From Planning to Party: A Timeline for Organising Your Marquee Event

09 April 2025

Planning a marquee event is exciting—you’ve got the freedom to design your own venue, from layout and lighting to seating and style. But with great freedom comes great responsibility (and a bit of scheduling). Whether it’s a wedding, party, or corporate do, a clear timeline makes the process smooth, enjoyable, and stress-free. Here’s your month-by-month guide to planning the perfect marquee event.

6–12 Months Before: Secure the Big Stuff

Start early. Marquees are in high demand during peak seasons, so the sooner you book, the better.

Book Your Marquee Provider: Reach out to TMCL early to check availability and get expert guidance on the type of marquee that suits your event.

Choose Your Venue: Will it be at home? A garden? A rented estate? Confirm your location and make sure it’s marquee-friendly.

Set a Budget: Consider marquee hire, decor, catering, furniture, lighting, and extras like toilets or a generator. Knowing your ballpark figure early helps guide decisions.

4–5 Months Before: Design & Suppliers

Now’s the time to add shape to your vision.

Pick a Theme or Style: Whether it’s boho chic, country elegance, or modern minimalism, choose a vibe that reflects your event.

Secure Key Suppliers: Book caterers, bar services, entertainment, and photographers. If you need furniture or tableware hire, get those arranged too.

Plan the Layout: Work with your marquee provider to design a layout that includes dining, dancing, chill-out zones, and service areas.

3 Months Before: Details, Details

This is when the planning starts to feel real—and fun!

Guest List & Invites: Finalise your guest list and send out invitations (or at least save-the-dates).

Flooring & Lighting Decisions: Confirm your marquee flooring—carpet, wood, or matting—and finalise lighting preferences, from fairy lights to chandeliers.

Consider the Weather: Spring and summer can be unpredictable. Discuss wet-weather options, side walls, or heaters if needed.

1–2 Months Before: Final Touches

It’s nearly party time! Now’s the moment to refine and confirm everything.

Confirm Timings: Lock in start/end times, supplier arrival slots, and build/breakdown windows with your marquee provider.

Run a Walkthrough: Visualise the day from start to finish. Think about how guests will arrive, move through the space, and where each key moment will happen.

Safety & Power: Make sure safety considerations are in place—emergency exits, power needs, lighting for paths, and toilets.

2 Weeks Before: Check-In and Confirm

You're on the home stretch now—just a bit of final admin.

Confirm with All Suppliers: Double-check arrival times, services, dietary requirements, and special requests.

Prep Decorations & Signage: Get any DIY elements finished and ready to go. If you’re handling some of the decor, make sure it’s organised and transport-ready.

Event Week: Build and Celebrate!

Let the excitement begin!

Marquee Setup: Your marquee will typically be installed a day or two before the event. Be on hand (or have someone represent you) to ensure everything’s positioned as planned.

Decor & Styling: Add your finishing touches—floral arrangements, seating charts, and signage.

Final Run-Through: Do one last check with your team or suppliers, and then... relax!

Final Thoughts

A marquee event gives you the freedom to create something truly personal—but it works best with a solid plan. Following this simple timeline helps take the stress out of the process and ensures nothing is left to chance.

Planning your own marquee event? Get in touch with TMCL—we’ll help you every step of the way, from first sketch to final toast.