Interiors Part 2: Furnishings.

Theme

The Red Carpet

So, chances are, if you're in process of planning your wedding, you already have a 'theme' in mind.  This doesn't have to be so defined that others can't fail to notice, like a 'fairy' theme that involves bridesmaids with wings and things dangling from the ceiling, it could simply be the air you wish to create. In the simplest form, it could just be a decision between a formal or informal wedding.

The excellent thing about your wedding is that it's your wedding, so you can be as original as you like. You may want the whole congregation to dress as super heroes; you may want a straight-backed aristocratic affair with a red carpet and string quartet (pic above right). You may just want your guests to sit cross legged on the floor. It's up to you but your theme will play a huge part in everything you plan and do, especially when you design your marquee. 

Flooring.

Your first decision will be what flooring you wish to have.

The most popular and cheapest option is carpet. Most marquee companies offer a variety of colours to choose from, though most couples opt for green. Check that your site is fairly flat, the grass is short and cow-pat free before your marquee company come to put the flooring down. If your site is particularly bumpy in patches, the company may be willing to level it (at additional cost). It's worth noting though that while carpet is a cheaper option, if you want a dance floor, you'll have to pay for this on top.  

On Grass

A very elegant choice, particularly for a more formal wedding, is wooden flooring (pic above right). This generally comes in large slats that slot into each other to create a solid base. While a more expensive choice, it does look fabulous when laid properly. An area can also be taped if required to act as a designated dance area. Again though, the site needs to be reasonably flat in order for the sections to lie flush to the ground. Particularly uneven sites may require 'sprung flooring' a pricey alternative stocked only by a few companies. 

Alternatively, for a more casual look, there's nothing to stop you doing away with flooring all together (above left.) It's unlikely many of your guests will pay much attention to what they're walking on when there is a bride to admire and glasses of bucks fizz to drink. 

You might want to consider the weather though. If it's been raining non-stop for the past 6 weeks and your site is bordering on a'bog', Aunt Jane isn't going to be too happy to find her best stilettos disappearing into the mud. Think about it carefully. 

Chairs.

When it comes to deciding on what chairs to choose, look at as many pictures as possible. It's important to note that not all marquee companies supply several different styles but that doesn't mean you have to compromise just because all they stock are white bistros (right.)

Carpeted with White Bistro Chairs

For practical reasons, wooden folding chairs are an excellent choice (see pic: 'on grass') and are certainly our most popular to hire. They look nice, they're comfortable and, most importantly, they can be folded away in the evening if you need more room. You can also have a few extras tucked away in a corner to unfold if you need some more seats later on. 

Remember, if you hire a marquee from a company, there is no obligation to use their furniture too. If you want Cheltenham Gold Gilts (top right), you can always hire from an event supplier. The only catch is to ensure your furniture is delivered after the marquee is erected else you could have a field full of chairs and nothing to protect them from the elements! 

Obviously, the least stressful way to ensure you have everything you need when you need it is to hire from a company that can supply everything at a good price. (www.gdhire.com : for all your event needs.) 

Elegant Silver Chiavari Chairs

Ask your marquee company what chairs are available and ask for pictures if possible. Ask if cushions are supplied as standard and if not, how much they cost. Ask also if you can choose the colour of the seat pads or if you have to settle for what they have in stock. 

If you're really worried about your guests getting a numb bum while sitting through the speeches, ask the company if you can visit their yard and try a few out. It might feel like a game of musical chairs but it also might make your decision easier. 

Alternatively, if you're not keen on any of the chairs on offer, you could opt for chair covers (main blog picture: top.) While not exactly your cheapest option, chair covers with coloured sashes do look exquisite. 

The important thing is to think of your theme, think of the 'setting' you wish to create then select your chairs/flooring accordingly. Look at your budget and discuss your options with your marquee company.

Next Week: Interiors Part 3: Lighting and Accessories. 

by C.Bright www.gdhire.com