Your Sussex Wedding - Feb/Mar 2020 (Issue 83)

DRAKES HOTEL 01273 696 934 | drakesofbrighton.com Built in the late Georgian period by Amon Wilds, Drakes Hotel was originally two town houses designed to complement the fine Regency residences of the area. The property remained as a private residence until the 1970s when it was purchased by Mr and Mrs Simmonds and saw it’s first incarnation as a hotel. The current owners took over in 2002, by which time the building had become sadly dilapidated and undertook extensive renovations to bring the stunning boutique Drakes Hotel to life as you see it today. The jewel in Drakes’ crown for any bride and groom is the super king-size bridal room, which features a seven-foot wide handmade bed dressed in the finest Egyptian linens and velvet throw, as well as a chaise lounge, monsoon wet room and a magnificent freestanding bath set in front of the triple aspect, floor-to-celling windows. Through the brass telescope, couples can observe the picturesque views of the fabulous Brighton Palace Pier. SPACE TO CELEBRATE The Restaurant at Drakes, where head chef Andy Vitez contines to achieve glowing accolades. Set with crisp white table linen, the shuttered windows and low-key lighting create a feel of relaxed glamour. The package includes everything from canapés and champagne reception to a full breakfast the following day (40 ceremony, 65 reception guests). SOUTHEND BARNS 01243 641 247 | southendbarns.co.uk Set on a working farm in the beautiful West Sussex countryside, Southend Barns has been lovingly restored. Surrounded by stunning landscaped gardens and peaceful courtyards, it offers a magical setting for your wedding celebrations. The courtyard lies at the heart of the venue with its luscious lawn, well-kept pots and Cornish slate patio – a lovely spot for drinks and mingling. As evening falls, the gardens are romantically lit to show off the fantastic flint and log walls of the barns. The in-house catering team, Roots, have launched some fun informative menu-tasting evenings when you can sample the canapés and main menu options. There’s also live music and plenty of wedding advice from suppliers. SPACE TO CELEBRATE ❤ The Dairy Barn boasts a wonderful 22-metre aisle, exposed beams and benches made of sweet chestnut. It can also be used after the “I dos” for drinks or an entertainment room for children (120 guests). ❤ The Secret Garden is a hidden gem. Taking inspiration from the Dutch term gezellig, the garden is a celebration of togetherness, comfort and enjoyment and is an idyllic spot for your vows. ❤ The Threshing Barn radiates rustic charm and offers plenty of space for dancing and entertaining, with vast windows across both sides (120 dining, 200 evening). ❤ The Collecting Yard is where guests can gather on sumptuous sofas around firepits to enjoy the perfect end to a perfect day. ❤ The Milking Parlour can be used as the groom’s quarters or for the bride tribe’s preparations. Couples can also use the suite for privacy during the day or to stay the night should you wish. marcelgphotography.com helencawte.com 30