How to Keep Guests Comfortable at Outdoor Events

Winter might not be the first season that comes to mind when planning an outdoor event, but with the right preparation, your winter celebration can be just as enjoyable as any summer soirée. Whether it's a winter wedding, a Christmas party, or a corporate event, keeping your guests comfortable during the colder months is key to ensuring your event is a success.

Here’s how to create a warm, welcoming environment with the help of South East Marquees and our stunning range of marquees for hire:

The first step in planning a successful outdoor winter event is selecting the right marquee. Our Clear Span marquees are perfect for winter events, offering sturdy, weatherproof protection from the elements. These marquees are fully enclosed to block out the wind and rain, providing a safe and dry environment for your guests.

For added warmth and style, consider customising your marquee with gazebo linings, which help trap heat inside the structure while adding a touch of luxury to the space. Linings not only improve the insulation of your marquee but also enhance the overall aesthetic, making your event look and feel cosy despite the winter chill.

Heaters are a must for any outdoor winter event. At South East Marquees, we offer efficient marquee heaters that will keep your guests warm and comfortable throughout the day and night. Our heaters are strategically placed to distribute heat evenly across the marquee, ensuring that everyone stays warm without overheating certain areas.

For smaller, more intimate gatherings, consider adding portable heaters in seating areas and near the entrance. For larger events, our high-powered heaters can keep the entire marquee at a comfortable temperature, allowing your guests to relax and enjoy the occasion no matter how cold it gets outside.

Flooring is often overlooked, but it's crucial for keeping the cold at bay during winter events. Without proper flooring, cold air can seep in from the ground, leaving your guests feeling chilled. Our hard flooring options create a solid barrier between your guests and the cold ground, while our coconut matting adds a rustic, insulating layer to keep feet warm.

In addition to insulation, proper flooring helps create a smooth, even surface, making it easier for guests to move around the marquee in colder, potentially wet conditions.

Adding cosy touches to your event can make all the difference in creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Consider including comfy chairs and lounges with plush cushions and blankets, encouraging guests to relax and enjoy the event. Creating small seating areas with soft furnishings will make the space feel more intimate and comfortable.

You can also add soft lighting such as fairy lights, lanterns, and candles to enhance the cosy ambiance. These warm lighting elements not only add to the decor but also make the space feel snug and welcoming.

Nothing says comfort like a warm drink on a cold day! Setting up a hot drinks station with mulled wine, hot chocolate, and warm cider can be a great way to keep your guests warm from the inside out. For larger events, consider having heated bars or pop-up food stalls serving warm dishes like soups, stews, and roasted winter vegetables.

If your event is more formal, ensure that hot food is served as part of the dining experience, and place heated drinks on the tables to keep the warmth flowing throughout the meal.

While the marquee will be the central hub of warmth, some guests may need to venture outside during the event. Make sure you’ve planned for any outdoor areas by providing sheltered walkways or covered areas, such as gazebos or small tents. Placing marquee heaters near exits or gathering spots will keep guests comfortable even if they need to step outside.

Providing small touches like umbrellas or even hand warmers can also make a big difference, showing your guests that you’ve thought of their comfort at every step.

Winter doesn’t have to stop you from hosting a garden party. By choosing a well-insulated marquee, providing reliable heaters, and adding thoughtful touches like cosy furnishings and warm drinks, you can ensure your guests are comfortable and happy throughout your winter celebration.

Ready to plan your winter event? Contact South East Marquees today to discuss your marquee hire options and discover how we can help create a warm and welcoming atmosphere for your next outdoor event.