Andrew Griffith MP met with the owners of many of South Downs’ most beautiful wedding venues to hear how they are preparing for re-opening this Summer.
The virtual roundtable event was hosted by the Arundel & South Downs MP following a very difficult time for the sector. The gradual lifting out of lockdown permits weddings of up to 6 people from today (29th March) building up to 17th May when weddings will be allowed with up to 30 attendees and a return to full sized weddings from 21 June.
Attendees represented at Andrew’s roundtable included iconic West Sussex wedding venues such as Cissbury Barns, Great Betley Farmhouse, Farbridge Wedding Venue, Pangdean Old Barn, Sullington Tithe Barn, Amberley Castle, Arundel Town Hall, The Norfolk Arms Hotel, Wiston House, Bignor Park, Long Furlong Barn, Fitzleroi Barn, Avisford Park Hotel and Tottington Manor, and important suppliers such as White Mischief Bridal, Angel Like Flowers, Tents n Events, Bus and Bug Vintage Cars and Place Settings.
Andrew gave his reassurance that the Government is committed to the date of 21st June to end restrictions. Forward planning is an important factor for the industry which has a large and extended supply chain to consider, including florists, caterers, marquee and equipment hire, musicians, beauticians, hairdressers, photographers and firework companies.
Andrew Griffith said:
“I am grateful to all the wedding venues and wedding suppliers who joined me for the roundtable. It is a privilege to represent Arundel & South Downs which has so many stunning venues for couples to choose from.
“There has been a lack of certainty for businesses and their clients for so long, but I hope the clearer way ahead will encourage couples to book with confidence.
“The wedding industry supports thousands of West Sussex jobs, from event staff to florists, photographers, hire companies, photographers and dress makers and many of these businesses are keen to start recruiting in readiness for the new wedding season. They have my greatest support as we move through the next few months.”
ENDS
Notes
- Photograph – courtesy of Pangdean Old Barn, a South Downs wedding venue.
- To read the Government guidance on weddings see https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/covid-19-guidance-for-small-marriages-and-civil-partnerships/covid-19-guidance-for-small-marriages-and-civil-partnerships
