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Writer's pictureKatharine Snowden

11 tips for a luxury marquee wedding on the beach

Updated: Feb 8

Finally, we’re getting some sun here in the UK, and it's got us pining for the beach. So, if you’re planning a wedding and these late summer rays have got you dreaming of sand between your perfectly pedicured toes as you say your vows, this article is for you.


We’re going to share our top tips for planning a beautiful and memorable marquee wedding on the beach. Plus, we’ll give you all the reasons why a pole and canvas marquee is perfect for an oceanside setting. Whether it's a bohemian beach wedding or a classic coastal affair, here are our top tips to help you plan your perfect beach marquee wedding.

A Peacock and Bow pole and canvas marquee at sunset, set up in a waterside location.

1. Choose the right location

The beach is a beautiful setting for a marquee wedding. But, sand is not the right terrain for a marquee, unless you want it to sink, and why would anyone want that? I mean really, how silly!


You’ll need to choose a beach that has a large grassy area or other flat surface. Here you can set up your marquee, roll up the clear walls and take in panoramic views of the coast, while cringing at the best man's speech. Remember to consider accessibility for your guests.


Lincolnshire, home of Peacock and Bow, has some beautiful secluded beach spots with breathtaking views of miles of sand, dunes and ocean. Anderby Creek, Theddlethorpe Beach, Sandilands, Sutton-on-Sea, and Humberston Fitties Beach are all stunners.


Perhaps you're lucky enough to have a family home on the coast. Or maybe you own land with beach access. If not, to find suitable land for hire in these or other coastal locations across the UK you can contact Local Authorities or visit these websites.

If you’re planning a destination beach wedding abroad, visit Wills Marquees. Here you'll find details of our trusted partners who operate in your chosen destination. If you can't find a suitable provider abroad, give us a call. Have marquees, will travel!

Two large Peacock and Bow pole and canvas marquees are set up by a lakes, they are reflected beautifully in the water.

2. Consider the time of year

The best time to have a marquee beach wedding is late spring or late summer, when the weather is more mild. If you're planning a peak summer wedding, be sure to have a backup plan in case of rain, or if it's absolutely baking hot. Providing plenty of natural and organic sunscreen and vintage lace parasols will keep guests comfortable and feeling well looked after. For more on the perfect month for a marquee wedding, check out our article Best month for an English country garden party wedding.


At Peacock and Bow, our stunning pole and canvas marquees are strong and weatherproof. Our experienced team always ensures the marquees are properly installed and anchored. So, if you choose P&B, you can rest assured you and your guests will be cosy and safe. To learn more about how our marquees are weather warriors, take a look at our post on how rainproof pole and canvas marquees are.


3. Hire a professional marquee company

Call us biassed but this is especially important for a successful beach marquee wedding. An experienced and reputable company can help you choose the right marquee for your needs and ensure that it's set up properly. Check out our ultimate guide to hiring a marquee to make sure you find a marquee hire company that’s the right fit for you.

Two large Peacock and Bow pole and canvas marquees are set up in a rural lakeside location.

4. Style your marquee

You don't have to go full on seaside theme with driftwood, bunting, Punch and Judy, and deckchairs (although, who doesn't love a deck chair?). The beach is a natural setting and the wood and natural cotton canvas of our marquees already make a sublime laid back luxe combination. Adding a few simple touches such as decorated flower rings can make your marquee look even more chic.

Inside a Peacock and Bow pole and canvas marquee, the vast white canopy is lit with fairy lights and beautifully dressed flower rings encircle the king poles.

5. Get the lighting right

The natural cotton canvas that forms the swooping peaks of our traditional marquees allows natural light to filter through during the day. This creates a soft, diffused lighting effect that invokes an intimate and relaxed atmosphere, perfect for beach weddings.


Our marquees look fabulous at night lit with fairy lights, lanterns, and festoons. Our signature flying lights along the external roofline are extra special as they illuminate the marquee majestically against the vast expanse of ocean and night sky.

A Peacock and Bow pole and canvas marquee is lit up majestically against the night sky as wedding guests enjoy the party.

6. Prepare for fluctuating beach temperatures

Provide fans and plenty of shade during the day. Put out blankets and stoke up the fire pit to keep everyone cosy at night.


Our pole and canvas marquees have better ventilation compared to more enclosed structures. So they’re perfect for keeping guests comfortable on a hot and sunny day at the beach. And, if the wind picks up or it gets chilly, simply roll away the clear floor to roof walls to keep warm without sacrificing the 360 degrees views.

Inside a Peacock and Bow pole and canvas marquee, blankets are rolled up and displayed in wooden crates  with a blackboard sign that reads 'snuggle up'.

A fire pit in front of a Peacock and Bow pole and canvas marquee.

7. Ensure you have a reliable sound system

Discuss volume restrictions with local authorities. Keep it laid back with an acoustic musician to provide a chilled out soundtrack in the background during the day. Then bring on the DJ's and live bands in the evening to create a lively beach party atmosphere.


Another benefit of our traditional marquees is that canvas can absorb sound, which creates a more intimate and pleasant atmosphere during ceremonies and receptions. It helps to reduce echo and create better acoustics for live music or speeches

Outside a Peacock and Bow pole and canvas marquee, a saxophonist plays at the top of some wooden steps that  are lined with festoon lights hung on giant shepherds crooks.

8. Dress for the beach

Inform your guests about the beach setting in advance so they can dress accordingly and come prepared. Make sure they know that light, flowing fabrics and comfortable shoes, even flip flops, are ok. We'll let you work out your own policy on Crocs.


9. Photography and Videography

Hire professionals experienced in beach weddings who know how to capture the natural beauty and lighting conditions.


10. Choose a catering service experienced in outdoor events

They should be able to handle any sand and wind-related challenges. Consider a seafood or beach barbecue menu for a coastal vibe.


11. Enjoy your luxury marquee beach wedding!

A marquee beach wedding is a truly unique and special event. So relax, enjoy the scenery, and celebrate your love with your family and friends.

Newly weds embrace in a field at golden hour.

Our pole and canvas marquees provide a rustic and natural aesthetic that complements the beach setting. The natural cotton canvas canopy, ropes and real wood poles blend seamlessly with the surroundings, creating an organic and romantic atmosphere. If you would like to talk to us about hiring our marquees for your beach wedding, drop us a line today.


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