Marquees vs Tipis – Which Is Best Suited for Your Wedding?
When it comes to deciding on a particular structure that’ll host your special day, you’d likely be looking at a marquee, or at the very least its close relative, the frame tent. These are the classic go-to options for weddings and large gatherings, be it private or a public event. But while marquee weddings certainly have their positives, they’re not the be-all and end-all. Another option, one that often gets overlooked, is the Giant Hat Tipi. And yes, I’ll admit we’re slightly biased here, but Tipis offer a charm and atmosphere that many couples and families don’t always consider.
Now, if you’ve been on the fence about deciding what to choose, or are still struggling to find the perfect look and feel, come with us as we examine the pros and cons of each structure.
Tipi
Let’s start with the most subjective but arguably the most important thing during a wedding: aesthetics. A Tipi has a visual impact that few structures can match. Whether dressed up or left minimalist, a Tipi immediately creates a warm and inviting atmosphere and, importantly, is photogenic. While marquees can certainly be decorated to look attractive, a Tipi has that rustic wow-factor we all know and love. If you imagine looking back at your wedding photos in years to come, and you want something that feels unique and magical, the Tipi tends to win on charm alone.
When it comes to size and flexibility, you may assume marquees have the upper hand, but Giant Hat Tipis are surprisingly adaptable. They’re completely modular and can be linked together in numerous configurations. This means they can be tailored to suit awkward spaces, open fields, tight gardens, and the rest. Whether you need something intimate or something grand, Tipis scale up beautifully without losing their atmosphere.
Let’s not forget that all-important weatherproofing - an absolute must if you're planning a UK wedding. While both marquees and tipis offer reliable waterproofing, Tipis tend to have an edge in wind resistance due to their cone shape. And on the rare chance the UK graces us with a hot day, Tipis can be opened up with raising kits to boost airflow and keep your guests comfortable. For a deeper dive into Tipi weather performance, check out our blog where we walk through all the details.
Marquees
Now, I know I’ve praised the Tipi’s aesthetic quite a bit, but marquees can definitely hold their own. They offer a completely different look and feel, and suit couples who prefer a blank-canvas style space. Marquees, depending on the hire, also come in various materials such as PVC, canvas, or sailcloth, each offering its own character and adding an element of customisation. With the right eye, a marquee can transform into an elegant wedding venue that will be envied and talked about for years to come.
One thing couples sometimes overlook when comparing the two is internal structure. Marquees usually have their metal framework along the edges, leaving the interior space unobstructed. Tipis, by contrast, have visible wooden main poles. These poles are central to the tipi’s structure and style, but they do take up a small amount of floor space and can be slightly obstructive and potentially annoying. It is rarely an issue, but it’s still something to keep in mind.
Where marquees often shine is price. Generally speaking, they tend to be more affordable than their Tipi counterparts. Of course, both structures will require additional elements, such as flooring, lighting, furniture, sound systems, and so on, but the base uk hire price of a marquee is typically lower. Many companies, including ours, offer bundle packages for weddings that can help reduce overall costs, but this varies depending on the provider
The Verdict
Both tents bring something unique to a wedding, and both have strengths depending on your priorities, be it price, style, size, or practical considerations. But if you’re asking for my honest (and yes, a little biased) opinion, the Giant Hat Tipi edges out the competition. It wins on aesthetics, holds its own in every weather condition the UK throws at it, and can rival marquees in size while offering a much more atmospheric setting. That being said, whatever structure you choose for any of your wedding ideas, make sure it reflects the kind of day you want to create.