Planning a marquee wedding gives you the freedom to create a truly personal celebration, but it does come with a few extra considerations compared to other venues. From choosing the right location to thinking ahead for power, lighting and wet weather. A little forward planning goes a long way. To help you feel confident and prepared, I’ve put together eight key things to consider when planning your marquee wedding. To ensuring your day runs smoothly from start to finish.
Location
It’s important that you consider the land your marquee will be placed on. Your marquee company will want to conduct a site visit to make sure the ground is suitable and there is sufficient space for your numbers and requirements. The ground will need to be level and if possible, well-draining. The grass will need to be cut a couple of days prior to your marquee being erected to make sure the ground underneath isn’t spongy or uneven.
It is also important to consider how your suppliers will gain access to the site. Your marquee company, toilet provider, caterer and bar company will need to be able to drive onto the site to offload their equipment. If there is heavy rainfall on the run up to your wedding, then it will be key to discuss how this may affect set up and pack down.
Style
When it comes to choosing the right structure for your celebration it comes down to a few different elements – ground type (e.g. grass, gravel, tarmac), your guest numbers, aesthetics, and the season. It’s important you do your research, so you understand the practicalities of each one. The ones you may be most familiar with are – pole tents, frame tents and stretch tents. It’s important you choose the right structure for your day and requirements, so don’t be afraid to approach marquee companies to discuss this further before deciding.
Parking
Where will guests and suppliers park on the day and how may cars can you accommodate? Can they gain access 24/7 or is this limited to certain times? Your suppliers will also need to be able to drive up to your marquee to unload/load their equipment so it’s important you’re mindful of this too.
You will also need to make sure this is well lit!
Toilets
Please don’t forget the toilets! This is something which slips couples minds. It may be that you already have toilets onsite, but if not, this is something you will need to hire. There are a few different options available including port-a-loos, urinal blocks and trailers. All offer different features at varying price points.
You will need to consider if they require electricity and water and where they are going to be positioned in relation to your marquee. My tip would be to make sure these are kept out of initial sight, round the back of your marquee would be ideal. It’s also worth noting that if they are positioned on grass you might want to run some matting to them in case of wet weather. You will also need to make sure these have adequate lighting too.
Power & Water Access
Make sure you are aware of your supplier’s power and water requirements. This can drastically affect the service they are able to provide. Make sure to liaise your supplier’s requirements with your marquee company and wedding planner. That way they can make sure this is distributed correctly during set up.
Catering
You will most likely need to provide a catering area which is attached to your marquee. This is normally done in the form of a catering tent (your caterer will be able to advise how big this will need to be). You will also be required to provide trestle tables and lighting for in here too.
This is an absolute must for most suppliers, so don’t think you can save a few pennies by not including one.
Lighting
There are so many beautiful lighting options from Edison bulbs to festoons and fairy lights. The options are endless, so speak directly to your marquee company who will be able to advise further.
It’s also important to consider what else may require lighting e.g. your toilet facilities, the car park etc. It will most likely be dark when guests leave, so it is important to consider how they will make their way offsite safely.
Wet Weather
Always have a backup plan! You never know what is going to happen weather wise so being prepared for all eventualities is key. It could be that you need extra matting running from the car park to the marquee. Or that you need to have a backup plan for your outdoor ceremony and drinks reception.
Having a plan B results in a lot less stress and panic on the lead up to your wedding. If you’re unsure on your plan B then get in touch, I’d be happy to discuss this with you further.
Planning a marquee wedding may involve more logistics than a traditional venue, but with the right preparation it can be an incredibly rewarding and memorable way to celebrate your day. By carefully considering each of these key elements and working closely with experienced suppliers, you can create a beautiful, well-organised setting that runs smoothly whatever the weather. Taking the time to plan ahead will allow you to relax and truly enjoy every moment of your wedding day.
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