Marquee Hire FAQ

What Size Marquee?

Firstly, consider what you are using the marquee for, taking into particular account the number of guests. Allow 1.125sqm/person for a seated dinner at round tables, 0.75sqm/person for a standing reception, 0.5sqm/person for a dance floor space.

Secondly, consider the space you have available. Marquees generally come in fixed widths. 6m, 9m 12m, 15m, 18m up to 50m for the really big ones. Frame marquees or (clear-span marquees) have bays of 3m, so can be built in multiples of 3m, but tension tents, larger clearpans and other structures have differing bay lengths.

What Type of Marquee / Temporary Structure?

We supply many different structures, always selected according to the specific needs of each individual client. Any struture selected must be practical, but this should not deter from getting the aesthetics right. Clearspan marquees are almost always practical, but other marquee styles, including traditional (pole marquees), more modern tension tents, and other more unusual structures such as saddlespans, are absolutely perfect in the right setting.

Each have there own disadvantages and advantages - we will work with you to determine the most suitable structure accoring to practicality and taste. There are several key factors:

1. What size area you have available

2. Type of surface (grass, hard-standing etc)

3. Time of year

4. Overall event style/theme

5. Interior decor, theming and layout

Grass of Hard Standing?

Marquees can be built on virtually any surface. Grass is easiest, and offers the greatest possible range of structures, but most hardstanding surfaces can be easily built on.

How long does it take to put up a marquee?

Depending on the complexity of the job, the size of structure, and various other factors, anywhere from a couple of hours to many days! We will be able to advise on build times.

Can a marquee be built on an inclined slope / uneven ground?

Yes! Very gentle slopes are normally require no special work, slightly steeper slopes/unveven ground often needs a ring-beam floor. For more severe slopes and terrain, a full scaffold stage may be required.

Are marquees only suitable for summer events?

No - We use marquees for events all year round - don't worry, heating is always available!

Do we need a generator?

We will carry out a detailed assessment of your event power requirements. We will only allow safe, reliable power supplies. Larger events normally require generators, unless there is a nearby 3ph power supply (63-125amp). We may also specify a second generator combined with an AMF panel. (Stand-by generator)

Can a marquee be directly attached to a building or other structure?

Yes, although care and consideration must be taken with allowing for guttering etc.

I want a stage for a band in a Marquee - is this possible?

Yes - Absolutely! We use an excellent system - litedeck - to create raised areas. We may need to use a marquee on taller legs (3m) to allow a stage of good height.

Marquees are often lit by tacky gold effect chandeliers - can I have something more modern?

Absolutely! We encourage the use of lighting effects. We use a lot of theatrical lanterns - profiles, fresnels, Par Cans to create all manner of lighting effects. We also love to light outside areas - trees, buildings (churches especially!)

Should I shop around for quotes?

Yes, by all means - however, always ensure you are comparing like for like, both in terms of quality and structure.

What style of interior can I have?

Anything you like. We encourage you to use your imagination and come to us with an idea. We really enjoy working with creative/imaginative clients to turn their dreams into reality - just about anything is possible.