Hiring a marquee seems simple enough: choose a size, pick a date, and let the party begin. But in reality, it’s one of those event decisions where the smallest oversight can have the biggest impact. From underestimating weather conditions to misjudging the ground, these are mistakes that can turn an exciting celebration into a stressful situation. The good news? With a little foresight and advice from professionals like Brisbane Party Hire, you can avoid all the common pitfalls and make sure your marquee setup is flawless, safe, and stunning.

Let’s explore the most common mistakes people make when hiring a marquee and how to avoid them for a smooth and successful event.

Ignoring the Ground Beneath the Glamour

It’s easy to focus on how the marquee will look, but the most important detail is actually what’s underneath it. A marquee needs a stable, level surface to ensure the structure is secure and comfortable for guests. Setting up on uneven or soft ground can lead to sagging floors, wobbly furniture, and even safety risks if heavy winds or rain hit unexpectedly.

Before hiring, always inspect your venue and discuss the site conditions with your supplier. Ask whether they’ve set up marquees in similar environments, whether it’s a sloped garden, a paddock, or a paved car park. A professional company like Brisbane Party Hire will conduct a proper site check, recommend the right flooring, and ensure your marquee stands firm, rain or shine. It’s the foundation of every great event, literally and figuratively.

Underestimating the Weather (and Overestimating the Marquee)

Australia’s weather is as unpredictable as it is beautiful. Many people assume marquees can withstand anything nature throws at them, but that’s not always true. The wrong type of marquee or lack of weatherproofing can quickly ruin an event, resulting in leaking roofs, flapping walls, or overheated guests.

Always plan for the worst while hoping for the best. For summer events, choose a marquee with proper ventilation or include fans and shade options. For cooler months or potential rain, make sure sidewalls and flooring are included to keep everyone dry and comfortable. Don’t forget to consider where rainwater will drain or how the wind flows through your site. A professional hire team can help tailor your setup with the right accessories and weatherproofing for your season and location.

Choosing Style Over Substance

Pinterest and Instagram are full of breathtaking marquee setups, but focusing only on aesthetics can lead to disappointment. Some cheap or lightweight marquees may look beautiful in pictures but lack the durability or safety ratings needed for real-world events. The result is a marquee that can’t handle the wind, struggles with uneven ground, or just doesn’t feel sturdy enough to relax under.

Instead, balance beauty with practicality. High-quality marquees not only look elegant but are also engineered to withstand weather and weight. When you hire from an experienced provider, they’ll offer options that complement your theme while meeting safety standards. Ask about the materials used, the age of their equipment, and how it’s maintained. A reputable company will always prioritise structure and reliability before showy design, and you’ll thank yourself on event day when everything runs smoothly.

Forgetting the Fine Print

It’s easy to get excited about a quote that looks affordable until the extra fees appear. Many first-time marquee hirers don’t realise that the initial price often excludes delivery, setup, flooring, lighting, or even the labour required to dismantle the tent afterward. Others forget about local council permits or noise restrictions that could apply to outdoor structures.

Before you sign any contract, go through every line with care. Ask what’s included in the total cost and what isn’t. Clarify setup and pack-down times, and confirm whether power supply, flooring, or sidewalls are part of the deal. With transparent communication and a company that values honesty, you’ll avoid unexpected bills later. Brisbane Party Hire, for instance, prides itself on clear pricing and genuine advice, ensuring your budget works for you, not against you.

Overlooking Lighting and Power Needs

Even the most beautiful marquee can fall flat without the right lighting. Many hosts forget that marquees don’t come pre-lit, meaning you’ll need to plan power sources, cable management, and lighting design in advance. Without this, your event could look dull once the sun goes down or become a safety hazard due to poorly placed cables and lights.

Think of lighting as both functional and atmospheric. Start by mapping out where key areas like dining, dancing, or catering will be, and ensure they’re properly lit. Soft fairy lights, festoon bulbs, or chandeliers can add charm, while spotlights or floodlights are practical for safety and visibility. Always use professional-grade equipment, and if possible, hire a generator or confirm power supply from nearby buildings. A well-lit marquee isn’t just beautiful, it’s safe and inviting for your guests.

Not Measuring Up – Literally

A marquee that’s too small can make guests uncomfortable, while one that’s too large can feel empty and waste money. Getting the right size is more complicated than it sounds because you need to account for furniture, walkways, stages, dance floors, and catering setups, not just the guest count.

As a rule of thumb, calculate about 1.2 square metres per seated guest or 0.75 for standing events. But these numbers change depending on your setup. Always provide your hire company with a detailed floor plan or event vision so they can recommend the perfect marquee size. Brisbane Party Hire helps clients visualise layouts and choose configurations that balance comfort, aesthetics, and efficiency. With precise measurements and professional guidance, you’ll avoid overcrowding or awkward empty spaces.

Leaving It Too Late

One of the most common mistakes is waiting too long to book. Marquees are in high demand, especially during wedding season or around holidays, and the best options are often reserved months in advance. Leaving it to the last minute limits your choices, drives up costs, and can lead to rushed installations.

To avoid disappointment, start planning your marquee hire as soon as your date and location are confirmed. Early booking gives you access to a wider range of sizes, styles, and accessories, plus enough time for site inspections and weather planning. Remember, a marquee isn’t just a tent, it’s a full event structure that needs professional setup and coordination. With enough lead time, your hire team can tailor everything to perfection, ensuring a stress-free event day.

Forgetting the Human Touch

Finally, perhaps the biggest mistake is forgetting that marquee hire isn’t just about structures, it’s about service. The right company won’t just deliver a marquee; they’ll listen to your ideas, understand your vision, and help you bring it to life.

Choosing a local, community-focused team like Brisbane Party Hire means you’re working with people who genuinely care about your event’s success. As a family-owned business, they take pride in every setup, no matter how big or small. Whether you’re planning a corporate launch or a backyard celebration, they’ll work within your budget and offer creative solutions that reflect your personality and style.

The human connection makes all the difference, not just in problem-solving but in creating a memorable, stress-free experience. When you hire a marquee from professionals who listen and guide you with care, you’re not just renting a structure, you’re investing in peace of mind.

Hiring a marquee can be one of the best decisions you make for your event if you do it right. Avoiding these common mistakes will help you stay organised, save money, and create a setting that truly shines. From the ground beneath your feet to the glow of the lights above, every detail matters. And when you partner with experienced professionals who understand both logistics and design, your event will unfold exactly as you imagined, maybe even better.

For residents in Ipswich, Brisbane, and beyond, Brisbane Party Hire remains the trusted choice for marquee and event hire. With local expertise, honest advice, and an unwavering commitment to quality, they help transform any space into something unforgettable. So before you book your next marquee, remember, it’s not just about the tent. It’s about the team that stands behind it.