Hiring a marquee gives you complete flexibility to create an event exactly how you imagine it. Whether you're planning a wedding, corporate event, birthday party, charity fundraiser or private celebration, a marquee allows you to choose the location, design the layout and create a unique atmosphere.
However, successful marquee events rely on careful planning. From choosing the right size to arranging power, flooring and weather protection, there are several important decisions to make before confirming your booking.
This marquee hire checklist covers everything you should consider to help your event run smoothly from start to finish.
1. Define Your Event Requirements
Before requesting quotations, decide exactly how your marquee will be used.
Consider:
- What type of event are you hosting?
- How many guests will attend?
- Will guests be seated or standing?
- Will there be dining?
- Do you need a dance floor?
- Will there be live entertainment?
- Is a bar required?
- Will catering be on site?
The more information you provide, the easier it is for your marquee supplier to recommend the right structure and layout.
2. Choose the Right Marquee Style
Different marquee styles suit different events and locations.
Traditional Marquees
A classic choice for weddings and formal occasions, offering an elegant appearance with traditional centre poles.
Frame Marquees
Frame marquees have no internal support poles, creating an open interior that's ideal for dining layouts, exhibitions and corporate events.
Stretch Tents
Stretch tents provide a contemporary look and can adapt to unusual spaces, making them popular for outdoor parties and relaxed celebrations.
An experienced marquee company can explain which option best suits your venue, guest numbers and event style.
3. Check Your Event Location
Not every outdoor space is automatically suitable for a marquee.
Before booking, consider:
- Available space
- Ground conditions
- Vehicle access
- Nearby trees
- Underground services
- Sloping ground
- Distance from power supplies
If you're using a private garden, country estate or licensed venue, ask whether there are any installation restrictions.
Professional marquee companies will often carry out a site survey before confirming the installation.
4. Plan for British Weather
Weather is one of the biggest considerations for any outdoor event in the UK.
Although marquees provide shelter from rain, it's equally important to consider temperature and guest comfort.
Depending on the season, you may need:
- Heating
- Ventilation
- Sidewalls
- Solid flooring
- Additional anchoring
- Covered walkways
Having a weather contingency plan helps ensure your event remains enjoyable regardless of the forecast.
5. Plan the Interior Layout
The marquee itself is only part of the overall event.
You'll also need to decide how the internal space will be arranged.
Common additions include:
- Dining tables
- Chairs
- Dance floors
- Staging
- Bars
- Catering areas
- Lounge furniture
- Gift tables
- Welcome areas
A professionally designed floor plan helps ensure guests can move comfortably throughout the event.
6. Don't Forget Lighting
Lighting changes the atmosphere more than almost any other design element.
Rather than relying on standard ceiling lighting alone, consider combining several lighting styles.
Popular options include:
- Festoon lighting
- Fairy lights
- Chandeliers
- Uplighting
- LED colour washes
- Table lighting
- Exterior pathway lighting
Layered lighting creates a more welcoming atmosphere and improves photography after sunset.
7. Consider Power Requirements
Many events require significantly more electricity than people expect.
Power may be needed for:
- Catering equipment
- DJs
- Live bands
- Lighting
- Refrigeration
- Bars
- Heating
- Charging stations
Large events often require a generator and professional power distribution rather than relying on domestic electrical supplies.
Your marquee supplier can advise on the safest and most suitable solution.
8. Arrange Toilets and Guest Facilities
Guest facilities are often overlooked during the early planning stages.
Consider whether you'll need:
- Luxury portable toilets
- Accessible toilet facilities
- Baby changing facilities
- Handwashing stations
- Cloakrooms
- Additional parking
Planning these facilities early helps improve the overall guest experience.
9. Understand Exactly What's Included
Marquee quotations can vary considerably.
Before comparing prices, check whether the quotation includes:
- Installation
- Dismantling
- Flooring
- Furniture
- Lighting
- Heating
- Linings
- Delivery
- Generator hire
- VAT
Comparing like-for-like quotations helps avoid unexpected costs later.
10. Book Early
Marquees are in high demand during spring and summer, particularly for weddings and weekend events.
Booking early provides:
- Greater choice of marquee styles
- More availability
- Better supplier availability
- Longer planning time
- Less stress as your event approaches
As a general guide, many wedding marquees are booked between six and twelve months in advance.
Marquee Hire Checklist
Before confirming your booking, make sure you've considered:
Guest numbers
Event layout
Marquee style
Site suitability
Ground conditions
Weather contingency plans
Flooring
Furniture
Lighting
Power supply
Generator requirements
Toilet facilities
Accessibility
Catering space
Installation access
Breakdown schedule
Full quotation review
Frequently Asked Questions
What size marquee do I need?
The ideal size depends on your guest numbers, seating arrangement, entertainment and additional features such as bars or dance floors. Your supplier should provide a recommended layout based on your event.
Can a marquee be installed in my garden?
In many cases, yes. A site survey will confirm whether there is sufficient space, suitable access and appropriate ground conditions.
Do I need a generator?
Smaller events may use an existing electrical supply, while larger events often require a generator to power lighting, catering equipment and entertainment safely.
What happens if it rains?
Professional marquees are designed to withstand normal UK weather conditions. Flooring, sidewalls and heating can all improve guest comfort during poor weather.
How early should I book a marquee?
For weddings and summer events, booking six to twelve months in advance is recommended to secure your preferred marquee and installation date.
Final Thoughts
Hiring a marquee gives you the freedom to create an event that's tailored to your guests, your location and your vision. With the right planning, it offers flexibility that traditional venues simply can't match.
By considering your layout, site conditions, power requirements, guest facilities and weather contingency plans early, you'll avoid common problems and enjoy a smoother planning process.
Working with an experienced marquee hire company from the outset also means you'll receive practical advice on everything from sizing and flooring to lighting and logistics, helping you create an event that's both memorable and stress-free.
