Marquees - What you need to know...

The first and most important thing to bear in mind is that the floor has a waterproof membrane. The most professional finish can be achieved by using hard, leveled flooring. This is also important if the ground slopes or is uneven. It is an expensive option though.

The linings of a marquee can be decorative or standard and it is even possible to incorporate a starlit ceiling and windows or clear sides that make the marquee feel larger and more al fresco. There needn’t be too much concern over colour as flowers and other decorations will provide this so don’t choose an elaborate marquee if the decorations are already elaborate enough.

A normal domestic power system is unlikely to be able to cope with the power needed by caterers as well as the lighting and music systems so a generator and back-up emergency generator will be required. The generator will be bulky and unsightly so a suitable hiding place should be found and extra cabling brought so this can be possible. Remember that, unless it is a fairly quiet generator, it will cause a constant humming that may disturb the speeches. Ask before-hand if the suppliers are able to provide a super-silent generator. Also remember to make sure the insurance policy covers the generator as they are expensive to replace.

Marquee companies should also be able to provide any lighting that is required in order to create certain atmospheres as well as furniture such as tables, chairs and linen. This is, however, not obligatory as the couple may wish to provide there own or have found them cheaper elsewhere.

Placement of the marquee is important as there must be enough room for the catering vans and portable toilet suppliers to get to the entrance of the marquee in order to set up. There must also be space for portable toilets to be placed outside the marquee. The marquee company should know of suitable portaloo suppliers. There must be one per 40 guests and one for staff. Ideally they should be situated next to a water supply. Any guy ropes around the marquee should be well-lit to avoid accidents.

A catering tent may need to be placed next to the main marquee so the caterers can prepare, cook and clear dishes on site. It is also worth looking into a thermostatically controlled ducted heating and air-conditioning option as well as lockable doors. Check if the marquee company includes an on-site attendant in their quote. If the company is local and can guarantee a quick turn around time then an attendant won’t be necessary.

The marquee company, caterers and any other suppliers should all meet on the same day at the venue to discuss any requirements they may need. The quote should also be discussed in detail at this point. Delivery, set-up and dismantling times should be checked at the same time as travel costs, insurance and damage policies.