A Beachscape Photographer's Paradise!
Posted 27th April 2012
Eastbourne is rather unique in several ways, one of which is its amazing suitability for Beachscape photography. As many will know, the best conditions for photography are taken in the light, known as the 'golden hour'...just before sunrise and similarly before sunset. Most locations offer scenery that is suitable for one but not the other particularly if the sun is being featured in the scene.
Due to its geographical location, a slight spur from the mainland caused by the ending of the South Downs, Eastbourne town and beach enjoys a sunrise directly out to sea, fabulous on a clear day (which is most of the time in Britain's sunniest location!) whilst a short drive or a decent walk away on the reverse of the spur is Birling Gap which also features glorious sunsets out to sea.
Why settle for just sunset or sunrise when you can enjoy both plus the very best chance of seeing the sun in the first place. Not to mention enjoying all the wonderful facilities the Grand has to offer in between!!!..........
Happy snapping!
Eastbourne Pier
Birling Gap
The Twelve months of Christmas' at The Grand....
Posted 9th November 2011
With just over seven weeks until Christmas, most preparations are already in hand here at the Grand, I am reminded that thoughts and plans for this special time continue throughout a hotel year.
In the first week of January, we aim to rebook successful festive bands for 11 months hence. Also in January we have a debrief meeting with all Managers and Heads of Departments to discuss the operational side of Christmas past; how we might change things for the following year. We are mindful that tradition is very important to our guests but this should not prohibit innovation from time to time. Feedback from our guests is fully taken into account.
By March, the finishing touches to the festive programme should be completed including for instance, the theme for the cellar tour and tasting, specific menus required for brochures and the children's programme.
By Easter, we aim to be able to publish brochures and update websites. We order some 3500 crackers in July and the Chef has already started to prepare his delicious Christmas puddings!
By August, Party night bookings are in full swing. In early September, the 12 Christmas trees are selected from our suppliers and marked as reserved and Christmas cards are designed.
We assess any particular staffing needs in October and sign up some of our trusty part time staff for work in December. November sees serveral key operational meetings for fine tuning a successful Christmas, until finally on the 23rd December we throw open the doors, light the log fire and celebrate the arrival of another happy house party!........
Jonathan Webley
