Southend Barns, Chichester – Inspirational Wedding Ideas: A Rustic Venue with a Modern Twist

On a gorgeous day at the very end of April, Geoffrey and I were joined by an amazing team of vendors at Southend Barns, in Chichester, to provide wedding inspiration for brides looking for how to create a modern look within a rustic setting – the results are fabulous! At the beginning of this venture, I spent time chatting with other wedding suppliers who might share my vision.  One of the first couple of people I spoke to was Gemma and Katy at Distinctly Styled.  Having seen them in action at a wedding in Chichester, I knew that these girls could deliver something spectacular and it was their suggestion that we take a look at Southend Barns…and I’m so glad we did!  It really is a truly gorgeous location!  The space is both dramatic and versatile without being overwhelming and the team onsite are friendly and helpful…Oh, and the the onsite caterers, Field and Fork, make seriously yummy canapes! Having spent a great deal of time chatting with Distinctly Styled about the vision for the day, I still found myself stunned to find that they had perfectly created the look I had in mind – clean and contemporary but still pretty!   They took the ideas in my head and transformed them into something beautiful and tangible – seriously, every Bride and Groom needs to chat with these girls!!   I feel that Brides and Grooms are often lead down the vintage route when they book weddings at barns and in other rustic locations and I really liked the idea of showcasing a more modern style.  We settled on clean whites and fresh greens to enhance the natural environment around us and accented the styling with simple punches of colour. Alongside the styling of the venue, we were joined by hair stylist, Kelly (Bridal-Beau Hair) and make up artist, Sarah (sarahkeenan.co.uk) who are both experts in their field.  I can’t stress enough the important of having a beauty team that you trust implicitly; by finding someone well in advance of your day you can ensure that there is time to start a beauty regime, grow your hair (if necessary) and can rest knowing that you’ve got it sorted!  If you’re looking for a recommendation, then here it is!  These girls pay great attention to their clients, they take into account each individuals features and are happy to provide advice on styling to compliment your day. (Yup – that group above is the team!  Thank you all for everything!!) Finally, we were joined by Matt, from Teardrop Films, who not only provide cheeky banter and put up with my constant chatter but was on hand to create a fabulous little film for Southend Barns (Click here to take a peek!) whilst also working on an exciting project for me….more about that another time! Hugest thanks have to go to Danni and Gareth who were the winners of our competition to win a place as our featured Bride and Groom for this shoot.  Whilst not yet married, this gorgeous couple were enthusiastic, patient and great fun…and more importantly, they did a great job of ACTING like they were just married! Thank you, both, so much for all your time and for trusting us so completely – you were a dream! My final thanks going to the following suppliers that all contributed so generously to the session – it wouldn’t have been possible without you. Creatiques Bridal Boutique – 02392 826622 – For the loan of the gorgeous gown! Place Settings – 01903 743 333 – For all crockery, cutlery, glassware and linen Tangerine Dreams Creative – Stationary Amber Rose Emporium – 01243 870 612 – Florist Tinwood – 01243 537 372 – Supplier of Champagne & Ice Buckets Field & Fork – 01243 784 701 – Caterer Chatter cakes – 07817 608 995 – Wedding Cake Supplier (and maker of DELICIOUS chocolate cupcakes! If you like what you see – please do leave us a comment on the blog or help spread the word of this venue, and these talented people, by sharing the blog on social media!   Thank you!