How Much Does a Marquee Wedding Cost in the UK?

If you’re dreaming of an outdoor wedding surrounded by nature, a marquee wedding could be the perfect choice. Marquees offer flexibility, allowing you to create a bespoke celebration that truly reflects your style. But how much does a marquee wedding actually cost in the UK? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the costs for different guest numbers and explore the factors that can impact your budget.

Marquee Wedding Cost for 50 Guests

For an intimate wedding with 50 guests, you can expect to pay between £2,000 and £4,000 for small marquee hire. This price typically includes the marquee structure, basic lighting, and flooring. However, additional costs to consider are:

• Furniture hire (tables and chairs): £200 – £500
• Catering: £1,500 – £3,000 (£30 – £60 per head)
• Decorations: £500 – £1,500
• Toilets: £300 – £600

The total cost for a marquee wedding with 50 guests could range from £4,500 to £9,600. For more information on marquee sizes for 50 guests, read our guide on what size marquee you need for different guest numbers.

Marquee Wedding Cost for 100 Guests

A wedding with 100 guests will require a larger marquee, increasing the base cost to £3,500 – £6,000. Additional expenses include:

• Furniture hire: £400 – £1,000
• Catering: £3,000 – £6,000 (£30 – £60 per head)
• Decorations: £1,000 – £3,000
• Toilets: £600 – £1,200

The total cost for a marquee wedding with 100 guests could range from £8,500 to £17,200.

Marquee Wedding Cost for 150 Guests

For a larger wedding with 150 guests, marquee hire costs can range from £5,000 to £8,000. Additional costs include:

• Furniture hire: £600 – £1,500
• Catering: £4,500 – £9,000 (£30 – £60 per head)
• Decorations: £1,500 – £4,500
• Toilets: £900 – £1,800

The total cost for a marquee wedding with 150 guests could range from £12,500 to £24,800.

Marquee Wedding Cost for 200+ Guests

For weddings with 200 or more guests, large marquee hire costs can start from £7,000 and go up to £12,000 or more. Additional expenses include:

• Furniture hire: £800 – £2,000
• Catering: £6,000 – £12,000+ (£30 – £60+ per head)
• Decorations: £2,000 – £6,000+
• Toilets: £1,200 – £2,400

The total cost for a marquee wedding with 200+ guests could range from £17,000 to £34,400+.

Factors That Impact Marquee Wedding Costs

While the above estimates provide a general idea of marquee wedding costs, several factors can impact your final budget:

1. Marquee Type: Different marquee styles, such as traditional pole marquees, frame marquees, or tipis, can vary in price.
2. Location: The cost of hiring a venue for your marquee can significantly impact your budget. Prices can range from a few hundred pounds to several thousand, depending on the location and amenities provided. If you have a suitable garden or outdoor space, you may be able to save on venue costs by hosting a garden party marquee hire.
3. Decor and Styling: Your chosen theme and the level of decoration will affect costs. Elaborate floral arrangements, bespoke lighting, and luxury furnishings can quickly add up.
4. Catering: Food and drink costs can vary greatly depending on your chosen menu, service style (e.g., sit-down meal, buffet, or food trucks), and whether you opt for a cash bar or open bar.
5. Time of Year: Peak wedding season (typically summer months) can result in higher marquee hire prices and increased competition for suppliers.

Saving Money on Your Marquee Wedding

While marquee weddings can be more expensive than traditional venue weddings, there are ways to save money without compromising on your vision:

• Choose an off-peak date: Opting for a weekday or off-season wedding can result in lower marquee hire costs and more availability from suppliers.
• DIY decor: Get creative with your decor by making your own centerpieces, signage, and styling elements.
• Hire a smaller marquee: If you have a tight budget, consider inviting fewer guests and hiring a smaller marquee to reduce costs.
• Opt for a less expensive catering style: Choosing a buffet or food truck instead of a formal sit-down meal can help you save on catering costs.
• Shop around for suppliers: Get quotes from multiple suppliers to ensure you’re getting the best value for your money.

Planning Your Marquee Wedding

Planning a marquee wedding can be a complex process, with many elements to consider. To ensure a smooth and stress-free experience, consider working with a professional marquee hire company like Dynamic Marquees. Our experienced team can guide you through the planning process, helping you create the wedding of your dreams while staying within your budget. For more tips on planning your marquee wedding, read our complete guide to planning the perfect outdoor wedding with a marquee.

FAQs

Can I hire a marquee for a festival or corporate event?

Yes, marquees are versatile structures that can be used for various events, including festival marquee hire and corporate marquee events. Dynamic Marquees offers marquee hire services for a wide range of occasions.

What surfaces can I lay a marquee on?

Marquees can be erected on various surfaces, including grass, concrete, and hard standing. However, the surface type may impact the setup process and the type of anchoring required. For more information, read our guide on what surfaces you can lay a marquee on.

How do I put up a marquee?

Putting up a marquee involves several steps, including assembling the frame, attaching the roof and walls, and securing the structure. For a detailed, step-by-step guide on how to put up a marquee, read our ultimate guide to putting up a marquee.

By understanding the costs involved in a marquee wedding and exploring ways to save money, you can create a stunning celebration that reflects your unique style and personality. With careful planning and the right support, your marquee wedding will be an unforgettable experience for you and your guests.