Top Questions to Ask When Planning a Wedding Marquee

Planning a wedding can be both exciting and overwhelming, especially when it comes to choosing the right venue. A marquee is a fantastic option, offering flexibility, a unique atmosphere, and the chance to bring your dream day to life in a beautiful outdoor setting. However, there are several important questions to consider when planning a wedding marquee.

Here are the top ones to guide you through the process.

  1. What is the size of the marquee needed? The first step is to determine how many guests you plan to invite. Marquee sizes vary greatly; you want to ensure there’s enough room for dining, dancing, and all other activities. When calculating the size, consider tables, chairs, and any other decor elements. Don’t forget to account for space for the dance floor and a buffet or bar area, if applicable. Bucks Marquees will guide you and provide advice to ensure you have the perfect size for your wedding.
  2. What is the budget for the marquee and associated services? Marquees can range in cost depending on size, style, and additional features. It’s essential to establish a clear budget early on. Make sure to factor in not just the marquee rental, but also lighting, flooring, heating or cooling, and any additional decor. Bucks Marquees has a list of recommended suppliers we work with on a regular basis, so if we cannot provide any items we can source them. This gives you complete transparency with costs as we itemise everything.
  3. What type of marquee should we choose? There are several types of marquees available, including clear span, pole, and traditional tents. Each offers a different aesthetic and functionality. Clear span options provide unobstructed views, whereas pole tents give a classic look. Consider your wedding theme and the atmosphere you want to create when making this decision. Here at Bucks Marquees, we offer clearpan style with the option of panoramic windows, and clear roofs so you truly connect with your surroundings.
  4. What is the location like? Selecting the right spot for your marquee is crucial. Think about accessibility for guests, parking availability, and the surrounding environment. Will you need a permit for the location? Check with local authorities to ensure you comply with regulations. Also, consider the layout of the site for things like power sources, drainage, and accessibility.
  5. What amenities do we need to include? Consider what amenities will be necessary to keep your guests comfortable. This might include restrooms, heating, lighting, and flooring.
  6. What about catering and bar services? Will you be providing a full-service meal, a buffet, or perhaps a casual food truck? Ensure that the catering team can work effectively within the marquee setup, including considerations for kitchen access and food storage. Additionally, if you plan on having a bar, confirm how the bartenders will set up and serve drinks in the marquee. Bucks Marquees has a fantastic mobile bar we work with and a few caterers too.
  7. How will we handle the décor and ambiance? Marquees are a blank canvas that can be transformed to fit your vision. Think about how you’ll want to style the space with lighting, decorations, and color schemes that match your wedding theme. Will you need to hire a florist or décor team to create your ideal look?
  8. What is the contingency plan for bad weather? Even with the best planning, weather can be unpredictable. Discuss with your marquee rental company about their policies and potential backup options in case of unfavorable weather. Make sure there is a plan in place to keep guests comfortable, regardless of whether it’s rainy, windy, or too sunny. Bucks Marquees is a small family run business, therefore you will have direct contact with Greg, the director who will be on hand throughout the process and only a call away should you need him on your special day.
  9. When do we need to start setting up? Marquee setups can take time, so coordinate with your rental company on when the installation will happen. This is crucial to ensure you have everything ready before your guests arrive. Consider how long you’ll need for décor setup and any additional entertainment or activities. Bucks Marquees tends to set up Wed-Fri and take down after the event Mon & Tues, giving you plenty of time to decorate and finalise the layout.
  10. What is the takedown process after the wedding? Post-event, it’s important to understand the timeline for taking down the marquee. Verify with the rental company about their policies and what you need to do on your end. Planning ahead will help make the whole process smoother after the festivities come to an end. Bucks Marquees will liaise the exact takedown date and time before your event, leaving you to enjoy every moment and not worry about the bit after.

 

Overall:  Planning a wedding marquee can be a fun experience, full of creativity and personalisation. By asking these key questions, you’ll be well on your way to creating a stunning and unforgettable wedding day. Remember, the more prepared you are, the less stress you’ll face as you approach your special day. Here at Bucks Marquees, we are fully transparent with our costs, service and promises, so we feel knowing these questions will help you find the right marquee provider for your special day.

Happy planning!

www.bucksmarquees.co.uk