10 Creative Ways to Style Your Marquee

When it comes to outdoor events, a marquee hire provided the perfect blank canvas to unleash your creativity. Whether you’re planning a market stall, a corporate gathering, or a festive birthday bash, styling your marquee the right way can turn a simple tent into a show-stopping venue. Transform and elevate your marquee hire Sydney with these 10 creative ways to style your marquee into a space your guests will never forget.

1. Choose a Theme That Sets the Tone

Think of your event theme as the secret ingredient, the underlying heartbeat that pulses through every detail. It’s more than just picking pretty colours; it’s about crafting an experience.

Imagine stepping into a boho chic wedding under a softly draped marquee, sunlight filtering through macrame hangings, guests lounging on plush cushions amidst dreamcatchers and wildflowers. The air is relaxed, the vibe is effortlessly cool.

Or picture a modern minimalist corporate event within a sleek, uncluttered marquee. Clean lines of sophisticated furniture in monochrome hues, punctuated by striking geometric lighting, create an atmosphere of understated elegance and focused professionalism.

Your chosen theme acts as your North Star, guiding every decision. It dictates the colour palette that washes the space, from the subtle blush of a romantic theme to the bold jewel tones of a Moroccan night. Even the furniture plays a crucial role, with mismatched vintage pieces enhancing a bohemian feel, while streamlined modular seating embodies modern style.

Don’t underestimate the power of a cohesive theme to transport your guests and create a truly immersive experience. It’s the invisible thread that weaves together every element, transforming a simple gathering into a captivating and unforgettable occasion. 

marquee wedding, lanterns and fairy lights

2. Drape It Up

Nothing adds elegance quite like draping. Use flowing fabrics on the ceiling or walls to soften the structure and create a luxurious atmosphere. Go for whites and pastels for a dreamy vibe, or bold hues to match a vibrant theme.

Draping isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about manipulating the space. It can soften harsh lines, lower high ceilings to create a more intimate feel, or even divide a large marquee into distinct zones. The flowing nature of the fabric adds a sense of movement and fluidity, making the entire space feel more dynamic and less static.

Consider the texture too! Silky satins catch the light beautifully, while lighter chiffons offer an airy, whimsical feel. Even heavier velvet can add a touch of opulent drama.

3. Layer the Lighting

Lighting is one of the easiest ways to set the mood. Think beyond overhead lighting—use fairy lights, festoon lights, LED uplighting, chandeliers, or even neon signs to create different zones and add visual interest.

By layering different types of lighting, you not only illuminate the space but also add incredible visual interest and dimension. You can highlight architectural features, create pathways, draw attention to key areas like the dance floor or bar, and ultimately, craft an environment that perfectly reflects the mood and intention of your event.

 

Pop up marquee set up in the evening

4. Bring in the Greenery

Add life to your marquee with plants, floral installations, and hanging greenery. A lush floral arch at the entrance or cascading vines inside the marquee instantly elevates the space and gives it a fresh, organic feel.

Consider the impact of strategically placed potted plants, adding pops of vibrant green throughout the space. Think elegant ferns on side tables, fragrant herbs as centrepieces, or tall, leafy specimens creating natural partitions.

Floral installations, beyond arches, can take many forms. Imagine stunning floral chandeliers suspended above dining tables, creating focal points of exquisite beauty. Or consider floral runners cascading down long banquet tables, adding a touch of natural elegance. Even simple bud vases filled with seasonal blooms can add a delicate and thoughtful touch.

5. Create a Statement Entrance

First impressions matter. Welcome guests with a styled entrance—think floral arches, balloon garlands, or custom signage. It’s a great way to excite guests before they even step inside.

A playful and celebratory balloon garland cascades around the doorway, its vibrant colours and whimsical shapes signalling fun and festivity – perfect for a birthday party or a more relaxed gathering. The movement and joyful aesthetic immediately put a smile on everyone’s face.

For a more personalized touch, consider custom signage. This could be an elegant welcome sign with the event’s name and date, a quirky neon sign reflecting the theme, or even a series of smaller signs leading guests with playful directions or quotes. It adds a unique and thoughtful element that shows attention to detail.

Beyond the visual, consider engaging other senses. Imagine subtle lighting illuminating the entrance as dusk falls, or the gentle fragrance of the surrounding flowers creating an inviting aroma. Even a carefully chosen welcome mat or a beautifully arranged display table with thematic elements can contribute to the overall impact

White and pink balloon garland and arch

6. Mix and Match Furniture

Create different zones with a variety of furniture. Use cocktail tables for mingling, lounge areas with plush seating for relaxing, and formal tables for dining. Play with textures like velvet, wood, and rattan to add character.

Moving further into the marquee, envision inviting lounge areas dotted with plush velvet sofas, comfortable armchairs adorned with textured throws, and perhaps a low coffee table scattered with interesting décor. This creates pockets of relaxation, offering a respite from the more energetic areas and encouraging deeper conversations in a more intimate setting. Think of it as a stylish living room within your event

7. Set the Stage

Whether it’s for a DJ, speeches, or performances, a stage is a great focal point. Style it with a branded backdrop, floral displays, or light-up letters to make it pop.

corporate stage

8. Add a Feature Ceiling

Look up! Don’t forget the ceiling space. Decorate with hanging lanterns, disco balls, dreamcatchers, or ribbon installations. It draws the eye upward and adds drama to your marquee.

Decorating the ceiling does more than just look pretty; it transforms the perceived volume of the space. It can make a high ceiling feel more intimate or draw the eye upward, making a lower ceiling feel more spacious. It also provides an opportunity to reinforce your theme in a unique and unexpected way.

9. Customise Your Floor Plan

Break free from standard layouts. Customise the marquee floor plan to suit your event style—create open dance floors, cosy lounge corners, or chic bar areas. The layout sets the flow for the entire experience.

10. Include Personal Touches

Add personality to the space with custom elements—photo displays, handwritten signs, or a feature wall that tells your story. These details make your event feel more intimate and memorable.

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