Getting married at Home

There’s something truly special about hosting your wedding in a place that already holds cherished memories. If you’re lucky enough to have a garden or family home with space, a marquee wedding can be a stunning and personal way to say ‘I do.’ From the intimate atmosphere to the flexibility of styling and scheduling, a garden wedding is a dream for couples who want a unique, relaxed, and meaningful day.

Why Choose a Garden Marquee Wedding?

1. A Personal & Meaningful Setting

Getting married at home instantly makes your wedding feel more intimate. Whether it’s your childhood garden or the home you share as a couple, every corner of your wedding will be filled with nostalgia and personal significance.

2. Total Creative Freedom

Unlike traditional venues with set packages, a marquee wedding lets you design your day exactly as you want. Choose your own caterers, decorate to your heart’s content, and create a layout that suits your vision perfectly.

3. No Time Limits

One of the biggest perks of a home wedding is that you’re not restricted by a venue’s schedule. You can start your celebrations early and dance under the stars without worrying about curfews or time constraints.

Choose the Right Marquee

There are plenty of options when it comes to marquee styles, from traditional pole marquees to elegant sailcloth tents and modern clear-span structures. Consider:

• Guest numbers – Make sure your marquee comfortably fits your guests, dining tables, and dance floor.
• Weather planning – Sides that can be added or removed allow for flexibility if the weather changes.
• Aesthetic – Think about how the marquee will fit into your garden setting and complement your wedding style.

Prepare Your Garden

A little groundwork will ensure your garden is wedding-ready:

• Level the lawn – If your garden is uneven, a professional marquee company can provide flooring to create a stable surface.
• Power & lighting – You’ll likely need a generator for catering, sound systems, and lighting. Fairy lights, festoon lighting, and lanterns can create a magical evening atmosphere.
• Toilets – For larger weddings, consider hiring luxury portable toilets to keep things comfortable for guests.

Think About the Weather

British weather can be unpredictable, so have a backup plan in place:

• Heating – If your wedding is in spring or autumn, portable heaters will keep your guests cosy.
• Shade & cooling – For a summer wedding, provide shaded areas and cool drinks to keep everyone comfortable.

Catering & Drinks

With a marquee wedding, you have the freedom to choose your own caterers, from fine dining to food trucks. Consider:

• A catering tent – Your caterers will need a separate space to prepare food.
• DIY bar – A self-serve drinks station with signature cocktails, beer on tap, or a gin bar can add a fun, relaxed touch.
• Serving logistics – If you’re having a formal meal, ensure there’s enough space for servers to move around easily.

Entertainment & Music

With no venue restrictions, you can have live music, a DJ, or even a silent disco! Just keep in mind:

• Sound regulations – Check if there are any noise restrictions in your area, especially if you have neighbours close by.
• Dance floor – A solid dance floor will make sure your guests can party in style (and safely, without sinking into the grass!).

Personal Touches

A garden wedding allows for plenty of personalisation. Think about:

• Long banquet tables for a relaxed, family-style meal.
• Hanging florals and fairy lights inside the marquee for a dreamy effect.
• A firepit or outdoor lounge area for guests to unwind in the evening.

The Practical Side: Things to Consider

Permissions & Insurance

Even though it’s your own property, check whether you need permission for certain things, like playing amplified music late into the night. It’s also a good idea to get wedding insurance to cover any unforeseen issues.

Parking & Transport

Think about where guests will park—will they need to be shuttled from a nearby location? If you’re hosting a countryside wedding, arranging taxis or accommodation nearby is a thoughtful touch. There aren’t many ubers in Suffolk! 

Waste Management

With a home wedding, you’ll need to handle cleanup. Arrange for extra bins and consider hiring a team to take care of tidying up the next day so you can relax.

Final Thoughts

A garden marquee wedding is a beautiful, relaxed, and personal way to celebrate your love. With careful planning, you can create a truly magical experience that reflects your personalities and gives your guests an unforgettable day. Whether you envision an elegant affair or a laid-back garden party, your wedding at home will be filled with warmth, love, and memories that will last a lifetime. 

If you’re planning a marquee wedding and looking for a photographer to capture the magic of your day, I’d love to hear from you! Get in touch to chat about your plans.

SUFFOLK SUPPLIERS