Simple Tips To Decorate Your Marquee On A Budget

Marquees are one of the most flexible and stylish ways to organise events, from weddings to birthday parties and corporate gatherings. But sometimes, it can be overwhelming to decorate them beautifully, especially when on a tight budget.

Luckily, many creative and cost-effective marquee decoration ideas will help you achieve a stunning look without breaking the bank. Whether you are about to a marquee hire in Croydon for your event or have one booked, these tips will inspire you to transform your marquee into an inviting and memorable space.

Choose A Theme To Simplify Your Decisions

Before you go into details of decorations, select a theme for your event. A themed selection will make your choice less scattered and prevent you from overspending on unimportant items. You could settle for rustic, bohemian, minimalistic, or garden-inspired themes. The theme will, therefore, guide you to shortlist some specific small marquee decoration ideas for the atmosphere of your event.

Fairy Lights Create Whimsical Ambiance

Fairy lights are inexpensive to add charm and warmth to your marquee. They can be draped along the ceiling, wrapped around poles, or strung along the edges of the marquee. Battery-operated fairy lights are perfect for areas without electrical outlets and are affordable for evening events.

Pro Tip: Choose warm white lights for a soft, elegant glow or multicoloured lights for a fun, festive atmosphere.

Do It Yourself Centrepieces

You can save a lot of money by making your table centrepieces. Add a personal touch to your décor by using the following ideas:

• Mason Jars: Fill them with flowers, candles, or LED lights.
• Seasonal Items: Pinecones, leaves, or pumpkins for autumn events.
• Recycled Materials: Paint old bottles or jars and use them as vases.

DIY centrepieces are versatile and can be made according to your theme.

Add Fabrics

Fabrics can be used to decorate the interior of your marquee at a very affordable price. Organza or tulle can be used for drapes, table runners, and chair sashes. It may also be budget cotton.

Ideas for the Use of Fabrics:

• Create a whimsical look with a draping of fabric above the ceiling.
• Use coloured sashes on chairs for splashes of colours.
• Use fabric runners at the tables to add colour to your theme.

Fabrics are easy to source and can instantly transform the space.

Upcycle And Reuse Decorations

Look around your home for items that can be repurposed as decorations. For example, old lanterns, photo frames, or mirrors can add character to your marquee.

Examples of Upcycling:

• Turn wooden pallets into signage or backdrops.
• Use empty wine bottles as a vase or candle holder.
• Make fairy lights and candles for the event.

Upcycling is a saver in your pockets and brings unique and personalised touches to an event.

Photo Booth Corner

Setting up a photo booth on a budget is simple but will be a crowd-pleaser. Set up a small part of the marquee by decorating it as a DIY photo booth with props and an effortless backdrop.

Budget Photo Booth Ideas:

• Use fabric or fairy lights as a backdrop.
• Add fun props like hats, glasses, or themed items.
• Include a chalkboard or sign with your event's hashtag.

This addition not only decorates your marquee but also provides entertainment for your guests.

Minimalistic Table Settings

You do not necessarily need tacky and complicated table settings to look beautiful. Use the minimalist approach to a clean look by using plain white tablecloths and mixing them with small splashes of:

• Napkins with colors.
• Small candles or tealights.
• Handwritten names on homemade place cards.
• Minimalism can be less pricey but truly elegant.

Use Natural Light End

If your event is daytime, use natural lighting by placing the marquee in a well-lit area. This will reduce your additional lighting usage and make your decorations pop.

Tip for Night Events: Use reflective materials such as mirrors or metallic accents to amplify lighting within the marquee.

Personalised Details

Personalised details on your marquee make the event unique and memorable. Consider including:

• Photo Displays: Hang family photos or event-specific images on a string.
• Custom Signs: Use chalkboards or wooden signs to display messages or directions.
• Handwritten Notes: Place thank-you cards or personalised notes at each table setting.

These details create an intimate atmosphere without adding much cost.

Final Thoughts

Decorating your marquee on a budget doesn't mean you have to compromise on style or creativity. Focus on some cost-effective ideas for marquee decoration, repurpose items, and add personal touches to create a fantastic space for any event. Whether planning a large gathering or exploring small marquee decoration ideas, these tips will help you achieve a beautifully decorated marquee that leaves a lasting impression.

For those needing a marquee, there is a marquee hire in Croydon for reliable and stylish solutions to suit your needs. With just a bit of imagination and careful planning, you can create a memorable celebration without spending more than your budget allows.