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In an unexpected twist, climate change is influencing wedding plans across the UK. As temperatures rise, making the climate warmer and more temperate, an increasing number of couples are finding that they can slash their wedding budgets by thousands of pounds. One significant shift has been the move from traditional wedding venues to marquee hire, a trend that has seen a significant upturn in popularity.
The Economic Benefits of Marquee Weddings
The cost of weddings has famously spiralled upwards in recent years, with the average traditional wedding now costing around £18,400, according to a 2022 study by Hitched.co.uk. In contrast, couples opting for marquee hire often find themselves paying considerably less. Neil Mangla of Casablanca Hire explains that the company has seen a 30 percent increase in bookings since the pandemic, a testament to the growing appeal of marquee weddings.
For instance, if a couple hosts approximately 80 guests, a marquee can typically be hired for around £2,500. This figure starkly contrasts with the £18,400 average cost of traditional venue hire, with many couples finding that expenses can balloon to over £25,000 once food and drink are considered.
Flexibility and Personalization with Marquees
Beyond the cost savings, marquee weddings offer unparalleled flexibility and personalization. Unlike traditional venues, which often come with fixed packages for catering and decor, marquees allow couples to tailor every aspect of their big day. "Renting a marquee allows couples to outsource or even manage catering and drinks themselves, which significantly reduces costs," says Mangla. This DIY approach not only cuts expenses but also adds a personal touch to the event. Couples can choose to have a buffet, set up a bar run by friends, or create a unique theme that reflects their personalities.
The flexibility in decor is another significant advantage of a marquee wedding. Traditional venues often have strict guidelines on decorations to protect their facilities, but with a marquee, the sky's the limit. Couples can transform the interior into a whimsical fairy-tale setting with twinkling fairy lights and cascading floral arrangements or opt for a minimalist, chic atmosphere with sleek furniture and modern decor. This freedom extends to the layout as well. Whether couples want a spacious dance floor, a cozy lounge area, or a combination of both, a marquee can be customized to meet their vision.
Moreover, marquee weddings can accommodate any number of guests. Traditional venues may have capacity limits that force couples to trim their guest lists, but marquees can be sized up or down as needed. For an intimate gathering, a smaller marquee creates a warm, inviting space. For larger celebrations, additional marquees can be connected to form a grand, seamless venue. This scalability is particularly advantageous during uncertain times, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, when guest numbers may need to be adjusted at the last minute.
The Influence of Climate on Venue Choice
The choice of a marquee is also increasingly driven by the UK's changing climate. With longer, hotter, and drier spells, outdoor celebrations are becoming more feasible and appealing. "Warmer weather encourages couples to consider the outside option of a marquee at home or in local grounds," Mangla notes. This shift is not only practical but also allows for a more enjoyable and ambient setting, taking full advantage of the pleasant weather.
The Snowball Effect
The popularity of marquee weddings seems to be self-perpetuating. As Mangla points out, "There has been a bit of a snowball effect with people attending weddings in marquees and then considering it for themselves." This trend is fuelled by the visibility of marquee weddings and the evident enjoyment and uniqueness they offer. Guests and couples alike see the benefits first-hand, which encourages more people to choose this option for their events.
A Sustainable Choice
The marquee hire trend also aligns with a growing interest in sustainable and earthy wedding themes. Hosting an event in one's own garden or a local green space reduces the carbon footprint associated with large, indoor venues. The ability to control every aspect of the event—from sourcing local food and drinks to minimizing waste—appeals to environmentally conscious couples who want their celebration to reflect their values.
Furthermore, marquees offer the flexibility to fully control every aspect of the event, promoting a greener celebration. Couples can choose eco-friendly options such as biodegradable decor, solar-powered lighting, and recycled materials for their setup. The ability to source local, organic food and beverages cuts down on transportation emissions and supports local agriculture, which is both sustainable and often provides fresher, tastier options for guests. Additionally, the layout of a marquee can be designed to optimize natural lighting and ventilation, reducing the need for artificial lighting and air conditioning, further lowering the event's energy use.
Waste reduction is another significant benefit of opting for a marquee. Couples can implement effective recycling systems, choose reusable dinnerware, and donate leftover food to local charities. These practices not only reduce waste but also foster a sense of community and responsibility towards the environment.
By integrating these sustainable practices, environmentally conscious couples can ensure their celebration not only reflects their values but also actively contributes to the preservation of the environment. Hosting a wedding in a marquee is thus not just a statement of style but also a profound commitment to sustainability.
Final Thoughts
As climate change continues to influence various aspects of life, its impact on wedding planning is becoming increasingly clear. Marquee weddings offer a cost-effective, flexible, and enjoyable alternative to traditional venues. They allow couples to create highly personalized and memorable events that take advantage of the warmer UK climate while also being kinder to their wallets and the planet.
It's no surprise that as people become more aware of these benefits, the popularity of marquee hire in London continues to grow. For couples planning their big day, it might just be the perfect combination of romance, practicality, and sustainability
