Planning a marquee wedding can be a unique and memorable experience, but it also comes with its own set of challenges. Here are 11 top tips (I couldn’t keep it to 10 – enjoy the additional extra!) to help you plan a successful marquee wedding:
- Budget Wisely:
- Establish a clear budget before you start planning. Marquee weddings can vary significantly in cost, so knowing your financial limits will help you make informed decisions.
- Choose the Right Location:
- Select a suitable location for your marquee, considering factors like accessibility, size, and the landscape. Ensure there are proper utilities such as running water and electricity nearby, if needed.
- Weather Contingency Plan:
- Marquee weddings are susceptible to weather conditions. Have a backup plan in case of rain or extreme weather. You may need to rent additional tents or indoor spaces.
- Hire a Professional Marquee Company:
- Invest in a reputable marquee rental company. They can provide advice, set up the marquee properly, and ensure safety and comfort for your guests – I’ve worked with a few in my time, so if you’d like personalised recommendations, get in touch!
- Plan for Flooring:
- I would highly recommend considering renting flooring as part of your marquee build and an extension to this, is deciding if you want/need a dance floor and/or stage. These can often provide level and stable surfaces for your guests. Worth nothing, grass can become muddy in wet conditions.
- Decor and Lighting:
- Decorate the marquee to match your wedding theme. Make it unique by adding personal touches such as photos, signs, and sentimental decorations that reflect your personalities and love story.
- Use lighting creatively to create ambiance, and consider chandeliers, fairy lights, or lanterns for a magical atmosphere.
- Heating and Cooling:
- Depending on the season and location, you may need heating or cooling solutions inside the marquee to keep guests comfortable – opening up sides to create a through breeze is often a saviour in the summer months.
- Catering and Kitchen Facilities:
- Ensure there’s ample space for catering and food preparation. Hire additional tents or tables specifically for these purposes, if necessary. Discuss menu options with your caterer, and serving styles too, that best suit the occasion.
- Logistics and Timing:
- Plan the logistics carefully, including transportation, parking, and guest arrival times. Marquee weddings often require more time for setup and derig, so allow for this in your schedule. (And have you got an event coordinator on-board to be on-site while this takes place?)
- Permits and Regulations:
- Check local regulations, permits, and licenses required for your chosen location and any additional structures. This includes noise ordinances, alcohol permits, and parking regulations.
- Guest Comfort:
- Don’t forget about guest comfort. Provide ample seating, restrooms, and consider a lounge area for relaxation.
Remember that planning a marquee wedding may require more attention to detail compared to a traditional indoor venue. Utilise someone like me who has experience in this field to help you stay organised, communicate with your suppliers, and be prepared for unexpected challenges to make your marquee wedding a memorable and beautiful event.
Special thanks to Dream Catcher Weddings.
