What Is the Cost of a Marquee Wedding?
With their unique charm and flexibility, Marquee weddings have become a sought-after choice for couples. This guide aims to explain the expenses involved, providing a detailed look at each aspect of a marquee wedding and its associated costs. This comprehensive breakdown will assist in planning a budget that aligns with your dream wedding.
Wedding Marquee Hire Cost
Hiring a wedding marquee is a major part of your budget and varies depending on the size and type. Here's a breakdown of the approximate wedding marquee hire costs based on different sizes:
Small Marquee
- Typical Size: 3m x 6m to 4m x 8m (for up to 50 guests)
- Estimated Cost: £300 - £600
- Suitable For: Intimate gatherings, small ceremonies
Medium Marquee
- Typical Size: 6m x 12m to 9m x 12m (for 50-100 guests)
- Estimated Cost: £600 - £1,200
- Suitable For: Average-sized weddings, offering space for dining and a small dance area
Large Marquee
- Typical Size: 9m x 18m to 12m x 24m (for 100-150 guests)
- Estimated Cost: £1,200 - £2,500
- Suitable For: Larger weddings, with ample space for dining, dancing, and additional features like a bar or lounge area
Extra-Large Marquee
- Typical Size: 12m x 30m and upwards (for 150-200+ guests)
- Estimated Cost: £2,500 - £5,000+
- Suitable For: Huge weddings, accommodating extensive guest lists, large dance floors, and multiple zones (dining, lounging, entertainment)
Venue Costs
Selecting the perfect location for your wedding marquee is crucial. Site hire fees vary widely, usually between £1,000 and £3,000, depending on the location's prestige and facilities offered. Some venues may include necessary amenities like electricity and water, while others might require additional investment for these essentials.
Catering and Beverages
Food and drink are at the heart of any wedding celebration. Marquee weddings offer flexibility in catering choices, with costs averaging £40 to £100 per guest. This price can fluctuate based on whether you opt for a buffet, a formal sit-down meal, or alternative catering solutions like food trucks. Remember to factor in alcohol and bar service costs, and ensure you account for any extra catering equipment hire if it's not included with your marquee package.
Furniture and Decor
Furnishing and decorating your marquee to match your vision is another important consideration. Hiring tables, chairs, and linens may cost between £200 and £600, depending on your style preferences. The decor, including ambient lighting, elegant centrepieces, and drapery, can add £500 to £2,000 to your expenses. These elements are vital in transforming a simple marquee into a stunning wedding venue.
Entertainment
Entertainment is vital to setting the tone for your celebration. Costs for a DJ typically range from £200 to £1,000, while live bands can be upwards of £1,500. You might also consider additional entertainment options like photo booths, games, or performers, which will add to your overall budget.
Photography and Videography
Capturing memories of your day is essential. Professional photography and videography services in the UK generally cost between £1,000 and £2,500 each. Prices vary based on the reputation and experience of the service provider, and additional services like drone footage or special edits can increase these costs.
Wedding Attire and Beauty
The cost of wedding attire, including the bride's dress and groom's suit, can range from £1,000 to £3,000, with beauty services like hair and makeup adding several hundred pounds more. These costs can vary widely depending on personal choices and designer selections.
Flowers and Floristry
Flowers play a significant role in setting the aesthetic of your wedding. Budgeting £500 to £2,000 for floral arrangements, including bouquets, buttonholes, and venue decorations, is advisable. The final cost will depend on the types of flowers chosen and their seasonality.
Transport and Accommodation
Providing transportation for the bridal party and guests can add anywhere from a few hundred to over a thousand pounds to your budget. Additionally, if you have guests coming from afar, consider the cost of nearby accommodations as part of your wedding planning.
Invitations and Stationery
The design and printing of invitations and other stationery typically cost between £200 and £800, not forgetting the postage fees. The style and quality of the stationery, as well as the number of guests, will influence this cost.
Wedding Planner/Coordinator (Optional)
Hiring a wedding planner can be a significant but worthwhile expense, particularly for a marquee wedding. Full-service planning may cost between £3,000 and £5,000, while day-of coordination might be around £500 to £1,500. A planner can alleviate much of the stress of organising a wedding and ensure everything runs smoothly on the day.
Additional Expenses
Other expenses to consider include wedding insurance, which offers financial protection and peace of mind for a few hundred pounds. If your venue lacks certain facilities, you might need to hire luxury portable restrooms (around £500) or a generator for power needs (approximately £200 to £800).
Additional Considerations
- Wedding Insurance: While mentioned briefly, it's important to stress the value of it. It covers unforeseen circumstances, from vendor cancellations to weather-related issues. Costs for insurance vary, but it's a small price to pay for peace of mind.
- Contingency Budget: Always set aside a contingency fund, typically 10-15% of your total budget. This fund covers unexpected expenses or last-minute additions, ensuring you're prepared for any situation.
- Seasonal Variations: The time of year can significantly impact costs. Marquee weddings in peak summer months may be more expensive than those in spring or autumn. Consider an off-peak season for potential savings.
- DIY Elements: To save costs, consider incorporating DIY elements where feasible. From handmade invitations to self-styled decor, these personal touches can reduce expenses while adding a unique charm to your wedding.
- Negotiating with Vendors: Feel free to negotiate with vendors. Many are willing to tailor their services to fit your budget, especially if you're booking multiple services from them.
- Guest List Size: The number of guests directly impacts your budget, especially for catering and furniture hire. Carefully consider your guest list to ensure it aligns with your financial plan.
Long-Term Planning
Start planning early to spread out expenses and avoid last-minute financial strain. Booking vendors in advance can also secure early-bird rates and better deals.
A marquee wedding presents a wonderful opportunity to create a personalised and memorable experience. While costs can vary widely, typically ranging from £15,000 to £40,000 or more, careful planning and budgeting can ensure your day is both beautiful and financially manageable. It’s essential to prioritise what's most important to you and allocate your budget accordingly.
If you're searching "marquee hire near me" then give us a call right away. Our team of professionals are ready to give you swift assistance. Marquee Hire Liverpool is your go to marquee hire company offering a wide variety of marquee types to cater your specific needs. Do not forget to save our number to easily reach us in the future!
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