Choosing a Marquee
Marquees can be very expensive; follow personal recommendations and obtain a number of quotes. It is best to use a hire company that actually owns the marquees itself, rather than a sub-contractor.
- Marquee companies are at their busiest during the summer and should be booked six to seven months ahead of the wedding day. They can be booked nearer to the event for weddings in October-April.
- Frame marquees have no guy ropes and can be erected virtually anywhere.
- Pole and peg marquees vary from classic canvas to Raj tents. They need more space for the guy ropes and, while visually impressive, tend to come in more limited sizes.
- The marquee supplier should provide a proposed floor plan and work out the size required, based on the couple's requirements and the number of guests.
- Marquee companies will also quote on lighting, tables, chairs and linen, but there is usually no obligation for them to supply these.
- Provision should also be made for a reasonably sized catering tent.
- It important that the marquee company liaises with other suppliers - caterer, DJ, band etc - to discuss individual requirements, e.g. access, power supply.
- Many marquee companies include the cost of an on-site attendant in their quote; this is a sensible back up in case of emergency. If the company is local, then an attendant is not usually necessary.
- The quote must be carefully checked; delivery, set-up and dismantling times must be confirmed, along with travel costs, insurance and damage policies.
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