WA Carr & Son Blog

How To Choose The Right Structure For Your Event

Written by Izzy Tully | 15-Dec-2025 14:29:07

A practical guide to choosing the right event structure, including pagodas, marquees, stretch tents, and gazebos. Learn how to select the best option for your event style, guest numbers, and location.

Choosing the right structure is one of the most important parts of planning an outdoor event. The correct setup not only provides shelter but also defines the layout, flow, and atmosphere for your guests. With several options available, understanding how different event structures work helps ensure your event runs smoothly from start to finish.

From smaller gatherings to large-scale celebrations, structures such as pagodas, marquees, stretch tents, and gazebos all serve different purposes. Selecting the right option depends on guest numbers, location, event style, and how the space will be used alongside flooring, lighting, and sound.

Understanding Event Structure Options

Event structures are designed to create usable, weather-protected spaces for outdoor events. Each structure offers different benefits depending on how formal the event is, how many guests you are hosting, and the type of layout required. Understanding these options early helps avoid common planning issues later on.

Pagodas, marquees, stretch tents, and gazebos can all be used individually or combined to create a cohesive event setup. Professional advice ensures each structure works together seamlessly, allowing for clear zones such as dining, dancing, catering, and guest circulation.

Pagodas for Stylish and Flexible Event Spaces

Pagodas are highly versatile structures often used for entrances, bars, catering areas, or breakout spaces. Their clean lines and modular design make them ideal for events where flexibility and presentation are equally important. Multiple pagodas can be linked together to create larger covered areas while maintaining a smart appearance.

When combined with professional flooring and atmospheric lighting, pagodas integrate beautifully alongside a main marquee or other structures. They are particularly effective for weddings, garden parties, and corporate events where defined functional spaces are required.

Marquees for Large-Scale and Fully Planned Events

A marquee is the most comprehensive solution for larger events and weddings. It provides a fully enclosed environment that can accommodate dining layouts, dancefloors, bars, staging, and guest seating. This makes the marquee a central structure that brings the entire event together.

With the addition of solid flooring, elegant linings, tailored lighting, and integrated sound, a marquee can be transformed to suit any event style. Careful planning ensures the space feels comfortable, well-proportioned, and practical throughout the day and evening.

Stretch Tents for Contemporary and Informal Events

Stretch tents offer a modern and relaxed alternative to traditional event structures. Their flowing shapes create an open and informal atmosphere, making them popular for drinks receptions, festivals, and less formal celebrations. Stretch tents can be installed in a variety of configurations depending on the site.

While visually striking, stretch tents require careful consideration of ground conditions and weather planning. When paired with suitable flooring and ambient lighting, they provide a unique and memorable setting that still offers essential shelter.

Gazebos for Practical and Smaller Event Needs

Gazebos are best suited for smaller-scale or practical requirements within an event setup. They are commonly used for supplier cover, small catering areas, or garden gatherings where a simple structure is needed for short durations.

Although gazebos offer basic protection, they do have limitations compared to larger structures such as pagodas or marquees. Understanding their role helps ensure expectations are realistic and the overall event layout remains cohesive.

Conclusion

Choosing the right event structure plays a key role in the success of any outdoor event. By understanding the differences between pagodas, marquees, stretch tents, and gazebos, you can select a setup that suits your space, guest numbers, and event style.

With professional planning and the right combination of structures, flooring, lighting, and sound, your event can be both practical and visually impressive. Expert guidance ensures everything works together seamlessly on the day.

 

 

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