Christian and Kat's Summer Twilight Wedding, Sussex

“Cissbury delivers on every aspect imaginable…exceeded our expectations, and those of our guests, in every way possible. They have struck the balance between having a venue with character and natural beauty, with a rustic feel, while making it also feel really classy.”

Choosing a barn wedding venue in West Sussex often comes down to finding somewhere that feels relaxed, beautiful and welcoming. Christian and Kat’s Cissbury Barns wedding did exactly that, combining thoughtful styling with a relaxed summer atmosphere.

Set just outside Worthing, Cissbury Barns is a West Sussex wedding venue that feels secluded without being remote. Surrounded by woodland and flint barns, it offers space to slow down and let the day unfold naturally. From the moment guests arrived, everything felt unforced and easy, with the venue very much setting the tone.

Kat began her morning in The North Wing Apartment, her wedding dress from Velvet Birdcage was modern and understated, with subtle texture and clean lines, paired with simple heels and relaxed hair that felt true to her style.

The ceremony took place outdoors in The Glade, one of Cissbury Barns’ most loved spaces. Chivari chairs were set on the grass, facing a simple structure dressed with flowing fabric and foliage. Tall trees framed the scene, filtering the light and creating a natural sense of enclosure without feeling formal.

As Kat walked into The Glade, with her Mum by her side, the moment felt quietly emotional rather than staged. Christian’s reaction said everything, with their boys by his side, the ceremony unfolded with warmth, laughter and genuine connection. It was intimate without being overly polished, which suited the setting and the couple perfectly.

After the ceremony, guests made their way back towards the barns. The confetti shot took place outside the flint barn doors, with guests gathered closely around. Petals filled the air as Christian and Kat walked out hand in hand, laughing and fully present in the moment. This was followed by drinks and canapes in the walled garden.

Later in the afternoon, the couple slipped away into the secret garden for portraits. Framed by brickwork, gravel paths and climbing greenery, it offered a quieter contrast to the social buzz elsewhere on site. Having these tucked-away spaces is one of the reasons Cissbury Barns works so well as a West Sussex wedding venue.

As the day moved into evening, the sound of the saxophone filled the air, with chilled Ibiza tunes, upping the ante, getting guests ready to fill the dance floor.

Christian and Kat’s Cissbury Barns wedding is a strong example of how relaxed planning and a well-chosen venue can shape the entire experience. For couples looking for real wedding inspiration at a barn wedding venue in West Sussex, it shows how effective it can be to let the location lead and focus on how the day feels, not just how it looks.

Supplier Credits

Caterer - Epi Catering

Stylist - To Have and To Hire

Photographer - Teri V Photography

Florist - Jasmine's Florist

Band/Saxophonist - Function Republic

Make-up Artist & Hairdresser - Glamour Crush

Wedding Dress - Velvet Birdcage 

Photobooth - Bespoke Venue Decor

---

Why Choose Cissbury Barns for Your Wedding?

If you’re searching for a rustic barn wedding venue in West Sussex that feels rustic yet modern, Cissbury Barns is a standout choice. The mix of dramatic barns, views of the South Downs and beautifully renovated spaces means you can make the day completely your own. Whether you are looking for a relaxed summer celebration like Christian and Kat or something wintery and candlelit, it’s a venue that works with every season and every style. Get in touch to come and take a look around.