden games, including noughts and crosses, draughts and dominoes. He recalls: “We borrowed a limbo, which we set up on the lawn, and an impromptu competition broke out!” There was also musical entertainment provided by Paul’s nephews on piano, guitar, cello, violin and vocals. “Guests absolutely loved the boys playing,” Paul says. What a talented family! “Don’t do marquees yourself. We found out the hard way that the weather doesn’t care that it’s your big day!”