Planning a marquee wedding offers so much flexibility because you’re creating a celebration from the ground up. If you value an experience where every decision can be made bespoke, you will love the creative freedom that comes with planning a marquee wedding. The endless possibilities of designing a marquee space will feel exciting, but you should still never overlook how your guests will feel during your celebration.
At LMJ Weddings, we believe your guests’ comfort and enjoyment should be just as thoughtfully planned as your tablescape or decor. After all, a wedding isn’t just about how it looks, it’s about how it feels. And we want your guests to walk away saying, “That was the best wedding I’ve ever been to.”
After years of experience planning one-of-a-kind, unforgettable marquee weddings, here are our five must-haves to make sure your marquee wedding is as memorable for your guests:
1. A warm welcome
Marquee weddings often take place in hidden countryside spaces, private gardens, or rural estates which can sometimes make getting there somewhat difficult for guests. Start the guest experience with beautifully designed signage that directs them to parking with clear walkways to your ceremony and reception spaces. A welcome sign will let them know they have arrived at the right place and pair this with a smiling usher and even a refreshing welcome drink, your guests have been looked after from the very start.
2. Comfort solutions
Think stylish relaxed lounge areas, blankets for when the temperature drops, or even flip-flops for the dance floor. For outdoor weddings, it’s worth preparing for both sunshine and rain as the British weather is always unpredictable. Parasols, hand fans, or even a few well-placed umbrellas can go a long way in keeping your guests feeling comfortable in shaded areas during the summer.
We often build in contingency comforts that don’t compromise your aesthetic – think baskets of cosy throws in your brand colours or elegant parasols that double as photo props.
3. Seamless wedding flow
One of the biggest challenges with marquee weddings is managing the transition between ceremony, drinks, dinner, and dancing – especially if these are in separate areas or structures. It’s important that guests never feel like they’re waiting around or unsure of what’s next.
With an order of the day sign guests will know what event will be happening next so they aren;t surprised. We also create a detailed wedding timeline to plan each movement of the day so that there’s always a sense of momentum – perhaps a live acoustic set as guests walk to dinner, or a surprise cocktail moment as they exit the ceremony.
4. Well-planned facilities
Beautiful restrooms might not be the most glamorous part of wedding planning, but they make a huge difference! Invest in high-quality restroom trailers with good lighting, mirrors, and even a mini basket of essentials – hand cream, hair spray, plasters. Your guests will notice the extra thought and care. If you are planning an Autumn or Winter wedding then a coat-check area will be very useful for guests and ensure a seamless entry to your wedding. A well signposted Taxi pick-up area will make end of the night stress-free for both taxi driver and guests making sure there are no frustrating moments.
5. Thoughtful finish
The final moments of your wedding might not be your first thing you plan, but tired guests want to be looked after! So offering late night snacks of comfort food always goes down a treat – and pair this with a hot drinks station you guests will leave your wedding happy. If you want to help transport your guests safely back to their accommodation, planning pre-booked shuttle buses or taxis is always a great idea.
At LMJ Weddings, we believe guest experience doesn’t have to mean sacrificing your vision – it’s about enhancing it. With careful planning and a little creativity, you can host a marquee wedding that feels just as incredible for your guests as it does for you.
If you’re dreaming of a wedding that’s an unforgettable day both visually and emotionally, let’s chat. I’d love to help you design and plan your beautifully bespoke day.
Wedding Suppliers:
Photographer: @foxandbearphoto
Marquee: @skyemarquees
Hair: @lindseymcelmeelbridalhair
Makeup: @lizziemakeup
Dress: @elliesandersonbridal
Flowers: @vivaldiflowers
Linen: @colouredlinenhire
Catering: @marcmacauleycatering
