The most frequently asked question – What size marquee do I need?
Now this is an answer that depends on a number of factors. Each important factor will require a varying amount of space inside the marquee. And that is why we – at Universal Marquees – are here to help. We cover Marquees Hire in Devon, Somerset, Bristol and Bath.
The factors are –
- How many guests you are expecting
This is not only for the reception (meal) part of the wedding but also we would need to know if you are having more in the evening.
There are many ways of changing the size of the marquee with numbers and therefore altering costs. These include –
- The option of putting tables and chairs on the dance floor which can be cleared for the evening. (Personally this is not a preference of mine).
- Clearing away some tables and chairs from the marquee to create space for the evening guests (again not a preference of mine – the reason being is that it is better to have less movement and stress on the day and allow everybody to have their own chairs to take the weight off their feet in the evening).
- Having a straight traditional top table or keeping it as a round table as either option creates a different amount of space.
2. Any extras
Different parts of the marquee can be used for different functions. Each function will require different amounts of space and so change the size of the marquee. These items are –
- A dance floor
- A stage for the band
- Buffet tables to serve food
- A bar
(TIP – do not have the bar too close to the entrance or the dance floor as people (Men!!) like to hang out around the bar drinking and so will crowd these areas.)
- Any other entertainment item you may have – photo booth etc. We would need to know the dimensions of these items.
(TIP – when giving dimensions of alternative items don’t forget to give the height as well as this is a big consideration as to whether it will fit and also where in the marquee it can be situated.)
3. Whether you would like extra space for standing or a chilling out area
These spaces have are easy to work out as we work on the basis that you have a minimum of 7 square feet per person for a standing area. These areas are used for the initial part of the wedding – such as for drinks and canapés – and for later in the evening to chill out after a big meal!!
(TIP – If you have large numbers best not to include this area in the main marquee – without a reveal curtain or divide with the use of another marquee – as when you go to sit down you could be sitting and eating in a vast marquee with empty spaces which will lose a lot of ambience!!)
Some calculations to help with working out the size of the marquee -
- For a buffet event you will need a minimum of 8 square feet per person
- For a seated event you will need a minimum of 15 square feet per person
- Then you will need to add on space for extras like dance floors
My best advice is to ask the experts – us – at Universal Marquees – 01823 331191 or email at info@universalmarquees.co.uk who can answer any questions and will know exactly the right size for your marquee whatever the use or occasion. This will create the right setting and the right ambience for your special day.
For More Advice – Please look at my other Blogs. Any feedback would be appreciated so please some comments.
Thanks,
John.
Universal Marquees – Somerset, Devon, Bath and Bristol Marquee Hire – weddings, corporate events and parties.
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