Why winter events and marquees go hand in hand

You could be forgiven for thinking holding a winter event in a marquee might seem a bit, well, barmy. Won’t it be cold and draughty? And possibly a bit damp underfoot? The short answer is a definite ‘no’! However, we are more than happy to explain in a little more detail about why these misconceptions are not just totally unfounded, but also how a marquee can create an absolutely amazing venue for a wedding or other celebration during the winter months.

Cosy and comfortable

Let’s begin by dealing with the elephant in the room (or marquee, in this instance!). Our structures are built to withstand anything the British elements can throw at them, whether that’s wind, rain or snow, and conform to or even surpass industry standards. Our industrial 85kw heaters ensure you and your guests will feel positively toasty inside the marquee, the air temperature throughout will be as warm if not warmer than your average house. In fact, something we advise is to ensure that you allow space for a cloakroom within the marquee in winter as guests will no doubt arrive swathed in big coats, scarves and gloves and will need somewhere to store them as they certainly won’t need to wear them!

Regardless of what’s falling out of the sky and no matter how soggy the ground might be, you can be assured it won’t seep up into the marquee as our clever team will ensure the floor is raised and the carpet and dancefloors will stay nice and dry.

Room for everyone

Another important piece of advice we’d offer is to ensure there’s enough space for everyone to be inside at once (to be fair, this advice can also be applied in summer as you never know when the heavens might open in good old Blighty!).

We can help design the most suitable layout for your needs and, as our marquees are modular with lots of sizing options, there is masses of scope for setting up exactly the right configuration of shapes and sizes to create your bespoke venue. You don’t have to stick with a traditional oblong, we can add sections off the central structure to create zones for different areas, perhaps a larger bar with casual seating; a separate section for eating; a cloakroom; a toilet block that’s integrated so people don’t need to venture outside to spend a penny; the opportunities really are endless.

Roofed verandas are always popular and in winter they can work well as a semi-outdoor space that can be furnished with comfy seating covered with fur throws to snuggle into. There’s a choice too of solid walls, glass, even wood panelling, which can all be used to create different effects. We especially like using a clear roof in winter with the starscape in full view – it’s not always possible to add this feature in summer without using air conditioning units, so winter is the ideal time to use it to full dramatic effect.

Bring on the romance

Styling is something we’ve talked about in another blog specifically on the subject of winter weddings, and it’s worth repeating here that it really does come into its own in the colder months as all sort of magical options open up that just wouldn’t work in summer. You really do have a blank canvas to play with and we can help bring your vision to life, whatever it is you might have in mind. The Danish concept of ‘hygge’ – a warm, inviting, cosy atmosphere – can be instantly conjured up with Scandi furnishings and sheepskin trimmings, or you may want to go full-on winter wonderland with fake snow and fairy lights galore!

Lighting is another key factor for this season; there is less daylight so you get more time to use it which means more opportunity to play with the look and feel of each zone whether the effects you’re after are subtle or bold. Mix and match lanterns, LED candles and dimmers, ultraviolet, changing colours, flashing signs… and even consider what’s at your disposal outside the marquee – are there trees and bushes that could be lit to add interest to the landscape? Even providing a firepit nearby for people to gather round can create a lovely romantic light.

The world really is your oyster when it comes to winter events and we are always very happy to help bring your vision to life.

Find more winter wedding inspiration here. And we even have a special early booking offer for winter weddings 2018/19, here. If you would like to speak to us about our wedding planning or marquee hire service, email info@villagefarmmarquees.co.uk or ring (01262) 468160.