MARQUEE AND TABLE LAYOUT IDEAS AND INFORMATION

THE SONGBIRD MARQUEE FOR A WEDDING OF 150 guests

MAKING SMALLER WEDDINGS FEEL INTIMATE

A 21x10m clear roof marquee is quite spacious for 60 guests, so to make it feel intimate, try these tricks:

1. Long Banquet Style (Classic & Elegant)

✔ Great for a formal, communal dining experience.

  • Setup:

    • Two long trestle tables (10m each) running parallel.

    • A bridal table (3m) at one end.

    • Aisle down the center for easy movement.

  • Seating:

    • 30 guests per table (15 per side).

    • Bridal table seats 6-8.

  • Pros:

    • Maximises space.

    • Looks grand and cohesive.

    • Encourages conversation.

  • Cons:

    • Less intimate if the tables are too far apart.

  • Enhancements:

    • Hanging floral installations down the middle.

    • Runner-length candles & greenery.

2. U-Shape Layout (Intimate & Interactive)

✔ Great for a semi-formal feel with easy guest interaction.

  • Setup:

    • Three trestle tables forming a "U".

    • Open end faces a dance floor or sweetheart table.

  • Seating:

    • 20 guests on each long side.

    • 20 guests along the top of the "U".

  • Pros:

    • Keeps guests visually connected.

    • Open center allows for speeches & entertainment.

  • Cons:

    • Some guests will have their backs to the action.

  • Enhancements:

    • String lights over the open area.

    • Central floral piece or fire pit (if allowed).

3. Three Rows of Trestle Tables (Balanced & Spacious)

✔ Best for maximizing space and guest flow.

  • Setup:

    • Three trestle tables (8m each) running parallel.

    • A small sweetheart table at one end.

  • Seating:

    • 20 guests per table (10 per side).

    • The bridal table seats 2-4.

  • Pros:

    • Everyone sits close together.

    • Clean sightlines for speeches.

  • Cons:

    • Space between tables needs to be carefully measured for movement.

  • Enhancements:

    • Soft drapery on the ceiling.

    • Lanterns or fairy lights between rows.

4. Cross Formation (Unique & Dynamic)

✔ Best for a modern, social wedding with an unconventional setup.

  • Setup:

    • Two long trestle tables (10m each) crossing in the centre.

    • Two shorter tables (6m each) forming an "X".

  • Seating:

    • 15 guests per section, evenly distributed.

  • Pros:

    • Looks stylish & unique.

    • Encourages interaction across the sections.

  • Cons:

    • Can be tricky for waitstaff and guest movement.

  • Enhancements:

    • Statement floral piece at the centre of the "X".

    • Overhead greenery canopy.

5. T-Shaped Layout (Blends Intimacy & Space)

✔ Great for a wedding with a clear focal point (couple or speeches).

  • Setup:

    • One long head table (8m) at the top.

    • Two trestle tables (10m each) extending from the center.

  • Seating:

    • 10 guests at the head table.

    • 25 guests on each long table.

  • Pros:

    • Keeps the focus on the couple.

    • Balanced yet spacious.

  • Cons:

    • Some guests may feel further from the action.

  • Enhancements:

    • Draped fabric or florals framing the head table.

    • Soft lighting on the perimeter.

Bonus Tips for Any Layout:

  • Leave at least 1.5m between tables for easy movement.

  • Use low centrepieces for clear sight lines.

  • Define the space with rugs, hanging florals, or lanterns.

  • Keep a small lounge or bar area to break up the space.

  • Instead of one big open space, create defined areas:

    • A dining space with long or round tables.

    • A lounge area with sofas, rugs, and a coffee table.

    • A dance floor or bar corner to encourage movement.

  • Lower the Ceiling Visually

  • Hang draping fabric or soft fairy lights from the roof to create a canopy effect.

  • Use hanging florals or greenery installations to draw the eye downward.

  • Install paper lanterns or chandeliers to add warmth.

  • Use warm-toned lighting (fairy lights, candles, lanterns) to soften the space.

  • Place floor lamps or uplights around the perimeter to create a cozy glow.

  • Cluster candles on tables and in corners to break up large areas.

  • Use tall floral arrangements to break up space.

  • Add a feature backdrop (floral wall, neon sign, or fabric drapes) behind key areas like the bridal table or bar.

  • Incorporate family-style dining for closeness.

  • Use personalised touches like handwritten name cards or photos.

  • Add rugs under seating areas.

  • Use draped fabric around the marquee edges to soften the clear walls.

  • Velvet or linen table runners add warmth and texture.