“DIY Dream or Logistical Nightmare? What You Need to Know Before Planning Your Marquee Wedding”
The idea of a marquee wedding is captivating – a stunning blank canvas set against a backdrop that’s uniquely yours. For couples across Bundaberg, Fraser Coast and Regional Queensland, dreaming of a personalised celebration, perhaps even hoping to manage their budget creatively, the DIY marquee option often feels like the ultimate dream.
But here’s the catch: that initial marquee hire quote is usually only the beginning. While it gives you the marquee and some basics, it leaves out everything else that actually makes a wedding work. And it’s those missing details that can quickly turn a dreamy vision into a logistical juggling act.
In The Grove’s 15mtr x 10mtr Hip Sided Marquee
What’s Really Included in a Marquee Quote?
A typical marquee hire in Queensland for around 60–100 guests often includes: - The marquee structure itself - Basic or no flooring (matting laid on the ground) - Simple internal lighting (festoon or string lights) - One entrance/exit - Simple fabric linings - Installation and dismantling.
It’s a fantastic start – but the marquee is still just an empty shell. To turn it into a functional wedding space, you’ll need much more.
Hire Marquee
Filling the Space: Furniture & Styling
Once you’ve got the shell, you still need to fill it with everything: - Dining tables and chairs - Bar tables and stools - Cake table, gift table, and signing table - Lounge furniture for a relaxed zone - Crockery, cutlery, linen, and glassware - Outdoor furniture, barrels, stools and dry bars
Every single piece is another hire item, another supplier, another delivery to coordinate.
Stylish Table Settings By In The Grove
Flooring Fit for a Wedding
That basic matting might be fine for flat, dry grass, but it quickly becomes impractical: - Uneven ground leads to wobbly tables and chairs. High heels sink, and basic matting isn’t made for dancing. Wet weather means damp floors and mud seeping through.
The solution? A solid timber floor plus a dedicated dance floor. Essential, but a major additional cost.
Basic Hire Flooring
Powering the Party
A wedding needs far more power than a 240V socket can provide: - Catering – ovens, fridges, hot box, gas burners or BBQs - Entertainment – DJs, bands, microphones, speakers - Lighting – chandeliers, feature lighting, outdoor safety lighting - Luxury Restrooms – flushing toilets (1 pan per 40 guests), mirrors, air conditioning - Bar Service – drink tubs, cool rooms, and ice storage
Most marquee weddings require a 30–35 KVA generator (sometimes two, plus fuel and an electrician). Another major cost, and another supplier for you to manage.
Catering Setup for Offsite Caterers
Catering & Bar Infrastructure
Your caterer can’t just “set up in the marquee.” They need: - A separate catering marquee with lighting and power - Access to running water (or hired water tanks/pumps) - Waste management solutions - Ovens, refrigeration, prep tables, and staff
And don’t forget the bar: - A mobile cool room or multiple eskies - Bar counters and glassware - 20kg of ice per 10 guests (yes, really)
Dishes Prepared by Offsite Catering
Bar Setup with RSA Staff
Comfort for Your Guests
Marquee linings look beautiful but don’t regulate temperature: - Winter nights require heating - Summer weddings often need industrial fans
Both are separate hires, both draw heavily on power, and both add to your budget.
Silk Wall and Ceiling linings
Peace of Mind vs Project Management
A DIY marquee wedding can be rewarding – but only if you’re prepared for the immense time, budget, and logistics it requires. If your dream is to arrive on your wedding day feeling calm, refreshed, and ready to celebrate with your family and friends, then a full-service venue like In The Grove is the most priceless investment you can make.
Because at the end of the day, the true luxury isn’t the marquee – it’s the freedom to be fully present in every moment of your wedding.
At In The Grove, you have one experienced team who know how to deliver seamless weddings every weekend. Located just 10 klms north of Bundaberg, In The Grove has become a favourite wedding destination for couples across Queensland, from Rockhampton to the Sunshine Coast and beyond.
Our Friendly and Attentive Staff
DIY vs Full-Service: What’s Really Involved?
Here’s a quick snapshot of what couples often face when weighing up a DIY marquee wedding against a full-service venue like In The Grove:
FAQ: Marquee Weddings in Bundaberg
Q: How much does a marquee wedding cost in Queensland?A DIY marquee wedding for 80–100 guests can easily cost between $25,000–$35,000, once you factor in hire, power, toilets, catering infrastructure, styling, and staff.
Q: Is a DIY marquee wedding cheaper than a venue? Not usually. Many couples are surprised to find that by the time all hidden costs are added, DIY is more expensive than choosing a full service venue.
Q: What’s available in a full-service marquee venue like In The Grove?- Permanent marquee with flooring & outside dance floor under the stars - Ceremony & reception furniture, décor, lighting, linen, glassware- Toilets & kitchen facilities- Bar service, cool room, ice & RSA staff- Full team for setup, pack-down, and coordination
Q: Why choose In The Grove over a DIY marquee hire? Because instead of being a project manager on your wedding day, you can relax, enjoy, and actually celebrate. Our team handles everything from start to finish so you’re stress-free and fully present.
In The Grove – A Bundaberg Marquee Wedding Destination Alternative
· Catering & Bar Service: From canapés to mains, plus full bar facilities with RSA-trained staff.
· Permanent Infrastructure: Luxury restrooms, kitchen space, ample power, cool room.
· Furniture & Styling: Ceremony seating, dining tables, lounges, bars, décor, and lighting – all included and styled.
· Staffing & Logistics: Our team sets up, serves, packs down, and coordinates your day from start to finish.
No cool room hire. No generator contracts. No midnight pack down. Just a wedding that flows effortlessly.
Ready to Plan?
Ready to plan your wedding without the stress? Explore our Wedding Packages or Contact us today at info@inthegrove.com.au to arrange a visit followed by a personalised quote and discover how effortless your day can be.