Marquee Wedding: The Perfect Blend of Nature and Elegance

As more couples opt to host their special day on farms and private properties, marquee weddings are on the rise, allowing them to capitalise on stunning natural landscapes. For couples who want a mix of outdoor beauty and a classy setting, a marquee wedding is a great option. Let's take a closer look at marquee weddings and learn how to make yours a memorable celebration. 

What Is a Marquee Wedding?

A marquee wedding is a delightful celebration held under a temporary, versatile structure known as a marquee. These elegant tents provide a blank canvas for couples to create their dream wedding, allowing them to personalise the space according to their style and preferences.

Why Choose a Marquee Wedding?

Marquee weddings are an attractive option for couples seeking a unique and unforgettable celebration. Combining elegance with versatility, they offer a distinctive wedding experience. Let's explore their advantages.

Flexibility in Venue Selection

Unlike traditional wedding venues, which may have limited availability or strict rules and regulations, marquee weddings provide flexibility in terms of location, allowing couples to host their celebration in a variety of settings. Whether it's a lush garden, a scenic vineyard, or a picturesque beachfront setting, the possibilities are endless with a marquee wedding. 

In other words, a marquee wedding offers a cost-effective and efficient solution to crafting a venue in unconventional or secluded locations that may otherwise be inaccessible. With its versatility as a blank canvas, it provides an opportunity to showcase the unique personalities of the couple in delightful and distinctive ways.

Customisation and Personalisation

Another advantage of marquee weddings is the ability to customise and personalise every aspect of the celebration. From the size and layout of the marquee to the decor, lighting, furnishings, and the timeline of the big day, couples have full control over the design of their wedding venue. This flexibility allows couples to craft a truly unique atmosphere that mirrors their personalities and style. It also enables them to stay within their budget constraints.

Capacity and Guest List

Marquee weddings are particularly suitable for couples with extensive guest lists, as they offer greater flexibility regarding the number of attendees. The size of the marquee can be adjusted to suit the guest count, guaranteeing ample space for everyone to partake in the celebrations and revel in the festivities. Additionally, the open-air setting of a marquee wedding creates a relaxed and inviting atmosphere that encourages mingling and socialising among guests.

Seamless Integration of Indoor and Outdoor Spaces

One of the most appealing aspects of a marquee wedding is the seamless integration of indoor and outdoor spaces. With the ability to open up the sides of the marquee or add outdoor seating areas, couples can take full advantage of the natural beauty surrounding their venue. This allows guests to enjoy the best of both worlds – the comfort and shelter of an indoor space combined with the fresh air and scenic views of the outdoors.

Weather Contingency

Finally, marquee weddings offer a practical solution for unpredictable weather conditions. With a sturdy tent providing shelter from rain or harsh sunlight, couples can rest assured knowing that their wedding will proceed smoothly regardless of the weather forecast. This peace of mind allows couples to relax and enjoy their special day without worrying about last-minute changes or disruptions.

An Extension to Your Wedding Venue

Having a marquee extension to your wedding venue means you can easily increase the space available at your venue to allow for additional guests. A wedding marquee serves as a natural extension to your wedding salon, offering the opportunity to seamlessly transition your celebration from indoor elegance to outdoor splendour. By setting up a marquee adjacent to your wedding venue, you can have a versatile space that can accommodate various elements of your wedding, such as dining, dancing, and entertainment, all while offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Considerations for Hosting a Marquee Wedding

While marquee weddings offer unparalleled beauty and flexibility, there are practical considerations to keep in mind when planning your celebration. 

Venue Considerations

Ensure that your chosen location has adequate space to accommodate the size of your marquee and guest list, as well as any additional amenities such as restrooms, parking facilities, and nearby guest accommodations. It's also important to consider accessibility when selecting your venue, as it can impact the overall comfort and enjoyment of your guests.

Time of Year

Consider the time of year carefully when planning a marquee wedding, as it can greatly influence the success of your event. While opting for a marquee wedding is possible throughout the year, each season presents its own set of considerations. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather and longer daylight hours. However, they may also bring higher temperatures and the potential for rain showers. Autumn and early fall can provide cooler temperatures and stunning foliage. But there's a risk of inclement weather. Winter weddings can be magical with the right decorations and heating, but they require careful planning to ensure the comfort of your guests. 

Logistics and Setup

Careful planning is crucial for your wedding marquee to ensure a smooth event. Coordinate with the marquee provider regarding access times, setup duration, and dismantling. Clarify if they handle installation or if you need another team. Discuss power and water sources for catering, lighting, and entertainment. Seamless coordination with vendors is vital. Communicate early to understand their needs, like catering prep stations or band setups. Ensure the marquee company can accommodate vendor requirements and manage setup sequences to prevent overlap. 

What Size Wedding Marquee Do You Need?

The size of the marquee is crucial and should match the number of guests you expect. It's important to balance space for dining, dancing, and socialising without having too much empty area. Plan the layout carefully, considering tables, dance floors, and areas for entertainment, bars, and catering. Allocate enough room for comfortable movement – industry standards recommend around 15 square feet per person for seated receptions.

Different Types of Wedding Marquees

When it comes to planning a marquee wedding, one of the first decisions couples face is choosing the type of marquee that best suits their vision and needs. From traditional pole tents to modern clearspan structures, there are various types of wedding marquees to consider, each offering its own unique features and benefits. 

No matter which type of marquee you choose for your wedding, each offers its own charm and character. Just think of the vibe you want to create, and the needs you have. With careful consideration and planning, you can select the perfect marquee to bring your wedding vision to life and create an unforgettable celebration that reflects your unique style and personality.

Can I Have My Civil Ceremony in a Marquee?

This is a common question among couples planning their marquee weddings. In England and Wales, it's important to understand that a legal civil ceremony must occur in a permanent structure licensed for such events. This means that while you can certainly host a celebrant-led ceremony in a marquee to exchange vows and rings, it won't be legally binding. It's a beautiful option for couples seeking a personalised and meaningful ceremony, but they'll need to ensure they complete the legal formalities separately to make their marriage official.

Is a Marquee Wedding More Budget-Friendly?

With the right inspiration, ingenuity, and savvy spending, you can achieve an elegant wedding on a budget. Hosting your wedding on your own land and opting for a marquee can be a cost-effective choice, especially if you prioritise cost-saving measures. However, if you opt for luxurious decorations and premium services, the expenses may exceed those of a traditional wedding 

When hiring a marquee, you’ll also need to consider factors such as delivery and setup fees, furniture and decor rentals, lighting, and heating or cooling options. Be sure to discuss these details with potential marquee companies to get a thorough understanding of the total cost. 

Conclusion

Marquee weddings offer a perfect blend of romance, elegance, and versatility, making them an ideal choice for couples seeking a truly unforgettable wedding experience. Whether you envision an intimate garden affair or a lavish outdoor extravaganza, a marquee wedding provides the perfect canvas to bring your dream wedding vision to life. With careful planning and attention to detail, you can create a magical celebration that you and your guests will cherish for years to come.