A Guide to Choosing your Wedding Marquee
When it comes to planning your dream wedding, the venue really does set the stage for the entire celebration. Among the vast array of ‘bricks and mortar’ venue options available in the U.K., marquees will always stand out for their versatility, elegance, and ability to transform any space into an incredible setting. In this guide, we'll explore the five most popular styles of outdoor wedding structures, highlighting their unique features and possibilities.
Traditional Pole/Sailcloth Marquee
Traditional Pole Marquee
Also known as a sailcloth (or ‘Sperry’) tent, these traditional marquees are a staple of quintessential British garden weddings, and offer a picturesque backdrop for weddings of all sizes.. As the name suggests, these robust canvas structures feature wooden poles in the centre of the marquee, and are secured by guy ropes on the outside of the tent. Pole marquees are ideal for ‘bringing the outdoors in’ as the window panels can be rolled up or removed as needed, and can be personalised with a variety of flooring options, linings and drapings as required.
Clearspan Marquee
Also known as a ‘frame’ marquee, these contemporary structures feature a steel frame construction that eliminates the requirement for centre poles, maximizing floor space by offering an unobstructed interior. With a modular design, the layout can be adapted to suit all needs - from separating out guest areas and creating entrance spaces - and can be customized with elements such as clear walls and roof panels, and various flooring options. As fully bespoke structures, frame marquees can also be designed and constructed to combat uneven land.
Clearspan/Frame Marquee
Stretch Tent
Stretch Tent
Stretch tents are renowned for their boho-chic aesthetic, organic shapes, and flowing fabric. These versatile structures offer a more affordable option of providing cover for relaxed outdoor weddings, and given the fewer customisation options available, are ideal for providing cover for wedding ceremonies, drinks reception areas, and if planning on ‘al fresco’ dining. In addition to providing essential shade from heat, in the event of showers and/or wind, the sides can be angled down to provide protection from the elements.
Tipi Tents
Tipis are a super flexible blank-canvas option for slightly more intimate weddings, consisting of ‘Giant Hats’ which are interlocked together to produce the final structure. There are numerous configurations available to accommodate the number of guests you require, and the raised entrance design lends itself to an inside/outside feel. Tipis are an ideal choice for relaxed, informal weddings and those looking for festival vibes. Keep the casual feel going by lining up evening food trucks and an outdoor bar.to make the most of the surroundings.
Interlocking Tipi Tents
Giant Yurt
Giant Yurt
Yurts are a fabulous alternative structure if you’re looking for something a little more quirky, and their intricate interior framework creates the perfect blank canvas with a twist. The unique yurt roof provides a sense of light and space during the day, whilst also offering a twinkling view of the stars at night. Round tables work best in these circular structures, but can easily accommodate trestle tables also. Smaller yurts can be attached to create additional spaces for dancing, a bar, or even a children’s area.
Looking for Further Inspo?
Do take a look at some of our previous marquee weddings here!