Outdoor weddings are a cherished tradition in Australia, offering couples the chance to exchange vows in stunning natural settings — whether that’s a sun-drenched beach, a serene vineyard, or a charming countryside paddock. If you’re dreaming of a wedding under a marquee surrounded by breathtaking scenery, Australia’s wide-open spaces and flexible options make it the perfect backdrop.
That said, hosting a marquee wedding comes with its own costs and logistical considerations. In this post, we’ll explore the average cost of renting a marquee, the factors that can influence pricing, and why a marquee wedding might not be the right fit for every venue.
What’s the average cost of a wedding marquee?
Couples in Australia can expect to spend an average of $2,500–$4,500 on a wedding marquee. However, the marquee alone won’t create the dream setting you’re imagining for your ceremony, dinner, or evening reception. To make it truly special and personalised to your style, you’ll also need to budget for additional decorations and essentials.
Here are some of the additional costs to consider beyond the marquee rental:
- Site rental: Free if you own the land or starting from $1,500+ if renting a venue with space for a marquee.
- Furniture rental: Tables, chairs, and linens typically cost $700+ depending on the guest count and style.
- Catering: Average catering starts at $25–$50 per guest, depending on menu choices.
- Restroom facilities: Portable restrooms or luxury restroom trailers can cost $200–$1,000+, depending on the style and number required.
- Staff: Servers, bartenders, and other staff members typically cost $150–$300 per person.
- Decor: Couples spend an average of $1,200–$2,000 on non-DIY wedding decor, including lighting, draping, and centerpieces.
- Power: Generator rentals for lighting, catering, and other needs usually start at $200+.
Do all types of marquee cost the same?
Due to the differences in style and size – which can affect storage, set up, take down and transportation – not all marquees cost the same to hire. There are several types of marquee that are often used at weddings, with each type suitable for a slightly different purpose. Just some of the tent types include:
- Pole marquees: Wooden poles support a canvas roof. They provide an elegant look for a more traditional wedding.
- Clearspan marquees: Modern and high-tech with a metal frame which allows for more flexibility. However, they’re also more expensive.
- Stretch tents: A popular choice with material – as the name suggests – stretched over internal poles.
- Tipis: Tipis are full of character, but creative use is important as interior space can be limited.
- Yurts: Yurts are constructed using circular wooden frames and can be visually striking, especially from the inside.
For something a little different, you could even hire a circus tent to really make sure your wedding is remembered for a long time to come.
What is the most commonly used marquee at a wedding?
Despite there being so many choices available, the traditional marquee remains a firm favourite thanks to its versatility, large capacity and highly customisable interior space.
What factors can affect the cost of hiring a wedding marquee?
On top of the type of marquee you decide to go for, there are many other factors that mean the price you pay may begin to creep up (and up and up if you’re after a lot).
Some of the factors that can affect the cost include:
- The size: The bigger the marquee the more you’re likely to pay.
- Location: Is the venue in a remote location? Does the space mean set up and take down will be difficult?
- Duration: If you need the marquee for multiple days then the cost will be higher than if you only need it for one.
- Date: If your wedding is taking place at peak times such as during the summer or at weekends the rates may be higher than off-peak times.
Is it cheaper to use a marquee over a traditional reception venue?
The average cost of a wedding venue is over double the cost of a tent. Initially, it may seem like a no-brainer that a marquee is a more budget-friendly option than a traditional venue. Here are a few ways a marquee may be a cheaper option:
- A greater level of flexibility when it comes to location, size and layout
- There are far lower rental costs
- Venues often have certain restrictions which marquees don’t
- Vendors can provide off-peak discounts
On paper, a marquee is a great option for couples with a smaller budget. But, before you start hammering tent pegs into the nearest field, there are additional costs to be aware of.
What are the potential additional costs?
When speaking to your chosen vendor, make sure you know exactly what you’re getting for the price you’re quoted. If you’re after a marquee and it just fits within your budget, then check it includes everything you’re hoping for – otherwise, you could be in for an unwelcome surprise.
For example, not all tents will be big enough for you, your guests AND catering, so will a second smaller marquee be required for the caterers? Similarly, what about a bar and a dance floor? Or lighting and heating? You may also need to hire a generator to make sure there’s power and toilets because…*ahem*. All of these additions will considerably bump up the cost, so if they’re needed make sure they’re factored into your budget before you hire your marquee.
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