Your Sussex Wedding - February / March 2021 (Issue 89)

AWARD-WINNING DINING Set in the historical Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens estate near Horsham, Restaurant Interlude has recently won an AA Rosette award. This follows the achievement in 2019 of a first Michelin Star for executive chef Jean Delport and his team. The award inspector commented that the kitchen at Interlude takes its cue from the seasons, going on to say, “It makes full use of pickings from its own gardens, as well as foraging and tapping into the local food network for top-notch Sussex produce. Expect bright, lively flavours in epic-length tasting format, from beef tartare smoked with gorse flowers, to poached plaice with parsley puree and knotweed vinegar, or 28-day aged Middlewhite pork with wild garlic capers.” Book online at www.restaurant-interlude.co.uk/reservations fo r your chance to sample the showstopping fare that could make up your wedding breakfast if you choose to say “I do” at Leonardslee. RAINBOW DISCOUNT It’s heartwarming to know that in times of crisis everyone in the healthcare community has pulled together and worked tirelessly to help those in need, taking care of us all at great personal risk and sacrifice. As a token of their gratitude the team at Southdowns Manor would like to get involved by giving something back to these wonderful people, and are offering all NHS and emergency service workers 10 per cent off of their wedding package costs. The venue’s Cresta Jerrard told us, “We simply cannot thank them all enough for everything they’re doing for us right now. So, we hope to be able to make their wedding dreams come true and hope this gesture goes some way to seeing that happen.” To find out more about your eligibility for this offer, simply get in touch on 01730 763 800 or email enquiries@southdownsmanor.co.uk FIVE MINUTES WITH… This issue we catch up with Susan Quinn of Quinn’s Events, wedding coordinator and exclusive wedding caterer for the beautiful Slindon House in Arundel. Please tell us a little about yourself and what you do. I began my culinary career by completing my apprenticeship as a commis chef at The Berkley Hotel in London. I specialised as a pastry chef in some of London’s top establishments including the renowned Groucho Club. Following a career break to raise my two young boys, I moved to West Sussex with my family. Keen to establish new culinary roots there, I launched Quinn’s Catering. While I’ve catered for many different events it’s with wedding catering that I’ve really been able to develop an enviable reputation. We can’t stop thinking about how incredible the food from last issue’s Classically Bohemian shoot looked. Can you tell us more about the dishes you created? My aim was to demonstrate the range of cuisine I offer by preparing dishes that looked delicious on the plate and complemented the wonderful colours of the beautiful rooms at Slindon House. I chose a vivid salmon tartare with dill beetroot and avocado as a starter, a spiced cannon of lamb with parmentier potatoes, carrot puree, chargrilled tender stems and courgettes and a mint salsa verde for main course and finished off with a wonderful dark rich chocolate mousse, dark chocolate truffle, vanilla home-made ice cream and freeze-dried strawberries. I also provided a European/Asian fusion alternative starter of burrata with peaches and plums and a tomato and basil reduction, Asian-infused duck breast, sweet potato fondant, shredded greens and mange tout with a honey glaze for the main course and a raspberry frangipane tart, raspberry sorbet, fudge and popping candy to complete the creation. Where possible I always strive to use locally sourced and organic ingredients. What can couples expect from their wedding day at Slindon House? Slindon House, set in the South Downs, is a beautiful historical building with extensive grounds and far-reaching views to the sea beyond. As the venue coordinator and sole in-house caterer, I help to bring couples’ wedding dreams to life. You can choose to host your reception inside the House, or perhaps set up a marquee among the grounds. Civil ceremonies can be held in a number of rooms and there’s a beautiful Victorian conservatory that’s perfect for arrival drinks and canapes. Slindon House is an exclusive-use venue, so you’ll have plenty of time the day before to dress it to your taste. You’ll also have the flexibility to tailor your menu through Quinn Events and can even choose to provide your own bubbly and alcohol. We’ll be on hand if you need any advice or guidance. For further information, head over to www.slindonhouse.co.uk an d www.quinnevents.co.uk www.love heartphotography.com www.love heartphotography.com Two-time champs Venue stylist To Have & To Hire Events has been awarded Best Venue Stylist in the South East for the second year running in The 2021 Wedding Industry Awards. Owner Sara Ellis says, “We’re overjoyed to have held on to the title for a second year. This year has been incredibly difficult for the industry and to receive this accolade is fantastic.” So, if you’re looking for a venue stylist you may struggle to find better than a double award-winner! Visit www.tohaveandtohireweddings.com to find out more. 10