Your wedding day is truly an unforgettable celebration of love, together, intimacy, magical moments, and memories. When it comes to creating a memorable atmosphere, there is nothing better than the charm and versatility like wedding marquees.
Wedding marquees can be best described as custom structures that provide the unmatched freedom to design a one-of-a-kind setting – be it a lush garden, in your backyard, or by a scenic lake/location. However, choosing the right marquee requires a lot more patience and knowledge than just picking a tent.
In this guide on how to select the perfect wedding marquees for your special day, we will gain insights on how to make the best decision.
1. Understand the Types of Wedding Marquees
Before you dive into décor and lighting, it’s important to first understand the different types of wedding marquees available:
- Traditional Pole Marquees: These classic, elegant, and stunning marquees are supported by guy ropes and center poles. Traditional Pole Marquees look highly romantic but they do require soft ground for anchoring.
- Frame Marquees: Frame Marquees are an excellent choice irrespective of the terrain. They don’t need central poles, which makes a good choice for more flexible layouts.
- Stretch Tents: Stretch Tents offer an organic, sophisticated, and modern look and are an excellent choice for informal weddings.
- Clear Span Marquees: Clear Span Marquees facilitate complete freedom for layout planning and decorating since there is no requirement of interior support poles.
2. Assess Your Wedding Size and Layout
First things first, let us start with the guest list since the count of guests will directly influence the marquee size. You will also require space for buffet, food stations, dance floor, dining table, chairs, DJ or entertainment booth, bar, or lounge area.
To get started, it’s best to have a word with your marquee provider. Do let them an estimated guest count and activity layout so they can recommend a few custom structures. This will ensure that everyone at the wedding gets comfortably accommodated without feeling cramped.
3. Consider the Venue and Terrain
Is your wedding in a garden, on uneven ground, or on a beach? The terrain will significantly impact the type of wedding marquee you can easily set up. For instance, frame marquees work best for uneven or sloped areas while soft grounds can be a good choice for pole tents. On the other hand, patios or urban rooftops may require lightweight stretch tents or frame structures.
Lastly, you must always perform a site inspection with the marquee supplier before you choose the ideal wedding marquee for your big day.
4. Weather-Proof Your Celebration
One of the biggest advantages of custom wedding marquees is their unique ability to adapt to evolving weather conditions. However, you’ll have to still plan smartly. To get started, you can include clear panels or sidewalls for rain and wind protection. Alternatively, you can add cooling fans for summer events or add heating for winter events.
Also, you should make sure that the wedding marquee is properly and safely structured so it can easily withstand gusty weather conditions. It does make sense to be prepared for the worst so the unpredictable weather doesn’t play a spoilsport.
5. Choose a Theme and Style
Wedding marquees provide an excellent blank canvas for creativity to celebrate your special day. Whether you’re planning a sleek modern soiree or a vintage boho affair, you must ensure that the wedding marquee complements your wedding theme.
For instance, you may decide to add floral installation, chandeliers, and draping for a romantic and sophisticated look. Similarly, you can use bold lighting and minimalist décor for a contemporary vibe. You may incorporate fairy lights and wooden furniture for rustic charm.
The point is to carefully select a marquee that blends seamlessly with your wedding vision.
6. Lighting and Décor
When it comes to your wedding day, you must always remember that lighting can break or make the ambiance. Therefore, you should use festoon lights or string lights to create a dreamy atmosphere.
If you want to highlight trees nearby or architectural features, you may opt for LED uplights. Lanterns and chandeliers can be good choices to add character and elegance to the ambiance. To sum up, you need to coordinate lighting with the overall décor for a truly magical experience.
7. Plan Logistics Thoroughly
A successful and hassle-free marquee wedding requires meticulous planning. Firstly, you must determine the availability of water, restrooms, and power. Also, it is equally important to carefully plan the layout for guest flow and catering access.
Furthermore, you should discuss safety measures such as fire safety equipment and emergency exits to be on the safer side and enjoy the special day without worries.
8. Hire a Reliable Marquee Provider
Your wedding day is special and you just cannot leave it to anyone. An experienced marquee supplier with a proven track with weddings is an absolute must.
The supplier can help you choose from a wide range of custom structure options suited to your wedding theme so that you can experience professional setup and transparent pricing. You should evaluate different types of full-service packages including flooring, lighting, and accessories.
9. Plan Your Budget
Wedding marquees can vary greatly in cost depending on factors such as features, add-ons, and size. You should budget wisely by considering things such as setup and dismantling charges, heating, lighting, flooring, and décor.
Also, you must consider rental costs for the marquee and hidden costs such as site visits and delivery charges. For this, it is best to have a prior discussion with the provider.
10. Practice Flexibility
Finally, be flexible. There is no denying the fact that even the best-laid plans can end up with minor or major adjustments – whether due to guest changes, weather, or venue restrictions. You must trust your team and go with the flow.
Final Thoughts
Selecting the perfect wedding marquees is all about blending creativity and aesthetics. After all, these beautiful custom structures are more than just shelters – they are the foundation of your dream wedding venue.
The right planning, a touch of imagination and vendor support can go a long way to make your marquee wedding stunning and unforgettable.
Whether you’re planning an extravagant garden gala or a romantic outdoor affair let your wedding marquees set the stage for the celebration of a lifetime.