Marquee weddings have exploded in popularity, offering couples a unique and highly personalized way to celebrate their special day. Creative planner Susie Evans of Susie Evans Wedding and Events Co specializes in these bespoke events, transforming simple outdoor scenes into stunning, luxurious celebrations that reflect the individual personalities of the couples she works with. This kind of event allows for incredible creativity and flexibility, but also brings its own set of unique challenges. In our recent episode, we are thrilled to delve deep into the world of marquee weddings, uncovering the secrets Randall Evans, who has a prestigious clientele that includes celebrities and royal families, uses to make each wedding memorable.
The journey to building the perfect marquee wedding starts with understanding the couple’s vision and the logistics required to bring it to life. For Susie, this journey began 14 years ago when she turned her love for wedding planning into a career, diving headfirst into the industry with a diploma in event planning. Through her vast experience, she has honed her skills, particularly in managing the logistics that come with marquee weddings – an undertaking that can be particularly complex. From coordinating with numerous suppliers to dealing with the unpredictability of the weather, each step requires careful consideration and expertise.
One of the standout features of marquee weddings is the personalization they afford. Susie emphasizes that these events serve as a canvas for couples, allowing them to inject their personalities into every detail. Whether that means choosing their own caterer or selecting unique décor, creating a bespoke experience attuned to the couple’s lifestyle is essential. However, it is vital that clients understand the associated costs; while they may save on venue fees, the overall expenses can be significantly higher due to the myriad logistics and elements needed to create a stunning marquee event.
The aesthetic created within a marquee is just as essential as the logistics. Lighting plays a pivotal role in setting the right mood and transforming the space from day to night. Susie notes that by layering different lighting techniques, from soft ambient colors to vibrant hues for the party atmosphere, she can enhance the overall guest experience. Moreover, strategic placement of furniture and décor is crucial for creating distinct areas within the marquee, which helps to break up the space and encourage social interaction among guests.
Planning a marquee wedding is no small feat, and the learning process often involves overcoming various obstacles, particularly concerning weather contingency plans, technical specifications, and ensuring that the venue complies with local laws and regulations. For couples and planners alike, having a backup generator, proper flooring, and other contingencies in place can make or break the event. Susie advises taking time to think through these logistics carefully, learning from past experiences to ensure the event is seamless.
In approaching the design process, Susie encourages incorporating immersive experiences that engage guests beyond the typical wedding format. The goal is not only to provide a beautiful setting but to create lasting memories and unique experiences from arrival to farewell. This could involve performances, interactive setups, or even themed décor that resonates with the couple’s story. By highlighting Susie’s expertise and unique approach, we equip aspiring wedding planners with the insights needed to navigate this evolving market successfully.
Overall, marquee weddings represent a thriving niche in the wedding industry that allows for unparalleled creativity, deep personalization, and unforgettable moments. Couples venturing into this domain will find that while the journey may not always be easy, the result will undoubtedly be a celebration reflective of their love story and unique lifestyle—forging connections that will last a lifetime.
Alex & Justin’s wedding, wedding planner & stylist: Jac Bowie, Photo by Ed Sloane
