The Ravenswood relaunches with a perfect blend of suppliers

So, we heard that an old friend has just became a partner in a country venue and she asked us to come up and take a look.  When we arrived we were gobsmacked at the sheer scale and possibilities that this place had to offer and realised that, with Sam’s enthusiasm and experience as a  Wedding Photographer, this was going to be one to look out for.

Later on we heard that Empirical were to hold  a wedding fayre at The Ravenswood and they invited us along to exhibit – of course we said yes!

The thing about The Ravenswood is that it gives very little away as you approach it.  The display of vehicles from a very old vintage Rolls Royce to the bang up to date Aston Martin and the quirky camper reflected the depth of style attainable here.   Yes it’s large and yes it obviously has history but does that really cut it in the, er, cut-throat world of the wedding venue?  From our previous meeting we knew that it had more to offer but weren’t ready for what lay behind those very old oak panelled doors.

You see the thing about this venue is the way it presents itself.  Walk through the door and you get the feeling of history, of parties, of revelry and maybe even a little tragedy.  Move through to the Princess Beatrice Suite and everything starts to become clear. 

Empirical had teamed up with Mulberry Events to set the room up in magnificent style, no mean feat as the huge ceilings must be 30 to 40 feet high.   A permanent bar is nestled neatly in amongst the wonderful oak panelling and you get a feeling of space, style and magic – without losing that all important historic vibe.   

Suppliers had gathered from all sorts of locations to help Sam and her team re-launch this great venue and to advise would be Brides and Grooms on the latest cakery, fashion, food and flowers to name a few.  Empirical had thoughtfully laid the exhibitors out so that the couples could float through, free glass of prosecco in hand, without missing anything.

The room is encased in large glass doors and windows bringing in tons  of light and opening onto the glorious patio area which hinted at the treat that was to come. 

For nestling neatly amongst the earthy, mature gardens and next to the ornamental fountain and giant chair (see pics for explanation) is an outdoor chapel that most other venues could only dream of!  Set out in wedding style with the obligatory chair covers and giant ‘LOVE’ letters and masses of florals,  the chapel was perfect.

The gardens, oh the gardens!  With 4 lakes, a folly, a giant birdcage thingy (what ARE they called anyway) a boat house, a little bridge and…and…the list goes on!  This is why and where The Ravenswood will succeed.  The perfect blend of outdoor wedding, classic, historic interior, grandeur, photographic opportunities by the bucket load and that  huge suite with it’s fab bar – not to mention a very young and enthusiastic team of people determined to make a couples dreams come true.

For a full list of exhibitors please scroll to the bottom of the page.

zest wedding photography sussex at the Ravenswood wedding venue