Planning an outdoor event in the beautiful scenery of Sussex offers the chance to create an unforgettable experience for your guests. From vivid, rolling countryside to charming estates, Sussex provides a stunning backdrop for all types of celebrations. However, outdoor events also come with unique challenges, so a thorough plan is essential to creating a memorable event.
Read on to be guided through the essentials of organising a successful outdoor event in Sussex, from choosing the perfect venue to styling the space in line with your vision.
Invitations
Your invitations are your guests’ first impression of your event, so they will set the tone for your outdoor event as well as providing guests with essential information. Whether you opt for printed or digital invitations, ensure each invitation is well presented and reflects the theme and style of your event.
Include key details such as the date, time, venue address, dress code, and RSVP instructions. For outdoor events in Sussex, it’s wise to also mention any relevant weather considerations, especially if parts of the event take place on grass or in a marquee. Sending invitations well in advance allows guests time to prepare; a gentle follow up at a time closer to the event can help to confirm final attendance numbers.
Choose a Venue
Given the unpredictable weather but also the stunning scenery of the Sussex countryside, selecting the right venue for your event is paramount. When it comes to hosting an event outdoors, look to choose a venue that provides comfort and flexibility, while also taking advantage of the outstanding beauty of the area.
A popular outdoor venue choice in Sussex is a historic manor house or country estate. Venues such as Brickwall House or Blackstock Country Estate exude elegance and charm and have beautiful grounds which are especially stunning in summer with their bright green foliage and in autumn when the leaves turn a golden brown, as well as into the evening as the sky lights up with pinks and oranges as the sun sets.
Weather and Marquees
When planning an outdoor event, weather is always a concern. From freezing cold winds to pouring rain, good weather can never be guaranteed. Unless you have an indoor venue available as a contingency plan, a marquee is an excellent workaround for poor weather, especially for events taking place in the autumn and winter months. If you are nervous about the weather negatively impacting your outdoor event, looking into marquee hire in Sussex can efficiently solve for your concerns around wind, rain, and cold weather.
Marquees are a unique, stunning choice for outdoor celebrations. A large, weatherproof marquee with large clear panels allows you to bring the stunning Sussex scenery into your warm, cosy, indoor space. Marquees can be completely customised to your liking with everything from luxurious seating areas to fully equipped bars and dining spaces. In winter, a marquee can be heated to create a comfortable and inviting environment. You can enhance the outdoor-in experience with fairy lights and a fire pit, enhancing the natural beauty of your surroundings while remaining sheltered from the elements.
Styling
Once you’ve selected your venue, it’s time to choose the theme and style of your event. Event styling truly sets the tone for the entire experience and helps guide decisions on decorations, colour schemes, and even the dress code. Whether you’re aiming for a rustic countryside feel, a chic coastal vibe, or a vibrant festival atmosphere, your chosen theme should reflect the purpose of the event and resonate with your guests. Consider how elements like lighting, floral arrangements, signage, and table settings can all work together to bring your vision to life. A cohesive style not only enhances the visual appeal of your outdoor event but also creates a vibrant and memorable experience.