To allow the designer to tailor the marquee to your requirements and to save time it is worth considering the following prior to the initial meeting:
- Have an approximate idea of numbers
- Small wedding marquees (20‐100) are often more economical to buy rather than hire.
‐ Lightweight ‘party tents’ that use 230g/m2 roof material are the cheapest option.
‐ Marquees that use at least 480g/m2 roof material are better quality and will last longer.
‐ Linings are starting to become available for these tents and marquees
‐ Tents and Marquees with flame retardant material are advisable - For large weddings (300+) consider a wedding planner:
‐ Large scale organising can become a full time job
‐ Wedding planners have contacts for other services - Ask around for personal recommendations of marquee hirers.
- Try to keep it local
‐ To avoid paying a premium for travelling time
‐ To ensure a quick response in the event of a problem (very rare!) - Get at least 3 quotations for differing designs and ideas as well as costs. You can always return to your preferred hirer with an alternative design.
- If you have previously seen a theme or style you like, obtain pictures for the hirer to view.
- Would you prefer a traditional canvas marquee with centre poles and guy ropes, or a modern frame marquee?
- Find out if there are any underground pipes or cables in the desired location.