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What you need to know about marquee weddings

What you need to know about marquee weddings and what some people won't tell you

Clear Tent Marquee Wedding Set Up

In recent years we have seen the rising popularity of the marquee wedding. This style of wedding is so appealing to couples as it really allows you to put your personal ‘stamp’ on the wedding and ensure your guests have a one-of-a-kind experience. A marquee wedding on the South Coast of NSW is perfect- there are so many amazing locations!

Be warned it is more work but the benefits far outweigh any of the extra work involved- all the couples who have worked with us over the years will attest to that! I feel it is very important for couples to be prepared for what is ahead when choosing a marquee wedding- it certainly isn’t something that suits everyone.

So when looking at the key differences between a marquee wedding and a venue wedding you need to consider the following:

Cost

A marquee wedding is almost always going to cost more due to the fact that you need to hire everything from the floor to the ceiling right through to cutlery and crockery. It can still be done on a budget without making too many sacrifices. Ideas include finding a space that has a level compacted surface so you don’t need a floor or even having a cocktail-style function instead of seated which eliminates a large amount of hire equipment and food packages (depending on the caterer!) may also be less.

Creative license

If you like to DIY then a marquee wedding is certainly your style! By its very nature a marquee wedding provides you with a blank canvas by which to start ‘painting’ with your own style. You can source styling items that suit your tastes and reflect your personality as a couple then take time out with close family and friends to set it all up prior to the wedding. Over the years I have seen some absolutely amazing DIY weddings all through creative thought and not much $$.

Weather

Weather can be a downside of having a marquee wedding as everything to do with the wedding is essentially outside. Although the marquees are completely water and windproof the walls on it are not ideal should you have bad weather as guests still have to walk to and from the marquee for amenities etc. The best idea, in this case, is to have a backup plan in the form of agreeing with your hire company to have access to a larger marquee should the lead-up to the wedding be wet. Generally, if it is a busy time you may need to actually book the larger marquee or take the gamble and hope it is available in the weeks leading up to the event. A larger marquee will ensure there is ample space for all guests inside the marquee to eat and mingle. It may even serve as a backup plan for your ceremony should it rain (fingers crossed!).

Reliable vendors

This is an essential part of any marquee wedding. You need to source suppliers that are both honest and reliable as well as happy to go out of their way in the lead-up to the wedding to help with any last-minute emergencies. With this style of wedding, you will probably have a large number of suppliers to deal with, more so than a regular venue wedding, so sourcing suppliers that tick the most boxes in terms of reducing your workload is advisable. Vendors that know and have worked with each other before are an even bigger advantage as they know how each other likes to work and will often work out logistics between themselves saving you time and stress. Always try to use vendors that have been recommended, as you know the quality of their work. You should visit their showroom to see their equipment, food, flowers, look at books, and whatever the service is that they provide to ensure you are happy with the quality of their work. And remember in this business cheap almost certainly comes with a catch so make sure you fully research the companies and their products and services

Hopefully, this short overview has helped you if you are considering a marquee wedding. It is more work but it is one of the most wonderful ways to have your special day (trust me I know!)

Check out our website for more venue options on our Locations & Venue Inspirations page

Erin xx