Skip to content

Everything You Need for a Marquee Wedding: The Complete Checklist

2-2

Plan your dream marquee wedding with confidence using this comprehensive checklist that covers every detail for a flawless celebration.

The Marquee Structure

The foundation of every successful marquee wedding is, of course, the marquee itself. Choosing the right wedding marquee hire sets the scene for your entire celebration. Think about the number of guests, the layout, and the setting of your chosen location. Whether you prefer a clearspan structure for an open, modern look, a traditional pole marquee for timeless romance, or a stretch tent for a relaxed, festival-style atmosphere, the marquee style should reflect your day. It’s also worth considering clear-sided panels for panoramic views of the landscape, especially if your wedding takes place in a scenic setting.

Once the main structure is chosen, it’s time to plan the layout. Include entrance canopies, internal partitions for different zones (ceremony, dining, bar, and dancing), and accessible pathways so your guests can move comfortably between areas. A weatherproof setup with strong sidewalls and anchoring gives peace of mind in any season. For inspiration on design layouts and finishes, explore our Marquee Wedding Ideas page or speak with our team for tailored marquee setup recommendations that suit your venue and guest experience.

 

Flooring and Staging

Good flooring is essential for comfort, safety, and a polished look. A solid floor prevents uneven footing on grass and keeps guests dry, even in wet conditions. Choose from wooden boarded flooring, interlocking tiles, or carpeted finishes depending on your theme. Make sure your wedding marquee hire package includes sturdy flooring for high-traffic areas such as entrances, catering zones, and bars. Non-slip surfaces near entrances are a must, and a designated dance floor ensures guests can celebrate in style.

If you’re planning speeches or live entertainment, consider a raised stage. It helps focus attention, keeps performers visible, and adds a professional finish to your setup. Pair your stage with proper lighting and audio equipment to make every word and note heard. Visit our [Event Flooring and Staging] page to explore the range of staging options available for weddings of all sizes.

Furniture, Lighting, and Décor

Your choice of wedding furniture hire will define the comfort and aesthetic of your marquee. Start with essential seating and dining arrangements, then add touches that make the space your own, lounge areas, cocktail tables, or outdoor seating that lets guests enjoy the scenery. Match the furniture style to your wedding theme, whether it’s rustic, classic, or contemporary. For styling inspiration, visit our Rustic Decor Ideas to Transform Your Wedding guide to see how texture, tone, and material choices can completely transform your space.

Lighting brings your marquee to life after sunset. Consider chandeliers for elegance, fairy lights for romance, and uplighters or lanterns for warmth and atmosphere. Practical lighting for pathways, catering areas, and entrances keeps everything safe and functional. Add finishing décor touches such as draping, floral installations, and signage to personalise the space. For expert advice on creating the right ambience, read our Lighting Equipment Hire guide.

 

Catering and Behind-the-Scenes Setup

Behind every great wedding meal is an efficient catering setup. A dedicated catering tent ensures your suppliers have everything they need, from prep tables, ovens, and refrigeration to handwashing and waste areas. Check that there’s good access for deliveries and that your caterers can work comfortably without disrupting the main celebration. Speak with your marquee supplier to make sure power and water connections are in place for all kitchen equipment.

In addition to the catering zone, it’s worth setting up behind-the-scenes areas such as a bridal changing room, supplier storage, or a green room for entertainment teams. These spaces keep the main marquee tidy and organised while making the day easier for everyone working behind the scenes. Our team can advise on ideal catering and service layouts, explore our Catering Marquees and Equipment Hire options to make sure no detail is overlooked.

Power, Heating, and Final Touches

A reliable power supply keeps every aspect of your day running smoothly. From lighting and sound to catering and entertainment, everything depends on a stable energy source. Discuss your power requirements early with your marquee provider, who can arrange generators, distribution cabling, and backup solutions if needed. For cooler months, consider marquee heating to maintain comfort, or fans and ventilation for warm weather events. Our [Everything You Need to Know About Marquee Hire] guide covers these technical details in full.

Finally, add those finishing touches that turn a marquee into a wedding venue. Include luxury portable toilets, cloakroom facilities, and clear signage for guests. A well-stocked bar area and thoughtful décor will complete the experience. To make sure you have covered every element, download our [Comprehensive Wedding Planning Checklist] and review it throughout your planning process. With the right structure, equipment, and expert support from WA Carr & Son, your marquee wedding will be seamless from start to finish.

Lets Book a Site Visit

 

Frequently asked questions

How far in advance should I book my wedding marquee?

It’s best to book your wedding marquee hire at least 6 to 12 months in advance, especially if your date falls in peak summer. Early booking gives you more choice on marquee sizes, furniture, and layout options.

What size marquee do I need for my guest list?

The right marquee size depends on the number of guests, layout, and whether you’re including dining, dancing, or lounge areas. As a guide, allow around 10–12 square feet per guest for dining. Your marquee provider can create a detailed floor plan to suit your space and numbers.

Do marquees work in bad weather?

Yes. A well-constructed clearspan wedding marquee with secure anchoring, solid flooring, and sidewalls can handle most weather conditions. Always choose a supplier who provides weatherproofing, drainage, and heating options for peace of mind.

Can I host both the ceremony and reception inside the marquee?

Absolutely. Many couples divide the space using internal partitions or book multiple marquees to create dedicated zones for the ceremony, meal, and evening celebration. This setup allows a seamless transition throughout the day.

What flooring options are available for marquee weddings?

Popular options include wooden boarded flooring, interlocking tiles, or carpeted finishes. Each offers different looks and levels of comfort depending on your style and budget. Solid flooring is essential for uneven or grassy ground.

How do I power lighting, sound, and catering equipment in a marquee?

Your marquee supplier can arrange power distribution and generators suited to your event’s requirements. They’ll calculate total energy usage for lighting, catering, and entertainment to ensure consistent, reliable power throughout your wedding.

Do I need a separate tent for catering?

Yes, most weddings benefit from a dedicated catering marquee or service area. This gives your caterers enough space for preparation, cooking, and storage without interrupting the main event. It also keeps your dining space neat and organised.

Can I decorate the marquee myself?

You can, but working with professionals helps achieve a polished look safely. Your marquee wedding hire team can handle draping, lighting, and floral installations, while you add personal touches like signage or table décor.

Are portable toilets necessary for marquee weddings?

If your venue doesn’t have nearby facilities, luxury portable toilets are essential. They’re discreet, stylish, and can be placed conveniently near guest areas. Some even include lighting, mirrors, and handwashing stations for comfort.

What makes a marquee wedding different from a traditional venue?

A marquee wedding offers complete flexibility — from layout and design to location and schedule. Unlike fixed venues, marquees allow you to create a fully bespoke setting that reflects your personality, whether that’s formal, rustic, or relaxed.