Over the years, I’ve had the pleasure of planning many marquee weddings and events, and I have to say I absolutely love them. Marquees offer the perfect blank canvas (excuse the pun) for creativity and personal style. However, with so many different types, styles and designs available, it can be overwhelming to know where to begin. While the best marquee for you depends on factors like the space, access, ground levels and overall wedding aesthetic, this guide will help you get started.
Clear Span Marquees
At first glance, you might think, "A marquee is a marquee, right?" There's more variety than meets the eye! Let’s start with the clear span marquee. This type of structure is built with an aluminium frame, meaning it’s pole-free inside, offering more flexibility for layouts and decor.
Clear span marquees are highly modular, making them a great fit for most spaces. Plus, they don’t require pegs, so they work beautifully on solid surfaces. A growing trend is using clear roofs and sides, either in PVC or glass, to bring the outdoors in. While they may not have the same romantic exterior as their traditional counterparts, you can create stunning interiors if you're willing to invest in decor.
Top tip: Make sure your marquee provider offers high-quality lining options. Clean, well-maintained linings set the tone for your event and are key to nailing that perfect aesthetic.
Traditional Pole Marquees
For a classic, English countryside vibe, you can’t beat the charm of a traditional pole marquee. This style is anchored with poles and pegged into the ground, so it's better suited to softer surfaces like grass. One of the biggest draws? You can roll the sides up during the day to embrace the outdoors, then drop them down for a cosy evening setting.
If you’re going for a vintage or rustic look, a traditional pole marquee can be a perfect choice and you can incorporate the poles into your decor, draping them with flowers or greenery can turn them into a lovely feature.
Be mindful of the material sailcloth or canvas is the gold standard for this type of marquee—these materials allow sunlight to filter through, creating a bright and airy feel. Be wary of cheaper polyester or PVC alternatives, as they don’t offer the same ambiance.
Pro tip: Opt for wooden poles and traditional rope guy lines rather than metal and synthetic options. If you're investing in the classic look, it’s worth paying attention to these finer details.
Sperry, Raj, Indian, and Moroccan Tents
You might also come across names like Sperry tents or Raj tents. A Sperry tent is a type of pole tent made by the American company Sperry, known for its elegant sailcloth design. On the other hand, Raj or Indian/Moroccan tents tend to feature intricate fabrics, colourful patterns, and unique detailing, adding a vibrant touch to your event. These tents are perfect if you’re looking to incorporate cultural elements or want something a bit more ornate.
Tipis
Tipis are cone-shaped tents, known for their distinctive smoke flaps at the top. While the structure's shape can reduce headroom in certain areas, they create a cosy, intimate vibe, especially with a fire pit at the centre. This makes tipis ideal for autumn weddings or events where warmth and atmosphere are key.
Yurts
If you’re after something with a bit more structure, a yurt might be the answer. These timber-framed, circular tents have a unique look, both inside and out, thanks to their visible wooden framework. They offer an open, pole-free space, which can be more flexible for layouts, however their aesthetic may not suit every wedding theme.
Stretch Tents
For a more modern take, stretch tents are an innovative option. They’re made from a single piece of waterproof fabric, stretched tight over an area and secured with freestanding poles. You can choose to have the sides open or closed, offering flexibility based on weather and mood. Their sculptural look makes them a contemporary and stylish choice.
GLASS MARQUEE
A glass marquee is a show-stopper, blending elegance and modern innovation. Its modular design and seamless blend of classic architecture with cutting-edge fabrication make it the perfect setting for a luxurious wedding or high-end event. The transparency of the structure allows the surrounding scenery to shine, creating an unforgettable backdrop for your special day.
Marquee weddings and events are my favourite and they allow you to design your own space from the ground up. Whether you’re looking for something traditional, rustic, or modern, there’s a marquee style to match your vision. Hopefully, this guide has made the world of marquees a little less daunting and a lot more exciting.