Outdoor weddings have become an increasingly popular choice for couples looking to celebrate in a more relaxed, open-air setting. In North London, where green spaces, gardens, and private event spaces are in demand, the idea of hosting a wedding under a marquee or in the open air is especially appealing.

But outdoor and marquee weddings come with their own planning needs, so here’s what to expect if you’re considering this route.

What Is a Marquee Wedding?

A marquee wedding is one that takes place in a temporary outdoor structure typically a tent or canopy, erected for the occasion. It offers the flexibility of an open layout, the charm of being close to nature, and the opportunity to personalise everything from the floor to the lighting.

In North London, marquee weddings are often hosted in private gardens, park-adjacent venues, or outdoor courtyards with the right permissions.

If you’re wondering how much these types of venues might cost, it’s worth checking out our post on How Much Do Wedding Venues in North London Cost? to help with early budgeting.

Key Considerations When Planning an Outdoor or Marquee Wedding

1. Weather Planning Is Essential

British weather is famously unpredictable, even in the summer. That means you’ll need a solid backup plan. Marquees should be fully weatherproof, with side panels, flooring, and heating options if needed. Even for peak-season weddings, having a contingency plan gives you peace of mind.

2. Check Site Permissions and Noise Rules

Not all outdoor spaces allow marquee structures or amplified music. If you’re hiring a venue with outdoor options, ask:

Are marquees permitted on the grounds?
Are there sound curfews or neighbourhood restrictions?
Is electricity access available for lighting and music?

These answers will shape what kind of event you can host.

Timing also plays a key role in the planning process. To avoid missing out on ideal dates or outdoor availability, take a look at When Should You Book Your Wedding Venue in North London? for useful booking insights.

3. Layout and Guest Comfort

Marquees offer flexibility, but they require planning for:

Seating arrangements and dining layout
Dancefloors, stages, or entertainment areas
Guest comfort (especially older guests or children)
Toilets, cloakrooms, and access to nearby indoor areas

Make sure you factor in enough space for both the celebration and the services that support it.

4. Lighting and Décor

Outdoor weddings allow for some beautiful styling opportunities, think string lights, lanterns, floral arches, and fairy-lit walkways. But don’t forget:

Power sources are needed for all lighting and equipment
Décor must be weather-safe and wind-resistant
Setup and breakdown time may be longer than for indoor events

It’s a good idea to coordinate with vendors who are experienced in outdoor setups.

5. Catering for Outdoor Weddings

Whether you’re using external caterers or those provided by the venue, make sure they’re equipped to handle outdoor service. Ask:

Is there a nearby kitchen or staging area?
Can food be kept warm or cold as needed?
What time can the catering team arrive to set up?

Some caterers bring mobile kitchens or vans, but you’ll still need space and power access to support them.

6. Logistics and Accessibility

Consider your guests’ experience from arrival to departure. Key questions to address:

Is there on-site parking or easy transport access?
Is the ground level and safe for elderly guests or those with mobility needs?
Are there covered areas for sudden weather changes?
What happens if the site becomes muddy or uneven after rain?

A well-prepared outdoor wedding anticipates all of this without sacrificing atmosphere.

7. Cost Implications

Marquee weddings can sometimes cost more than hiring a fully equipped indoor wedding venue. You’ll need to budget for:

Tent/marquee hire
Flooring, lighting, and heating
Toilets or portable washrooms
Furniture and tableware hire
Setup/breakdown crew

However, many couples love the freedom that marquee weddings provide, especially if they want a personalised, open-air event that’s unlike anything else.

8. Licensing and Ceremonies

If you’re planning to have your legal ceremony outdoors, ensure the location is licensed for civil marriages. In many cases, the legal ceremony may still need to take place under a licensed structure or indoors, with the celebration continuing outdoors.

Want to Learn More About Wedding Planning in North London?

If you’re just beginning to plan, you may also want to read: Planning a Wedding in North London: What Couples Should Know. This guide walks through the full process from timelines and budgeting to choosing the right setting.