Planning A Marquee Wedding: A Step-By-Step Guide

Planning a marquee wedding can be a complex task, but it's a great way to put your own stamp on your big day. There are a few key things to consider when planning a marquee wedding, such as the time of year, the size of the marquee, and whether there is access to water and electricity. You'll also want to think about which elements of your day will take place in the marquee and whether you want to embrace the framework with a simplistic style or go all out.

Choosing the right venue

When selecting a venue, it is also essential to consider the time of year. The demand for marquee weddings may be higher during certain seasons, which can impact the availability of venues.

In addition, the size of the marquee will depend on the elements of your day that will take place within it. Decide whether you want to host everything in the marquee, including pre-dinner drinks, dinner, and dancing, or if you prefer to have cocktails and canapes outside before guests enter the marquee for a sit-down reception. Having a clear plan for the "flow" of your day will help you choose the right marquee size and, consequently, the right venue.

Finally, marquee weddings offer a blank canvas to put your own stamp on things and get creative. Consider the overall style and theme you wish to achieve and choose a venue that complements your vision.

Selecting furniture

When selecting furniture for your marquee wedding, it's important to consider the style and theme you want to create. Marquees offer a blank canvas, so you can get creative and put your own stamp on the space. Think about the overall look and feel you want to achieve, and select furniture that complements your chosen theme. For example, if you're going for a luxury country house hotel feel, you might choose stylish and elegant yet comfortable and cosy furniture, such as leather Chesterfields and club chairs, paired with wing back armchairs and dark wood side tables.

It's also important to consider the different areas you'll need within your marquee. You'll likely need dining and dancing spaces, as well as chill-out seating areas. These can be a great way to define different zones within the marquee and create a visually appealing space. For example, you could create a cosy corner with soft seating, or a stylish bar area surrounded by rattan furniture.

When selecting furniture, it's also crucial to keep in mind the number of guests you'll be accommodating and the layout of the marquee. Make sure you have enough tables and chairs to comfortably seat all your guests, with space for them to move around and socialise. Consider the flow of the day and how the furniture will be arranged for each part, such as the ceremony, drinks reception, and dinner.

Don't forget to pay attention to the smaller details, such as place settings, table numbers, and decorations. These can really bring your furniture and overall theme together. Vases, table runners, candlesticks, and tealight holders can add a touch of elegance, while botanical print cushions and decorative pot plants can bring colour and personality to your space.

Finally, remember to consider the practical aspects, such as lighting and power. Ensure that guest routes are well-lit in the evening, and think about whether you'll need a generator to support the power requirements of your furniture and other suppliers.

Creating a timeline

Planning a marquee wedding can be a complex task, but creating a timeline will help you stay organised. Here is a suggested timeline for planning your marquee wedding:

12+ Months Before:

• Choose a date for your wedding, keeping in mind that the time of year will have a significant impact on your plans. For example, consider whether you will need heating or air conditioning, and whether you want to take advantage of the summer weather by having no sides to the marquee.
• Select a venue that has access to water and electricity. Check if the electricity supply is sufficient for your suppliers, and consider investing in a generator as a backup.
• Decide on the size of your marquee, taking into account which elements of your day will take place inside. For example, will you host pre-dinner drinks, dinner, and dancing in the marquee, or will some activities take place outside?

6-12 Months Before:

• Start planning the style and decor of your marquee wedding. Embrace the simplistic structure of the marquee and add personal touches that reflect your style.
• If you're planning on having a clear marquee, ensure that your guests will be comfortable and immersed in the location.

3-6 Months Before:

• Finalise the details of your wedding day timeline, including the "flow" of the day and any activities that will take place inside or outside the marquee.
• Ensure that you have all the necessary furniture and decorations to create your desired atmosphere.

1-3 Months Before:

• Confirm with your suppliers and create a plan for their setup, especially if they will be tapping into the electricity supply.
• Test the generator (if you have one) to ensure it is in good working order.

On the Day:

Enjoy your marquee wedding, knowing that you have planned and prepared to make it a seamless and beautiful day!

Access to water and electricity

Marquee weddings lack the infrastructure that typical venues would provide, including water and power. Knowing whether there is access to water and electricity at your chosen site is one of the most important things you need to establish when first planning a marquee wedding. Even if you can plug into the mains, a generator is often a worthwhile investment, whether for sole power or just as a back-up. By the time all of your suppliers are plugged in, for catering, refrigeration, music, and lighting, it can be quite a hefty load on any electricity supply.

You should also consider whether there is sufficient access to water and electricity for suppliers to be able to tap into. If you are planning on having a marquee wedding, it is important to plan for these additional requirements and ensure that you have the necessary resources to make your special day a success.

When it comes to electricity, it is always better to be safe than sorry. Even if your chosen site has access to electricity, it is a good idea to have a generator on standby in case of any power outages or unexpected demands on the electrical supply. This will ensure that your wedding runs smoothly, and you won't have to worry about any last-minute disruptions.

In addition to electricity, access to water is also crucial for a marquee wedding. You will need water for various purposes, including catering, guest refreshments, and any other activities that may require water. Make sure you know the location of the nearest water source and have a plan for how to access it. If possible, it is also a good idea to have a backup supply of water, just in case of any unexpected shortages or increased demand.

The right marquee size

When it comes to planning a marquee wedding, there are a few things to keep in mind. One of the most important considerations is the size of the marquee. The right marquee size for your wedding will depend on a few factors. Firstly, you need to decide which elements of your day will take place in the marquee. Will you host everything in the marquee, including pre-dinner drinks, dinner and dancing? Or will you have cocktails and canapes outside first, with guests entering the marquee for a sit-down reception? Having a plan for the "flow" of your day will help you choose the right marquee size.

Another thing to consider is the time of year. The season will have a bearing on your plans, especially if you're planning an outdoor wedding. If the weather is looking fine, you might want to consider having no sides to the marquee for a breezy and relaxed feel. Clear covers for the marquee can also be a great way to immerse your guests in the location.

In addition to the size, there are a few other complexities to consider when planning a marquee wedding. One of the main ones is the lack of infrastructure, particularly water and power. It's important to establish whether there is access to water and electricity at your chosen site and if it's sufficient for your suppliers. A generator is often a worthwhile investment, even if you can plug into the mains, as it can provide backup power in case of any issues.

Finally, don't forget to put your own stamp on things! Marquee weddings offer a blank canvas for you to get creative and showcase your personal style. Less is more, so embrace the simplistic structure of the marquee and just touch it up with your unique touches.

Frequently asked questions