Birmingham-based Event Hire Association tells us why marquees are perfect for weddings

The UK weddings industry has taken a huge knock over the last 18 months. With all restrictions now removed, weddings are well and truly back on track, and couples are excitedly making plans once again. However, there will likely be several people who still feel nervous about attending weddings and may prefer to continue with social distancing and other measures, particularly those who fall into a vulnerable category. Birmingham-based Event Hire Association (EHA), a member of the UK Weddings Taskforce, has worked with its members to develop solutions to this dilemma so that couples can still have the day of their dreams, where all guests can feel comfortable and fully participate in the celebration.

"One of the options being proposed by EHA involves using marquees," says a representative of EHA. "Already a popular choice for receptions, EHA recommends that couples consider using a marquee for both the ceremony and the reception, as they allow a great amount of flexibility on space. If government restrictions should take a sudden change of direction, marquees can be easily increased or decreased in size a few days before the wedding.

"Using a venue with attractive grounds or gardens will also encourage guests to make use of outdoor space, and there are endless possibilities for how marquees can bring the outside and inside environments together. Tipis for example, typically have an attractive undulating open side, allowing a natural cohesiveness between the interior and exterior. They can be hired singly, but multiple tipis can also be joined together. Stretch tents are a similar alternative and can be made into almost any shape to fit with the surroundings.

"Although marquee weddings are traditionally most popular during the summer months, increasing numbers of couples are considering autumn and winter marquee weddings. Heaters can be incorporated to keep guests warm, and runway flooring to prevent high heels from sinking into the damp ground can be added to provide a distinctive walkway into the marquee."

For more information visit: www.eha.org.uk