Time does fly when you’re planning a big event, and sometimes, people only realise the importance of marquee hire when the clock is already ticking. Suddenly, they’re frantically typing “last-minute marquee hire near me”, hoping to find a quick solution on Google.
“Our event is right around the corner and we haven’t sorted a marquee, can you help us?” As marquee hire experts serving London and Essex, this familiar plea is one we hear all too often. It raises one of the questions we’re asked most frequently: how far in advance should you book a marquee for your event?
In this blog, we’ll answer that and more to help you avoid last-minute stress and secure the perfect marquee hire for your special occasion.
Why Hiring a Marquee Early is a Game-Changer for Your Event?
Have you ever tried to nab a table at the trendiest restaurant in town on a Friday night? Well, booking a marquee last minute can feel just as challenging. It’s possible, but not without a lot of luck and compromise. The best marquees hire, those with all the bells and whistles, get snapped up months in advance.
Peak season in the UK typically runs from late spring through early autumn, with a flurry of activity around summer weekends, bank holidays, and the festive period. During these times, demand can outstrip supply, particularly for reputable marquee companies.
How Far in Advance Should You Book a Marquee?
Here is the golden rule: the earlier, the better. But let’s break it down a bit.
Weddings: These events are often planned a year or more in advance. If you’re tying the knot between April and September, aim to book your marquee hire at least 9-12 months in advance. This gives you the best shot at securing your dream setup and allows plenty of time for site visits and tweaks to your plans.
Corporate Events: For large-scale corporate events, 6-9 months is a sensible window. This gives your team and the marquee hire company time to coordinate logistics, branding, and any special requirements.
Private Parties: Smaller gatherings or parties can sometimes be sorted with 3-6 months’ notice, but if you’ve got your heart set on a particular date or marquee style, don’t hang about.
Bear in mind, if your event falls during a popular time, like a bank holiday weekend or Christmas, you’ll want to add a couple of months to those timelines.
What are the Benefits of Getting Ahead of the Marquee Curve?
So, why bother booking early? Let’s have a gander at the perks:
Wider Choice
The earlier you book, the more options you’ll have. This means you can pick the marquee that fits your vision, whether it’s a classic canvas, a clearspan for those panoramic views, or something bespoke.
Time for Planning
Early booking gives you breathing room for site visits, consultations, and any necessary adjustments. You’ll have time to think about extras like heating, lighting, or a swanky bar area.
Better Rates
Some companies offer early-bird discounts or are more flexible on pricing when you book well in advance. Plus, you’re less likely to get stung by last-minute surcharges.
Smooth Coordination
Sorting your marquee early means you can coordinate other suppliers, without the stress of shifting dates or compromising on your dream team.
Top Tips for Securing Your Ideal Marquee Hire in London
If you’re new to the world of marquees, and Marquee hire, here’s a quick checklist to help you get started:
- Before booking a marquee, you must know your numbers. Have a rough idea of your guest list. This helps determine the size and style of marquee hire you’ll need.
- Pick your date and a backup. Flexibility can help, but the sooner you lock in your date, the better.
- Scout your site. Is your garden flat? Is there easy access for vehicles? These details matter, so have a think before you call.
- List your must-haves. Do you need a dance floor? Extra space for a band? Heating or air con? Jot these down.
- And ask questions. Don’t be shy. Ask your marquee provider about their experience, what’s included, and how they handle tricky weather.
What to Have Ready Before You Enquire
When you reach out to a marquee hire company, having a few details to hand will speed things along:
- Event date and location
- Estimated guest numbers
- Type of event
- Any special requirements (e.g., wheelchair access, catering tent, etc.)
The more info you can give, the easier it’ll be for the team to suggest the perfect setup.
If you’re planning an event, why not chat with one of our experts at Dynamic Marquees?
We can help you:
- Pick a marquee that gives your guests plenty of space to relax.
- Choose the marquee style that fits the mood you want.
- Find the best location for setting up your marquee.
- Ensure every detail matches your vision for a smooth, memorable event.
Why Dynamic Marquees is the Go-To in London and Essex?
Dynamic Marquees has built a sterling reputation across London and Essex, and for good reason. We’re known for our attention to detail, friendly team, and a portfolio of events that range from intimate garden parties to lavish weddings and corporate galas. It’s no wonder we’ve been voted top in the area, with glowing testimonials to boot.
Our clients rave about our team’s flexibility and the way our marquee hire experts go the extra mile. We can help you plan around the unpredictable British weather and suggest clever layouts to make the most of your space.
Wrapping Up: Don’t Leave It Too Late
In a nutshell, booking your marquee early is a no-brainer. It gives you more choice, less stress, and a better chance of pulling off the event you’ve been dreaming of. With Dynamic Marquees on your side, you’ll be in safe hands, from the first phone call to the last dance.
So, if you’re planning an event in London or Essex, get in touch with us today and secure your spot. After all, the early bird catches the marquee!
