The Complete Marquee Wedding Planning Checklist

Marquee weddings offer something no fixed venue ever can — total creative freedom. You choose the location, the layout, the aesthetic, and every supplier. But that freedom comes with a longer planning list. Here is what we walk every marquee client through before a single deposit is paid.

The land. Whether you are using family land or hiring a private estate, the ground must be assessed early. Is it level? Is the access wide enough for delivery vehicles? Is there nearby parking for guests? These questions determine whether your dream location is actually viable.

Permissions and licences. Depending on the size and timing of your wedding, you may need a Temporary Event Notice (TEN) from the local council for alcohol service and amplified music after 11pm. Some venues also require noise assessments. We handle all of this on behalf of our clients.

Power. This is the single most underestimated element of a marquee wedding. Even a modest celebration needs a 60kVA generator running catering, lighting, sound and heating. Larger events often need two generators with a backup. Always allow for 20% more power than you think you'll need.

Water and toilets. Luxury loos are non-negotiable for any wedding over 50 guests. Budget £1,500–£4,000 depending on guest numbers and trailer specification. Catering will also need a clean water supply, which usually means a bowser if you are not near mains.

Flooring and weather contingency. A solid floor inside the marquee is essential — never compromise here. You also need to plan for rain on arrival and departure: covered walkways from the car park, parasols for the welcome drinks, and a clear plan for what happens if a summer storm rolls in.

Heating and cooling. British weather is unpredictable in every season. Heaters for spring and autumn, and good cross-ventilation for July and August. The cost of getting this wrong is your guests being too cold to dance — or too hot to eat.

Setup and breakdown windows. Marquees typically take two to three days to install and one to two days to dismantle. Build that into your land hire and accommodation arrangements early — the time pressure on the dismantle day catches many couples off guard.

Insurance. Wedding insurance is essential for any marquee build, and most marquee companies will also require evidence of cover before installation begins. Budget around £150–£400 for a comprehensive policy.

Marquee weddings are extraordinary — but they are also genuinely complex projects. If you are planning one, work with a planner who has built dozens before. The difference shows in every detail on the day. For more on choosing the right site, see our guide on how to choose a marquee wedding venue, or explore our Full Wedding Planning service.