How to Choose the Perfect Marquee Size for Your Event

Selecting the right marquee size is crucial for ensuring your event runs smoothly and comfortably. At Big Marquee Company, we understand that every event is unique, and we're here to help you make the best choice. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of determining the perfect marquee size for your event, considering factors such as guest numbers, event activities, and space requirements for comfort and safety.

Estimating Guest Numbers

Start with Your Guest List

The first step in choosing the right marquee size is to estimate the number of guests you expect to attend. This will be the foundation for determining the overall space required. At Big Marquee Company, we recommend creating a detailed guest list and considering potential plus-ones and additional attendees.

Seating Arrangements

Different seating arrangements require varying amounts of space. Here are some general guidelines that we tend to follow in the industry:

• Banquet Seating: For round tables, allocate 1-1.2 square meters per guest.
• Theater Seating: For rows of chairs, allocate 0.6-0.8 square meters per guest.
• Standing Reception: For cocktail-style events, allocate 0.6-0.8 square meters per guest.

Considering Event Activities

Dining and Catering Areas

If your event includes dining, you'll need to allocate space for tables, chairs, and catering stations. For buffet setups, ensure there is enough room for guests to move freely around the food stations. We suggest adding an extra 10-15% of space for catering areas.

Dance Floors and Entertainment

If your event features a dance floor, stage, or other entertainment areas, you'll need to factor in additional space. A typical dance floor requires approximately 0.4-0.5 square meters per guest. For stages and entertainment setups, consult with your entertainment provider to determine the appropriate dimensions.

Additional Amenities

Consider any additional amenities such as bars, lounge areas, photo booths, or restrooms. These elements can significantly impact the overall space requirements. We recommend creating a detailed floor plan to visualize the layout and ensure all amenities are accommodated.

Ensuring Comfort and Safety

Aisle and Walkway Space

It's essential to provide ample space for guests to move comfortably and safely throughout the marquee. Ensure there are clear walkways and aisles, especially around high-traffic areas like entrances, exits, and catering stations. Aisles should be at least 1-1.2 meters wide.

Weather Considerations

Weather can impact the comfort and safety of your event. If you're hosting an event during hot or cold seasons, consider adding extra space for heating or cooling equipment. At Big Marquee Company, we offer climate control solutions to ensure your guests remain comfortable regardless of the weather.

Accessibility

Ensure your marquee is accessible to all guests, including those with mobility challenges. This may require additional space for ramps, wider walkways, and accessible restrooms. At Big Marquee Company, we prioritize inclusivity and can help you create an accessible event layout.

Marquee Size Recommendations

Small Events (Up to 50 Guests)

For intimate gatherings such as small weddings, birthday parties, or corporate meetings, a marquee size of approx 6x9 meters is typically sufficient. This size accommodates seating, dining, and a small entertainment area.

Medium Events (50-150 Guests)

For medium-sized events such as larger weddings, corporate events, or milestone celebrations, a marquee size of approx 12x18 meters is recommended. This size allows for dining, entertainment, and additional amenities like bars or lounge areas.

Large Events (150+ Guests)

For large-scale events such as festivals, galas, or significant corporate functions, a marquee size of 15x20 meters or larger may be necessary. This size provides ample space for dining, entertainment, and multiple amenities, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all guests. We would expect to come and measure the space available for the marquee installation and advise you on what the best size is to install.

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Choosing the perfect marquee size for your event requires careful consideration of guest numbers, event activities, and space requirements for comfort and safety. At Big Marquee Company, we're dedicated to helping you create a seamless and memorable event. By following this comprehensive guide and consulting with our expert team, you can ensure your marquee is perfectly sized to meet your needs.

If you have any questions or need further assistance, don't hesitate to contact Big Marquee Company. We're here to help you every step of the way!

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