Real Life Wedding

Planning Your West Sussex Wedding: A Comprehensive Guide

Congratulations on choosing Upwaltham Barns as your wedding venue! With our idyllic countryside setting and unique charm, your special day will be unforgettable.

Now that you’ve secured your perfect venue, let’s guide you through the next steps to plan your dream West Sussex wedding. This comprehensive guide covers everything from legalities to finding the best suppliers, all tailored to make your journey seamless and stress-free.

1. Understanding the Legalities

Before diving into the fun aspects of wedding planning, ensuring your marriage is legally binding is essential. Here are the steps to follow:

 

Giving Notice

You and your partner must attend an appointment at your local register office to give notice of your marriage. This must be done at least 29 days before your wedding date and can be done up to one year in advance. During the appointment, you will declare:

• Who you intend to marry or form a civil partnership with

• Where the ceremony will take place

• That you are legally free to get married or form a civil partnership

 

Required Documents

Ensure you have valid photo identification (passport or driving license) and proof of address. If you live in West Sussex, you can contact a Chichester, Crawley, Horsham, or Worthing registration office. If you and your partner live in different districts, you will need to visit separate registration offices.

 

Booking Your Registrar

If you’re having a civil ceremony in the East Barn or outdoors at Upwaltham Barns, a West Sussex Registration Service registrar will officiate. Contact them early to secure your preferred time. Book your registrar by filling out a form on the West Sussex County Council website. Your registrar will ensure the legalities are correct and perform a personal ceremony, which you can customise with additional vows, non-religious readings, and music.

 

Celebrant Services

If you are already legally married but want a bespoke and deeply personal ceremony, consider hiring a celebrant. They can craft a service that reflects your story and love, creating an unforgettable moment for you and your guests.

 

Wild Wedding Option

For couples seeking a more relaxed and nature-inspired celebration, our wild wedding option is perfect. Exchange vows in the beautiful outdoor surroundings of our gorgeous valley, providing a stunning backdrop for your special day.

2. Choosing Your Dream Wedding Suppliers

West Sussex is home to many talented wedding suppliers, many of whom are part of the local rural community. Booking your preferred suppliers early is crucial to ensure availability on your wedding day. Here are some key categories to consider:

• Florists: Work with skilled local florists to create stunning arrangements that enhance the venue’s natural beauty. Ask if they can incorporate seasonal flowers for a more sustainable option.

• Photographers: Choose a photographer to capture your day’s most magical moments. It’s a great idea to select someone familiar with Upwaltham Barns, as they will know the best spots for perfect shots. Always meet with your photographer in advance—some even offer engagement shoots—to ensure you feel relaxed in their company on the day. Consider their style—whether formal, reportage, or artistic—to ensure it aligns with your vision.

• Hair and Makeup Artists: Trusted professionals will help you and your bridal party look your absolute best.

• Decoration & prop hire: Consider hiring a team to style the barns with bespoke decorations and enhancements. Ensure they have the necessary equipment and insurance for working at heights in the barns if you are planning large installations such as drapes, specialist lighting or decorative ceiling installations.

• Music & Entertainment: From acoustic singers to live bands and DJs, the right entertainment will keep the celebration lively. A music agency is often a good place to start, as they will have a wide variety of music options on their books and can guide you through all your options.

• Explore our recommended wedding suppliers.

3. Personalising Your Day

Every couple’s wedding is unique, and Upwaltham Barns offers endless opportunities to add personal touches:

• Decorations: From fairy lights to rustic table settings, think about details that reflect your personality. You can tie everything in with a colour scheme or time of year; there are so many ways to make Upwaltham Barns feel like ‘you’. Starting with a Pinterest board to collate your style and thoughts is always a good idea. Entertainment: Entertainment can enhance the atmosphere throughout your wedding day. Consider live music during your ceremony, such as an acoustic duo or a string quartet, to add a touch of elegance. For the drinks reception in the courtyard, light background music or a jazz trio can create a relaxed vibe, while a magician could keep guests entertained and laughing. For the evening reception, a live band or DJ will ensure the dance floor stays full. Choose entertainment that reflects your style and keeps the celebration lively from start to finish.

• Wedding Favours: Locally inspired favours, such as handmade Sussex honey jars, artisan chocolates, or small potted plants, make thoughtful keepsakes for your guests and support small local companies.

Planning your West Sussex wedding should be a joyful and exciting experience. By following this guide to get started and leaning on the support of our team at Upwaltham Barns, you’re set for a truly magical day.