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Wedding Tents & Marquees

Everything you need to know about hiring tents, marquees, and temporary structures for outdoor or garden weddings — from sailcloth to clear-span options.

A marquee or tent transforms an open field, a garden, or a beachfront into a fully functional wedding venue. It is the ultimate blank canvas: you control every element of the space, from the flooring and lighting to the layout and atmosphere. But that freedom comes with complexity — marquee weddings require significantly more planning, coordination, and infrastructure than indoor venue weddings.

The marquee market offers several distinct types. Traditional pole marquees (supported by central poles and guy ropes) are the most affordable and offer a classic, romantic silhouette. Clear-span (frame) marquees use an aluminium frame with no internal poles, maximising usable floor space. Sailcloth tents combine wooden poles with a translucent fabric that glows beautifully at night. Stretch tents (Bedouin or freeform) create organic, sculptural shapes and work well in uneven terrain. Tipis offer a bohemian aesthetic and can be linked together for larger celebrations.

Beyond the tent itself, you will need to arrange flooring, heating or cooling, lighting, power generators, toilets, catering facilities, and furniture — all of which a venue would normally provide. This makes the total cost of a marquee wedding comparable to (or sometimes higher than) an indoor venue, but the result is uniquely yours.

Average Cost Range

$3,000 – $20,000+

Booking Timeline

Book 9–12 months in advance for peak season. Marquee companies have limited inventory, and the most popular tent styles sell out earliest.

What to Look For

Structural engineering certification and compliance with local safety regulations
Weatherproofing quality — waterproof fabric, weighted anchoring systems, and wind-rated structures
A full range of accessories: flooring, linings, lighting, heating/cooling, and furniture available from the same supplier
Site survey included before quoting — a reputable company will visit the location to assess terrain, access, and anchor points
Setup and breakdown timeline that does not conflict with your event schedule or other vendor access needs
Evidence of public liability insurance with coverage appropriate for the number of guests

Questions to Ask

1
Can you provide a site visit and recommend the best tent type and orientation for our specific location?
2
What is included in the base price, and what are the costs for flooring, linings, lighting, and furniture?
3
How do you handle severe weather — what is the wind rating of the structure, and what is your contingency plan?
4
When does setup begin and end, and when does breakdown happen after the event?
5
Do you provide power generators, and what capacity do we need for lighting, catering, and a band or DJ?
6
Are portable luxury toilets available as part of your package, and how many do you recommend for our guest count?

Red Flags to Watch For

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No site visit offered before providing a quote — tent placement requires professional assessment of ground conditions and access
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No mention of structural certification, engineering compliance, or wind ratings
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Hidden costs for essential items (flooring, lighting, power) that are presented as optional but are actually necessary
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No severe-weather contingency plan or emergency protocols

Frequently Asked Questions

How much space do I need for a marquee wedding?

As a general rule, allow 1–1.5 square metres per guest for seated dining, plus additional space for the dance floor (minimum 5m x 5m for 100 guests), the bar, a catering prep area, and circulation. A 100-guest wedding with dinner, dancing, and a bar typically requires a marquee of at least 15m x 25m (375 sqm). Your marquee company will calculate the exact dimensions based on your layout preferences.

What if it rains on the day?

This is the advantage of a proper marquee — you are covered regardless of weather. Quality marquees are fully waterproof and can be fitted with sides, windows, and heating to handle any conditions. The key is choosing a reputable supplier with weather-rated structures and having a Plan B for the ceremony if it was planned outdoors. Most couples have the ceremony under the marquee and the reception in the same space with a layout change during cocktail hour.

Do I need to arrange my own toilets for a marquee wedding?

Yes, unless the marquee is erected next to a building with existing facilities. Luxury portable toilets (not standard construction-site units) are the standard for weddings. Plan for 1 toilet per 25 guests, with separate facilities for men and women. Many marquee companies can include luxury toilet trailers in their package.

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