Whether you’re planning a summer or winter wedding, marquee venues are becoming increasingly popular – a blank canvas that you can really put your own stamp on.
There are lots of things to consider when hiring a marquee for your wedding. The art to a successful celebration is definitely all down to military precision planning! Here are some essential tips for planning your perfect marquee wedding.
Marquee Style
Try to choose your marquee style early on, as it’s the centrepiece and will have an influence over every other decision you make. If you’re sticking to a traditional wedding you may want to choose a traditional marquee with a dining area and dance floor. If you want something a little alternative, perhaps a festival, or winter wonderland theme, consider tipi hire – it’s like a marquee, but more magical!
Consider the location of your wedding – this may determine what marquee style is available to you. Many marquee providers host open days, so it is recommended to attend one of these for a real taste of the venue. This will also help you to suss out any extras that may be required, such as lighting, decor and floral arrangements.
Caterers
Catering is difficult as you have to consider what your guests will like the most. But remember, your wedding is all about you, and you can’t please everyone! If you want a sit-down meal with waiter service, ensure that your marquee will allow for this. You may need access to water and a generator near the marquee area.
If you’re going down the route of a food truck, hog roast, BBQ, or buffet, find out what space is available next to, or within your marquee site.
Table Plans
Not having a strict table plan can work wonders, but if you don’t want to risk your guests standing around, a seating plan of some kind is advisable.
Long trestle tables of around 20-30 guests are a popular and on-trend choice for marquee weddings and they are also a sure-fire way to avoid offending anyone with controversial seating arrangements.
Lighting & Design
Your marquee provider will be able to provide many of the lights and tables you require, however, it’s the little extras, like fairy lights, tea lights, and candles that will make your wedding unique to you!
If you want tea lights, why not ask your family and friends to collect jars in the run up to the wedding. Host a DIY session and vamp up your jars some ribbon and burlap material.
Toilets
These are often supplied by your marquee company, but find out what kind of facilities are available. Will you be comfortable expecting your guests to use a port-a-loo, or will you need something a little more up-market?
Walkway
If your marquee is in a field, make sure there are adequate paths to your venue – FYI mud and heels are not a good mix!
Entertainment
Whether you are opting for a brass band, a DJ or a string quartet, find out what facilities and equipment they need and put provisions in place to ensure their music can fill your venue. Ask for a trial run – many marquee companies will happily set up a few days before your wedding.
Marquee weddings are absolutely beautiful, but they need just as much planning as a standard wedding venue. Make sure you spend some time with your other half weighing up exactly what you need.
When looking to budget for a wedding – marquees and tipis can give a great amount of flexibility. The venue cost can vary greatly depending on the location of the marquee, the size and décor. But, you can easily save thousands compared to more traditional venues.
The best thing you can do is be organised but flexible (if possible). Have a plan and a detailed budget set out from the offset and your marquee style wedding is bound to be a great success.
If you are getting married during the winter, you can usually get a substantial discount on marquee-hire. With modern flooring and heating available, you can create a wonderful, warm and snug winter wonderland atmosphere.
