Your Sussex Wedding - Page number 63 - June/July 2021 (Issue 91)

She explains, “Think marquees with clear roofs and sides that open to let the air in; fire bowls and pits with festoon lighting for those lengthening evenings; pallet tables and straw bales for outdoor seating with rustic furniture adorning indoor spaces, which all together embrace the local countryside as an integral part of the venues. I love to complement the rustic outdoor vibe with wooden boards serving platters of canapés, salads, meats, homemade quiches, tarts and pies all adorned with edible flowers.” Not only can you link your wedding-day dining experience to the overall theme of the day, but Susan finds she is receiving a growing number of requests to link in the colour palette too. She tells us, “Desserts offer a great opportunity to do this. For example, one interesting twist on a pink theme is a deconstructed cheesecake of organic mascarpone cheese, organic double cream, shortbread crumb base, highlighted with accents of pinks and reds with fresh and freeze-dried strawberries, dusky pink macarons, homemade fudge and a yummy caramel sauce.” So, having been spoiled rotten with mouthwatering dining options, what equally delicious delights will your guests be drinking in 2021 and 22? Marie tells us, “Non-alcoholic spirits are a growing trend, ranging from zero-alcohol gins to malt spirits, wines and beers. So why not enjoy a guilt-free G&T or cocktail? Warner Edwards are making two botanic garden spirits in juniper double dry and pink berry, while Caleno are making a dark and spicy zero per cent spirit as well as a light citrus version. Even Gordon’s are joining the alcohol-free revolution. Definitely something to investigate.” Another trend for this summer we’re told will be vermouth. Marie explains, “Lower in alcohol than a spirit these fortified wines offer a selection of flavours from deep fruity red to light and dry, or rosé. Flavoured with herbs and botanicals, this tipple can be enjoyed over ice, with tonic or added to a cocktail. Most Brits know it as Martini although other variants are available from Lillet to Punt e Mes, and a locally produced one by In the Loop Drinks of Sussex.” CONTACT OUR EXPERTS Fab Food For You , https://fabfoodforyou.co.uk Quinn Events , www.quinnevents.co.uk Sloe Drinks Co Mobile Bar Service , www.sloedrinks.co.uk “Seek out your local small brewery, vineyard or gin distillery. Enjoy a visit to a local tap room such as Three Legs Brewery in Brede, East Sussex or a day out at a local vineyard such as Tinkerage Wine.” – Marie Ashton, Sloe Drinks Co Mobile Bar Service “Retro trike Betty serves ice cream with locally-picked fresh berries and homemade accompaniments, enhanced by her own wooden ladder filled with shots to be poured over your frozen treat.” – Jacquie Keeley, Fab Food For You fabfoodforyou.co.uk fabfoodforyou.co.uk fabfoodforyou.co.uk www.quin nevents.co.uk www.qui nnevents.co.uk www.sloe drinks.co.uk CATERING 63