After researching wedding venues Sussex, these newlyweds settled on a romantic outdoor setting for their spring celebration…

Jodie and Gary first met at work. “We both work for Hastings Direct Insurance,” says Jodie. “Gary later proposed to me at the Bella Vista Italian restaurant in Hastings.”

Shopping for the dress

“My experience at wed2b’s Ashford store was great from start to finish,” says Jodie. “The staff were all really friendly and made me feel very relaxed and excited about my dress.”

Jodie chose Elowen, a fabulous off-the-shoulder, lace ballgown by Viva Bride. “It was so comfortable and made me feel amazing,” she’s say. “I’m a size 14 on the high street and I felt slim in this dress. It gave me great confidence. I also added a veil and a belt to finish the look.”

Dream wedding venues Sussex

After researching wedding venues Sussex, the couple chose Powdermills Hotel, a Grade II listed hotel in Battle, for their wedding on 18th May. “Our venue was perfect,” says Jodie. “It was so romantic and picturesque.”

The big day

"The weather on the morning of our wedding was cloudy with a few showers,” says Jodie. “However, it brightened up by the time we got married, outside by the lake house. My dear father walked me down the aisle to the song ‘A Thousand Years’ by Christina Perri. Gary and I also read personal vows to each other.”

After the ceremony, champagne and canapés were served by the swimming pool. “There was an amazing violinist who played for us and our guests,” says Jodie. “We also had a VW camper van that took us for a drive to Battle Abbey for more photos.”

The prettiest pinks

“The colour theme was lots of pinks and a company called Flutterbys did our decor,” says Jodie. “We had blossom trees as our centrepieces and lots of lovely real flowers.”

The best bits…

“The most memorable moment of the whole day was seeing my husband waiting for me at the lake house,” says Jodie.

My top tips…

“Always remember that your wedding is only for one day,” says Jodie. “Enjoy every minute and don’t put too much pressure on yourself!”

Jodie and Gary’s Dream Team 

Photographer: Emily Thompson Photography

Wedding venues Sussex: Powdermills Hotel 

Wedding dresses Ashford: wed2b

Decor: Flutterbys 

Videography: Blackrose Hastings 

Hair: Maxine Hair Salon 

Makeup: Sarah Hickling 

Entertainment: Syntherzise Events

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