When hiring a marquee, the structure provides the cover, but the furniture and layout determine how the space is actually used.
Tables, chairs, and other practical extras affect guest comfort, movement, and how the event flows.
This guide explains how to choose furniture and key extras for a marquee event, based on event type rather than appearance alone.
The aim is to help you plan a layout that works in practice and suits your guest numbers.
Tables - structuring the space
Tables define how guests use a marquee. Dining layouts require more space than standing events, and the table type should reflect how formal the event is.
Most events use a combination of round tables for seating and rectangular tables for food service or gifts.
For seated dining, allow enough room for chairs to be pulled out and for guests to move between tables.
Weddings and formal events typically benefit from round dining tables, while parties and corporate events often use more flexible layouts with fewer tables.
Chairs - comfort and capacity
Seating affects how long guests remain comfortable, particularly during meals or speeches.
For seated events, chairs should be planned alongside table spacing rather than added as an afterthought.
Casual events can use standard event seating, while weddings and formal receptions often include dressed chairs or covers.
It is also sensible to allow a small number of spare chairs for flexibility.
Bars and service areas
Where drinks are being served, a dedicated bar or service area helps keep the marquee organised and prevents congestion.
Positioning bars away from dining tables improves movement and reduces queues.
For larger events, spacing the bar near standing areas rather than seating helps the event flow more naturally.
Dance floors and open areas
A 12x12ft Dance Floor creates a clear focal point for evening events and helps protect the ground underneath.
Even at smaller events, a defined open area encourages guests to move and prevents furniture from blocking key spaces.
Dance floors should be planned early, as they reduce the space available for tables and seating.
In many cases, choosing a slightly larger marquee provides a better balance.
Combining furniture effectively
A practical marquee layout focuses on clear walkways, defined zones, and avoiding overcrowding.
Separating dining, standing, and entertainment areas makes the space easier to use.
For weddings, layouts often include dining tables, a central open area, and space for evening guests.
These setups are covered in more detail under Wedding Marquee Hire.
Planning support
If you are unsure how much furniture will fit inside your marquee, it is better to plan this before booking.
Guest numbers, table spacing, and open areas all affect the required marquee size.
If you need help choosing furniture or planning a layout, contact Midlands Marquee Hire with your event details and we can advise on a practical setup.
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