First of all, what is a marquee? Obviously it’s a kind of tent used for outdoor events, but its also a big part of your British wedding. We all know that the British weather is temperamental at the best of times and even more so when you’ve planned something. This is where the marquee can save the day, offering covering from one section of a venue to another, coverage from the summer downpours, warmth for those cool autumn evenings. But there’s not just one type of marquee and there really aren’t two marquees alike!

What are my options?

Canvas and Pole 

Gives a rustic feel, perfect for the countryside as this marquee will melt into the scenery. The high vaulted roof is the perfect place to add chandeliers to create a more chic feeling.

Atrium frame 

More of a traditional-looking marquee with clear-sides and optional clear ceiling to really feel like you’re under the stars no matter the weather! 

Stretch tent

A great option for those who want to be outside and part of nature, with optional side coverage depending on your location and preference for weather coverage

Tipi

Perfect for that festival vibe or to enhance the rustic feel. Offers something different to the other marquees giving it the unique appeal. 

So, how do I choose a marquee?

Choosing your marquee will depend on a number of things, the first thing to think about is your backdrop: 

Country House’s work great with canvas and pole or framed marquees because they offer a more classic look that will enhance the natural environment around it. 

Rolling hills work great with any marquee as they can be used as the focal point that stands out against the beautiful hillside.

Forest’s work well with tipi’s and stretch tents to give woodland wonderland feel, while a clear-roofed framed marquee offers a unique view of the sky. 

Natural water feature, such as a pond or lake’s work amazingly with canvas pole and stretch tent as the flowing ceiling and the draping of the material gives almost a waterfall look - helping them settle into the scenery for a natural look. 

Then you need to think about the details like the number of guests you want to invite, all marquees come in a variety of sizes to accommodate any size party. Once you’ve worked out guests, what about the layout? How big a dance floor do you want? Do you need a stage for your wedding band? Finally, where do you want the bar? You could have it in the same space as everything else or you might want it off to one side in its own little tent/marquee. 

Depending on which company you use you may be offered extras like tables, chairs, power, the dance floor, a catering marquee (depending on your catering company), refrigerated trailer and toilets. But if your company doesn’t offer these you can still find them elsewhere. One of the great things about having a marquee wedding is the freedom and flexibility you get to decorate the space to fit the theme or vibe you’re trying to create. For example:

For a rustic wedding, you might want festoon lights to build upon the outdoor feel or you might want chandeliers to create a sense of elegance within the marquee. You could use wooden furniture with a mixture of dried and fresh flowers to decorate

For an elegant feel to your wedding, you might want linen-covered tables with metal or chic plastic chairs. You can use the chandeliers to emphasise the sophistication of your space and decorate with fresh flowers. 

The combinations and potential is almost endless, allowing a really personalised feel to your space. Marquees really do offer a blank canvas, so let your creativity flow!