How to Choose the Right Marquee Layout

Choosing the best Marquee Layout for Your Event

When it comes to marquee events, the layout isn't just about where things go, it's about how people feel in the space. A well-planned layout helps your event flow naturally, ensures guests are comfortable, and supports everything from speeches to dancing.

At Abinger Marquees, we've designed marquees for every kind of celebration, from elegant weddings to wild 21st birthdays and polished corporate events. Here's a guide to choosing the right layout for your occasion.

1. Weddings: Balance Between Formality and Flow

Best Layouts:

1.    Circular tables for sit-down meals

2.    Central or corner stage for entertainment or speeches

3.   Clear dance floor area with ambient lighting

A wedding layout typically includes space for dining, dancing, and moments in between. Round tables encourage conversation and symmetry, while a defined dance floor keeps the energy high once the formalities are over. Add a chill-out zone with sofas and soft lighting for guests who want to step away from the action.

2. Corporate Events & Award Nights: Structured and Focused

Best Layouts:

1.    Banquet-style long tables for efficient service and seating

2.    Stage with front-facing seating for presentations or performances

3.   Reception/bar area for mingling before and after

Whether you're hosting a company celebration or launching a new product, corporate events benefit from structure. Long tables work well for formal dining, while a central stage and lighting setup puts the spotlight where it matters. Consider adding branded elements to elevate the professional look.

3. Birthday Parties & Milestone Celebrations: Social and Energetic

Best Layouts:

1.    Open-plan layout with high tables orgrazing stations

2.    Lounge furniture and chill-out zones

3.   Spacious dance floor with lighting effects

These events are all about the atmosphere. Keep the layout open to encourage movement and conversation, with furniture arranged to create a natural flow. A stage or DJ booth works well atone end, while portable bars and relaxed seating offer areas to gather and catch up.

4. Garden Parties & Afternoon Teas:Light and Informal

Best Layouts:

1.    Scattered smaller tables or picnic-style seating

2.    Plenty of open space and natural light

3.   Minimal staging or tech - let the setting do the work

Garden parties thrive on charm and simplicity. Use your marquee to provide shelter and shade, while keeping sides open to let the outdoors in. Light furnishings and floral decor help maintain a relaxed, welcoming feel.

5. Festivals & Live Music Events: BuiltAround the Stage

Best Layouts:

1.    Large central or front-facing stage

2.   Standing or picnic-style seating

3.   Backstage or green room area if needed

For performance-led events, everything revolves around the stage. You'll want plenty of space for the crowd and great lighting and sound positioning. Marquee extensions can be used for food, drink, merchandise, or VIP areas.

6. Intimate Dinners & Private Events:Cosy and Considered

Best Layouts:

1.    One long table for togetherness

2.    Low lighting and soft interiors for warmth

3.   Compact space to create intimacy

When your guest list is small but the atmosphere matters, a tightly designed space can be magical. Use a marquee to create a private dining room effect, with candles, chandeliers, and soft furnishings to set the tone.

Let Abinger Marquees help with your event

Whatever event you're planning, the right layout can make all the difference. At Abinger Marquees, we don't just provide the marquee, we help you shape the entire experience. From tables and chairs to stages, lighting and interior linings, we tailor everything to your needs.

Got an idea but not sure how to lay it out?

Get in touch... We'll help you turn your vision into a space that works perfectly during the day.