A Quintessentially English Weekend with Subtle Mediterranean Soul
Becca & Harry – A Family Estate Wedding in West Sussex
Returning to Harry’s family home in West Sussex felt incredibly special — I had the honour of planning his brother’s wedding a few years earlier, so being invited back to create another unforgettable celebration for this wonderful family meant so much. With different areas of the grounds to work with, it was essential that this weekend felt entirely unique to Becca and Harry full of personal touches, style and above all, a celebration that reflected them.
They chose a beautiful sailcloth marquee overlooking the lake, framed by their charming cottage home, a truly quintessentially English setting. However, this celebration came with a subtle Mediterranean twist. We introduced faded terracotta pots, olive trees, French-style furniture and magnums of rosé inspired by their favourite beach club memories. The colour palette featured soft neutrals with pale pinks, warm beige and accents of burnt peach and weathered terracotta.
As the founder of SEWN London, Becca’s distinctive design style flowed through every detail. Her bespoke fabrics dressed each space and she created all of the wedding stationery herself — such a personal and stylish touch. The tables were layered with soft tones, beautiful textures and romantic, whimsical florals.
AN ITALIAN INSPIRED WELCOME FEAST
The celebrations kicked off with a relaxed welcome dinner for close family and friends — an Italian-inspired evening with Aperol Spritz in hand. Caper & Berry produced a live pasta station with chefs creating dishes right before guests’ eyes, accompanied by rustic breads, oils, and generous charcuterie boards for that family-style feel.
To transform the party barn, we added large olive trees, Sicilian lemons and potted herbs evoking the charm of a late-summer garden celebration. All linens including perfectly striped napkins were custom made by SEWN London. The moment of the night? A song written by the groom’s father — full of laughter, joy and many happy tears.
THE WEDDING DAY – ENGLISH COUNTRYSIDE ROMANCE WITH MEDITERRANEAN FLAIR
The following morning, our team and suppliers arrived early to begin the final set-up for the big day. The ceremony took place outdoors beneath a stretch tent overlooking the lake, with the dining and party space waiting in the distance. We designed a soft curved aisle lined with dark wood chairs, terracotta vessels, olive trees and seasonal blooms — leading to a breathtaking floral moment with authentic olive urns as the focal point.
After the vows, LDN Roaming Band guided guests down to the sunken garden for Champagne, cocktails and delicious canapés. Their interactive sets kept spirits high with guests singing along and dancing between sips.
Two pop-up bars and homemade ice cream lovingly made by Becca’s mum with bespoke pots to match the linens were a huge hit. House of Furn soft furnishings, paired with SEWN London cushions, created elegant, relaxed seating pockets around the lake.
When it was time to dine, guests made their way around the water — some even opting for a rowing boat entrance arriving at a dramatic curved walkway dressed in striking floral arrangements by Mad Lilies. It was spectacular and truly set the tone for what was to come.
A SHOW-STOPPING DINNER & PARTY TO REMEMBER
As dinner began, the showband launched into the most electric high-energy set — the marquee was absolutely alive. It’s hard to describe the atmosphere… the room was shaking with energy, voices were raised, napkins were in the air, and the couple were surrounded by pure joy.
Guests enjoyed a Mediterranean-inspired menu:
Starter — Aged Serrano Ham, Compressed Cantaloupe Melon, Burrata, Crispy Parmesan, Pickled Shallot & Basil
Main — Chicken Caesar with Triple-Cooked Chips, Isle of Wight Black Garlic Purée, Sourdough, Truffle Sauce & Twineham Grange
Dessert — A giant pavlova, ceremonially cut before serving (and devoured with delight)
The party continued with a custom-designed stage by Luminaire Events. A key feature in a sailcloth marquee that we intentionally elevated. French shutters framed the stage during the day to complement the aesthetic; by evening they opened to reveal epic party lighting and a cascade of disco balls — the perfect reveal for the late-night transformation.
With confetti cannons, cold sparks, and a pizza truck serving slices from an authentic 1988 Piaggio Ape, the night unfolded into a celebration no one wanted to end.
A SHOW-STOPPING DINNER & PARTY TO REMEMBER
Working with Becca and Harry was a joy. They brought creativity, intention and a thoughtful focus on guest experience every step of the way. We shared so many laughs throughout the planning journey, and when the weekend came to an end, I was truly sad to say goodbye.
A major highlight? The bespoke curved floral walkway built by Sail & Peg and designed with Mad Lilies — a breathtaking focal point that perfectly framed the lakeside and created that unforgettable “wow moment” as guests arrived.
This wedding was everything summer in the English countryside should be, relaxed yet elevated, stylish yet soulful, and overflowing with love, laughter and dance-floor magic.
Becca & Harry — thank you for welcoming me back into your family. It was an honour to create this incredible weekend with you.
Image Credits - Jess Lathan Photography