What Makes a Good Marquee Event Host?
Hosting a marquee event is both exciting and a little daunting. Whether it’s a wedding, a garden party, or a corporate event, being the host comes with the responsibility of ensuring your guests are comfortable, engaged, and having a fantastic time.
But don’t worry! With a few helpful tips, you’ll be able to manage the flow, create a welcoming atmosphere, and be the kind of host everyone remembers fondly.
So, what makes a good marquee event host? Let’s find out!
A Warm Welcome Sets the Tone
First impressions count, and your role as a host starts the moment guests arrive. A warm and friendly welcome goes a long way toward making your guests feel comfortable and valued. Greet each guest personally (or assign someone to help if the group is large) and show them to the key areas of the event: the seating area, bar, and any special zones like a dance floor or buffet.
Top tip: Have a designated greeting area, perhaps near the entrance to your Clear Span marquee, where you or a co-host can be easily accessible to all incoming guests. A glass of welcome fizz or a soft drink is always a nice touch!
Keep the Flow Going
One of the keys to being a great marquee event host is ensuring that the event flows smoothly from one activity to the next. Whether it’s getting everyone seated for dinner or encouraging guests onto the dance floor, managing the event timeline is crucial to avoiding any awkward lulls.
Have a clear schedule for when the food will be served, speeches will take place, or activities like dancing will begin. Let your guests know what’s happening next in a relaxed and casual manner so no one feels rushed or left behind.
Top tip: Designate different zones in your marquee—such as the dance floor and bar area or a quiet seating section—so guests have various activities to enjoy throughout the event. This helps manage the crowd and keeps things moving effortlessly.
Guest Comfort is Key
If your guests are comfortable, they’re happy—and a happy crowd means a successful event. Pay attention to the little details that can make a big difference in comfort. Consider the weather: is it too hot or too cold? Add marquee heaters for chilly evenings or fans for warm afternoons. Also, make sure there are enough tables and chairs so everyone can relax and enjoy themselves.
Consider different seating arrangements, such as cocktail tables for mingling or lounge areas with comfy seating. Having a range of options allows guests to choose where they feel most comfortable.
Top tip: If your event is outdoors and the weather is unpredictable, ensure your marquee is equipped with hard flooring or other suitable marquee flooring options to keep your guests’ feet dry and comfortable, regardless of rain or shine!
Create a Welcoming Atmosphere
Your marquee should feel like a space that invites people to stay and enjoy. Pay attention to how you design the interior and atmosphere. The right lighting makes a huge difference: opt for soft, warm lighting like fairy lights or chandeliers for a more intimate event, or go bold with uplighters and colourful decor for a fun party vibe.
Decorations, flowers, and personal touches like photos or event themes help set the scene and make guests feel like they’ve stepped into a thoughtfully curated space. A well-decorated marquee adds to the event's wow factor!
Top tip: Don’t forget the music! Whether it’s a DJ, live band, or background playlist, having great music keeps the atmosphere lively and energetic throughout the day and night.
Engage with Your Guests
As the host, you set the tone for the entire event, so it’s important to interact with your guests. Move through the different areas of your marquee, checking in with people, starting conversations, and ensuring everyone is having a good time. It’s these little moments that can make guests feel welcome and appreciated.
If you have a large crowd, designate a co-host or a trusted friend who can help keep things running smoothly and step in to assist with managing guests.
Top tip: Introduce guests to each other! A bit of matchmaking between friends or family members can spark conversations and help everyone feel connected and comfortable.
Have a Plan for the Unexpected
Even the best-planned events can have a few surprises, but a good host is prepared for anything. Whether it’s a change in the weather or a last-minute adjustment to the schedule, being flexible and staying calm will help keep the event on track.
Top tip: Have a backup plan for things like weather changes. If you're outdoors, ensure the marquee is weatherproof, and keep umbrellas or an indoor space on hand just in case. A relaxed and organised host helps everyone feel at ease, even when the unexpected happens.
Being a good marquee event host is all about making sure your guests feel welcome, comfortable, and engaged. From managing the flow of the event to creating a warm and inviting atmosphere, a great host pays attention to the details and keeps the vibe positive throughout the day or night. With the right marquee setup, smart planning, and a personal touch, you’ll ensure your marquee event is a resounding success.
Ready to host the perfect marquee event? Contact South East Marquees today to learn how our marquees can help create the ideal venue for your special occasion! From Horley to Horsham and Lingfield, we're covering all of Surrey and Sussex!