Ah, a marquee wedding… what a lovely idea. That beautiful white tent says, loud and clear, “there’s something wonderful going on here”. As you want all of your guests to have a fabulous time, we have a few words to say about why you should consider setting up a marquee chill out area in your beautiful tent. We’ve already told you all you need to consider about hiring and decorating a marquee for your wedding – some careful thinking and planning is all you need to make sure it all comes together. And once it does, an unforgettable celebration is guaranteed.
Above image courtesy of West Country Marquees
Think back to the times when you’ve been invited to a dinner party – after all the delightful chatting, eating and drinking, nothing feels better than getting up from the table and sinking into a comfortable couch or armchair, cup of tea – or even a bite of dessert – in hand. Ahhhh… what a feeling. Why not recreate it for your wedding, with a marquee chill out area?
Above image courtesy of County Marquees
A marquee chill out area is simply a place where your guests can get comfy, get away from the dining tables, and have a breather. Arranging one is easier than you think, because there are lots of options – everything from a smaller tent attached directly to the main one, to a free corner made available by simply rearranging the tables. Your marquee hire company will know what’s best for your wedding location and size, just ask them for suggestions and they’ll be happy to help. They may be able to provide the soft furnishings themselves, or they’ll know a reputable rental company to refer you to. All you have to decide is what you want, and of course discuss with your betrothed to ensure they’re okay with it and you’re not going over the budget.
Above image courtesy of Viva Photography
Great ways to chill out
Your marquee chill out area can be as modest as you like – or it can serve a fun purpose… it’s really up to you.
• For the easiest arrangement, all you need is some soft furnishings, and perhaps some flowers in a vase, or a plant as decorations. Simple yet comfy, it’ll be a great place to hang out, sip that martini, and get away from the tables and the dance floor.
• To add a personal touch, consider adding a conversation piece that matches your theme. For example, for a vintage wedding you can add an old-fashioned set of bookshelves or a commode, and use it to display some framed photos – perhaps from your engagement, from your parents’ weddings, in memory of your grandparents, etc. It’s also a perfect place for your guest book, fingerprint art, or anything else the guests can partake in. You could even designate it as a “nostalgia” corner or similar.
• If there’s enough space, you can make this a kiddie corner too, with some appropriately sized furniture, and some toys scattered around.
• Get your guests to do some art for you by putting crayons, pencils, markers and paper nearby – ask them to draw something, or maybe even their own portrait?
• If you’ve hired various fun bits, like a photobooth, a cotton candy machine, caricaturist, that roulette wheel… anything you need extra space for, this is your space. You dine, you dance, you boogie over to that cool happenin’ corner and have some creative fun, basically!
Above image courtesy of Complete Chillout Company
How to decorate your marquee chill out area
• The furniture is easy – just ask the marquee company what’s available, and if they don’t have the colours you’re looking for, then some clever and inexpensive throws, pillows and tablecloths will solve the problem instantly.
• If you’re going for a certain look, visit your local charity shops or carboot sales – you can get beautiful pieces for next to nothing. It could be just one token item, or you want something really unusual – how about teacups hanging from the ceiling?
• You can never go wrong with flowers – all it takes is one bouquet.
• Paper lanterns, a single standing lamp with an interesting shade, or candles will provide a lovely light.
• Pile some books or magazines for guests to look through.
• How about one of those funhouse mirrors? This never gets old, adults and kids alike get a real kick out of this one. Or, how about those fun photo boards with holes for heads, where everyone can pose for some silly snaps?
• Tissue paper pom poms are a always a fun favourite.
The weddings guests remember are the ones where they felt truly appreciated and entertained – and setting aside a comfortable marquee chill out area is a guaranteed winner.
Above image courtesy of The Wedding Genie
Main image courtesy of Viva Photography