Planning a tent wedding is definitely more involved than if you have a hotel reception. There are so many elements that are usually included in package deals that you’ll need to organise yourself. A long list is a must but oh, how it is worth it!
All the Little Things
Some tents and marquees can be hired alongside tables, chairs and other items, however a lot of companies just offer the service of the tent itself. Usually this includes flooring and some lighting, however everything else – and I mean everything – is up to you. This means linen, cutlery, toilets to name just a small percentage. Our top tip here would be to start off with a list, that will soon become your bible, on everything you need to remember.
Think about which of these things you will hire, borrow or buy. What would you like to keep for posterity and what would come included in another service you are paying for? For example, a lot of couples who have a marquee reception will hire caterers. There is usually an option to hire the tableware and linen from the same company. Have a browse at best options for price and convenience.
Facilities
Consider your guests when thinking about the facilities you have to hire with a marquee. If you have elderly guests make sure to provide some soft seating and think about what kind of toilets you hire! If you are having an outdoor wedding outside of summertime, consider what you will do if the heavens open. Maybe hiring a secondary add on tent would be a good spend of budget so that you have space options if it is a wet day.
Pots of Personality
A tent reception is really great if you want to make your reception your own. It is a complete – often white – blank canvas for you to go wild in! Consider décor that is easy to erect and take down again and that will fill the space as you wish. Think about what you can do yourself in the run up to the wedding and what you will want to be provided so as to not worry about it on the day.
