Wedding Marquee Planning Guide
Wedding Marquee Planning Guide
A marquee wedding gives you the freedom to create a celebration that feels completely your own — but there is a little more to plan than simply choosing the marquee itself.
From working out how much space you need to choosing tables, chairs, linen, tableware, bars and a dancefloor, this guide will help you think through the key elements of your marquee wedding setup.
Your marquee supplier should advise on the marquee structure, site, flooring, lighting, power and installation. CaterHire can then help you bring the interior together with wedding furniture, tableware, catering equipment and event essentials for hire.
Start with Your Guest Numbers
The size of your marquee will depend on more than the number of guests. Think about how many people will be seated for dinner and whether you also need space for a bar, dancefloor, band, stage, lounge area or buffet.
Choose the Right Location
Your marquee supplier should survey the site and advise on the best position. Access for installation, the level of the ground and any obstacles can all affect the final setup.
Trees, ponds and other garden features do not always rule out a marquee. In some cases they can even be incorporated into the design.
Plan Your Tables & Seating
Decide whether you prefer round dining tables, long banquet-style trestle tables or a combination of both. Your choice will affect the overall look of the marquee and how much room is required.
Wedding chairs can also change the feel of the space completely, from relaxed and rustic to elegant and formal.
Choose Your Linen & Tableware
Once your tables are selected, choose tablecloths, napkins, crockery, cutlery and glassware to create the look you want.
A consistent table setting can transform a marquee interior and help bring your wedding colours and styling together.
Create a Practical Bar Area
Allow enough space for the bar itself as well as refrigeration, glassware, ice, mixers, storage and staff working behind the counter.
Position the bar somewhere accessible without disrupting the main route between dining tables, entrances and the dancefloor.
Allow Space for the Dancefloor
Your dancefloor, DJ, band or stage will need to be included in the marquee layout from the beginning rather than added once the dining plan is complete.
You may also want lounge furniture nearby to create a more relaxed space for guests later in the evening.
Wedding Marquee Hire Checklist
Once the marquee itself is organised, these are some of the main items you may need to complete the event setup.
Round or trestle dining tables
Wedding chairs
Tablecloths and napkins
Crockery and charger plates
Cutlery
Glassware
Bar counter and bar accessories
Dancefloor and staging
Catering and kitchen equipment
Lounge furniture for evening guests
Everything You Need Inside Your Wedding Marquee
Once your marquee is booked, we can help you bring the interior together. Explore our wedding and event hire collections for dining, drinks, catering and the evening celebration.
Tables for Hire
Choose from round dining tables, trestle tables, cocktail tables and other sizes to suit your marquee layout.
View TablesChairs & Stools
Discover dining chairs, wedding chairs, bar stools and seating styles to complement your marquee and table setup.
View Chairs & StoolsTableware Hire
Browse crockery, cutlery, charger plates and tableware collections to create your wedding table setting.
View TablewareGlassware Hire
Choose wine, champagne, water, cocktail and speciality glassware to suit your drinks menu and table style.
View GlasswareTable Linen
Complete your tables with tablecloths, napkins and table covers in a range of sizes and colours.
View Table LinenBuffet & Canapé Hire
Find serving dishes, platters, buffet equipment and presentation pieces for your wedding meal, reception or evening food.
View Buffet & CanapéBarware Hire
Explore bar counters, accessories, refrigeration and serving equipment to create a practical drinks area.
View BarwareLounge Furniture
Create comfortable breakout areas with sofas, armchairs, coffee tables and occasional furniture for your guests.
View Lounge FurnitureDancefloor, Staging & Lighting
Add a dedicated dancefloor and staging area for your evening entertainment, speeches or live music.
View Dancefloor & StagingCatering Equipment
Hire ovens, refrigeration, food preparation equipment and other catering essentials for your wedding service.
View Catering EquipmentFlooring, Lighting & Power
These elements are normally organised directly with your marquee supplier but should be considered early in your planning.
Will You Need a Full Floor?
Most wedding marquees benefit from proper flooring throughout. Your marquee company can advise on hard flooring, carpet and the most suitable finish for the site.
Plan for Day & Night
Lighting can completely change the atmosphere once daylight fades. Consider ambient lighting inside the marquee as well as lighting outside for entrances and surrounding spaces.
Check Your Electrical Requirements
Catering equipment, refrigeration, entertainment and lighting can place significant demands on power. Your marquee supplier and caterer should confirm whether a generator is required.