How To Plan A Themed Event With The Right Marquee

You’ve been dreaming of the perfect themed event for months—an unforgettable gathering where every detail aligns seamlessly with your vision. But as the big day approaches, the pressure mounts, and you start thinking about creating the ideal atmosphere while ensuring everything goes smoothly.

Don’t worry. As experts at Cameo Event Hire, we know exactly what it takes to bring a themed event to life, and it all starts with hiring a marquee. But sometimes, choosing the right marquees for your themed event isn’t always as simple as picking the first one you find. That’s where our expert guidance through this blog post can help.

In this guide, we’ll share expert tips on choosing the perfect marquee, complementing it with the ideal event hire equipment, and creating a stunning atmosphere that your guests will remember.

If you still need an in-person consultation, call us on 020 8659 8000 or email us at . We will get back to you as soon as possible.

Tips To Plan Themed Event With The Right Marquees

Tip 1: Choose Your Event Theme

Before you think about hiring a marquee, you need to define the theme of your event. It will help you decide everything else like decor, activities and marquee as well. For example:

1. Weddings Themes

• Classic elegance
• Rustic charm
• Bohemian vibes
• Fairytale fantasy
• Vintage glamour
• Tropical paradise

2. Celebrations Themes (Birthday Parties, Anniversaries, Milestones)

• Masquerade ball
• Hollywood glam
• Circus fun
• Garden party
• Retro 80s/90s party

3. Corporate Events Themes

• Modern industrial
• Tech innovation
• Black & white gala
• Business casual garden party
• International cultural night
• Elegant cocktail reception

4. Public Events Themes (Festivals, Concerts, Fairs)

• Country fair
• Carnival extravaganza
• Music festival
• Cultural heritage celebration
• Sports or charity event
• Street food festival

Tip 2: Pick The Perfect Marquee Style

Once you decide on the theme of your event, picking the right marquee will become easy. Here’s a closer look at some event marquee styles:

1. Unlined Marquees

Unlined marquees are perfect for more casual or open events where a simple, yet spacious atmosphere is desired. These marquees are ideal for outdoor festivals, fairs, or casual parties like 18th or 21st birthday celebrations.

2. Lined Marquees

Lined marquees provide a more refined and formal look, perfect for elegant or sit-down events. The linings hide the PVC and frame structure, creating a sophisticated and comfortable atmosphere. They’re suitable for weddings, corporate events, and milestone celebrations.

3. Clear Marquees

Clear marquees are a fantastic option if your event is in a beautiful outdoor location, and you want to make the most of the view. With panoramic windows and clear roofs, these marquees offer a stunning view of the surroundings while protecting you from the elements. They are suitable for weddings, parties, sit-down meals, casual lunches, and functions.

Each marquee style offers something unique, so it’s essential to choose according to your event theme. To make a better selection, consider guest count, weather, event layout, and more. Read our in-depth guide to choosing the right marquee for your event. It will help you make an informed decision.

Tip 3: Enhance Your Theme With Decorative Elements And Marquee Features

Integrating the right decorative elements like flowers, lighting and furniture into your marquee is essential for bringing your theme to life. Here are some event decor ideas and inspiration to follow:

1. Lighting To Set The Mood

Lighting is a powerful tool in setting the mood and enhancing your theme. Depending on your event, you can choose from different lighting options:

• Chandeliers
• String Lights
• Spotlights and LED Lights

2. Furniture That Complements Your Theme

Tables and chairs are available in various styles to match your event’s elegance or casual vibe. Check with your event equipment service provider and hire the equipment that matches your theme. You can also choose fabrics and linens, such as themed tablecloths, chair covers, drapes, and table runners, to create an authentic feel for your event.

3. Floral Arrangements To Match Your Theme

Flowers are key to any event’s décor. Look for the right blooms to match your theme. For example:

• Tropical flowers
• Classic roses and wildflowers
• Customised floral centerpieces

4. Accessories To Add Personality

To make your event truly unique and entertaining, accessories with props and additional decor items:

• Themed backdrops
• Decorative lanterns
• Vintage signage
• Dance floor
• Bar and reception
• Catering equipment

Tip 4: Plan For Weather And Seasonal Considerations

Weather can be unpredictable, so preparing your marquee for any conditions is essential to ensure guest comfort and safety. Here’s how:

1. Weatherproofing

Ensure your marquee is securely anchored to withstand strong winds or rain. The walls and roofing should be made of waterproof and wind-resistant materials.

2. Climate Control

Hire heating equipment such as space or marquee heaters for winter events. Ensure proper ventilation or use air conditioning units for summer events to keep guests cool.

3. Flooring Options

Choose sturdy flooring to prevent muddy or uneven surfaces during rain. Popular options include wooden flooring, carpets, or raised platforms.

4. Seasonal Decor

Integrate seasonal elements into your decor. For example:

• Spring: Fresh florals, pastel colours, and garden-inspired decor.
• Summer: Bright colours, tropical themes, and open-sided marquees for airflow.
• Autumn: Warm tones, rustic decorations, and cosy lighting.
• Winter: Twinkling fairy lights, warm fabrics, and elegant chandeliers.

Tip 5: Collaborate With Vendors For A Seamless Event

Your vendors play a vital role in making your event a success. Work closely with them to ensure all details align with your vision.

1. Marquee Rental Company

Share your theme, guest count, and event layout with the marquee provider to ensure they recommend the most suitable size and style. Discuss add-ons like dance floors, staging, and additional accessories they can provide.

2. Catering Services

Collaborate with your caterer to design a menu that complements the theme. For example:

• A BBQ menu for a rustic theme.
• A canapé menu for a black-tie event.

3. Entertainment Providers

Hire entertainers who align with your theme, such as:

• A live jazz band for a vintage glamour event.
• A magician or acrobat for a circus-themed party.
• A DJ with a curated playlist for a retro 80s party.

“At Cameo Event Hire, we not only provide exceptional marquee and event hire services but also connect you with trusted local suppliers, including printers, entertainers, caterers, photographers, travel agents, makeup artists, and florists—everything you need to create your perfect event!”

Tip 6: Focus On Guest Experience

1. Seating Arrangements

Ensure enough seating for all guests in a style that matches the event’s formality (e.g., banquet-style for formal dinners, lounge-style for casual gatherings).

2. Entertainment And Activities

Incorporate interactive elements like:

• A themed photo booth with props.
• Lawn games for outdoor events.
• A dance floor for evening parties.

3. Accessibility

Plan for easy access to the marquee, including ramps or pathways for guests with mobility challenges.

4. Restrooms

If your venue doesn’t have restrooms nearby, arrange for portable luxury restroom facilities to maintain guest comfort.

Tip 7: Plan For Logistics And Staffing

1. Event Timeline

Create a detailed schedule for the event, including setup, guest arrival, meals, entertainment, and tear-down.

2. Staff Requirements

Hire professional waitstaff, bartenders, and caterers to serve food and drinks seamlessly. Consider a dedicated event planner or on-site coordinator to oversee the day.

3. Power Supply

Confirm the power requirements for lighting, heating, catering equipment, and entertainment, and arrange generators if necessary.

Tip 8: Budget Wisely

Planning a themed event with a marquee can be cost-effective if you budget carefully.

1. Prioritise Essentials

Allocate more budget to marquee hire, decor, and catering, as these are critical to the event’s overall success.

2. Compare Quotes

Get quotes from multiple vendors to ensure competitive pricing without compromising quality.

3. DIY Where Possible

Consider DIY options for smaller elements like table settings or signage to save costs.

4. Hire Instead Of Buy

Hire marquee, decor, furniture, lighting and other event equipment to reduce expenses and ensure professional-quality pieces.

Conclusion!

So, that’s how you can plan a perfectly themed event by choosing the right marquees and following the tips mentioned above. Use these event decor ideas and inspiration to impress your guests and make your event unforgettable.

For expert advice, marquee hire, and event equipment, contact Cameo Event Hire on 020 8659 8000 or email us at ! Just as we’ve impressed countless clients with our exceptional service and quality, we can help make your event unforgettable, too!