Marquee weddings and private parties offer something truly special—complete flexibility, a sense of occasion and the chance to create a completely bespoke experience. But with that freedom comes a greater level of responsibility and inevitably, some hidden costs. Unlike traditional venues, a marquee is essentially a blank canvas. Every element, from power and flooring to toilets and lighting must be considered and arranged. It’s one of the reasons working with an experienced planner is so valuable—we know what to expect and how to plan for the details that might otherwise be overlooked.

If you’re considering hosting a marquee celebration, whether at home or on a private estate, here are the often-unexpected costs you’ll need to factor into your plans:

Generator hire and backup power
Luxury toilet facilities
External and pathway lighting
Flooring and wet weather contingency
Trackway for access and parking
Furniture and catering equipment hire
Catering tents and service areas
Set-up and breakdown time
Waste disposal and site management
Sound and entertainment logistics
Licensing and event insurance
Staff overtime and extended service hours
Contingency budget for last-minute needs

Generator hire and backup power
Unlike a venue, a marquee doesn't come with built-in power. A generator will be needed to supply electricity for lighting, catering, entertainment, and more. It’s also wise to factor in a backup generator to prevent any disruption if the main one fails.

Luxury toilet facilities
There are no in-house restrooms in a field or garden, so high-quality toilet trailers will need to be hired. The more refined the experience, the higher the cost—especially if you need multiple units for a larger guest list. or multi day events.

External and pathway lighting
It’s easy to focus on lighting inside the marquee, but the outside matters just as much. Think lanterns or festoons for walkways, lighting for car parks, and practical solutions for paths leading to loos and catering areas. This ensures safety and enhances the atmosphere.

Flooring and wet weather contingency
Matting may be sufficient in dry, warm weather, but if the forecast changes or the ground is uneven, hard flooring or carpet may become essential. This is one of the most common last-minute upgrades, so always factor it in early.

Trackway for access and parking
Wet weather or soft ground can wreak havoc with supplier vehicles and guest parking. Trackway provides a solid surface for driving and is invaluable in protecting lawns or fields from damage.

Furniture and catering equipment hire
Everything within the marquee must be hired in. That includes dining tables, chairs, bar counters, lounge furniture, and even glassware. These costs can mount up quickly depending on the size and style of your event.

Catering tents and service areas
Caterers need their own dedicated, fully equipped area for food prep and service. This typically means a separate catering tent, flooring, lighting, water access, ovens, and refrigeration, all of which come at an additional cost.

Waste disposal and site management
Once the party’s over, someone needs to manage rubbish collection and site clearance. Some marquee providers include this, others don’t—so it’s important to clarify in advance and budget accordingly.

Sound and entertainment logistics
Live bands and DJs will often need additional power, staging, lighting, and sound equipment. Don’t forget private changing areas or green rooms for performers, which may require extra space or a small additional tent.

Licensing and event insurance
If you plan to serve alcohol or play music into the night, you may need a Temporary Event Licence. Event insurance is also advisable for peace of mind—it covers everything from weather issues to supplier cancellations..

Contingency budget for last-minute needs
No matter how organised you are, there are always last-minute adjustments—extra lighting, heating, umbrellas, or staffing tweaks. A well-planned contingency budget will keep your day running smoothly without financial stress.

Luxury Marquee Wedding and Party Planner

The beauty of a marquee event lies in its ability to be entirely your own—refined, relaxed, opulent or understated. But with that blank canvas comes a need for careful, experienced planning. By understanding and anticipating the hidden costs from the beginning, you can focus on creating a beautiful, memorable celebration without the unexpected surprises. Thoughtful budgeting doesn’t take away from the luxury—it ensures it.