When it comes to creating atmosphere in one of our celebration marquees, nothing has more impact than lighting. It sets the tone, shapes the space and adds character long after the sun goes down. From soft romantic glows to dramatic statement pieces, the right lighting can completely transform your marquee and elevate the entire celebration – and we can supply it all!
Here’s our guide to the most popular lighting options.
Why lighting matters
Unlike permanent venues, a marquee starts as a blank canvas. This is an advantage: you have full control over the mood, style and layout of your space. Lighting becomes a design tool, allowing you to:
- Highlight features (florals, entrances, bars, dancefloors)
- Create ‘zones’ throughout the marquee
- Add warmth and ambience as evening falls
- Make indoor to outdoor transitions feel seamless
- Add personality and character to your day
Well-considered lighting can be both practical and breathtaking.
Festoon lighting
Festoon lighting is a firm favourite for good reason. These strings of warm, soft bulbs bring instant charm to a marquee.
Festoon lighting works brillinatly both inside and out, helping tie your marquee setting together – and increase safety.
We like them
- Along the roofline for an ambient glow throughout the space
- Draped over tables for rustic or boho styling
- Creating outdoor walkways between the marquee, loos and bar
- Hung between poles or trees for a festival-style atmosphere
Elegant impact: Chandeliers
If you’re aiming for a classic, luxurious or romantic feel, chandeliers can make a striking centrepiece. Whether you choose traditional crystal, modern metal frames or floral-dressed styles, chandeliers bring height and drama to the marquee.
Consider using chandeliers:
- Over the top table as a focal point
- In the centre of the main marquee
- Above the dancefloor
- Clustered in groups for a statement feature
They also pair beautifully with draping and floristry.
Uplighting for colour, depth and drama
Uplighting washes light up the walls of your marquee, adding depth and atmosphere with minimal fuss. It’s also one of the most cost-effective ways to completely change the look of your space with coloured lenses or gels.
Why we love uplighting:
- Adds warmth to white marquee walls
- Creates a stunning dusk-to-evening transition
- Allows you to bring in your colour palette subtly
- Perfect for highlighting key areas
Neutral warm tones create a cosy feel, while soft pinks, greens or ambers add elegance without overwhelming the space – best of all is that you can change the colour throughout the day!
Fairy lights: a magical touch
Fairy lights are synonymous with romance and enchantment – and we have literally miles of them! They work beautifully layered with other lighting options and bring a soft sparkle to the marquee.
Fairy light ideas:
- Ceiling canopies for a starlit effect
- Wrapped around beams or poles
- Behind voile drapes for a dreamy backdrop
- Woven through greenery
They’re particularly popular for winter weddings or evening receptions.
And there are more…
We also offer pin spots and directional lighting highlight specific areas such as:
- Cake tables
- Floral installations
- Bars
- Speakers & bands
- Signage
- The dancefloor
They help photographers capture details beautifully and ensure no special feature gets lost once evening falls.
Transform your ideas…
The most successful marquee uses a combination of lights, each serving a different purpose. Treat lighting as a key part of your design, with each layer serving a different purpose, to make your celebration or wedding perfect from start to finish.
Your friendly team
We believe that planning any event or celebration should be stress-free, and we’re here to help make that happen. From your first enquiry, we’ll work with you to deliver your vision that feels effortless, personal, and truly unforgettable.
Get in touch with or friendly team on 01398 351210 or email enquiries@dsmarquees.co.uk to start planning.
From site visits to layout planning, furniture hire to finishing touches, we’ll be there to guide you every step of the way
