1 October 2020 (updated 12 September 2026)

How To Have The Perfect Party With Your Rented Marquee

Plan a party in a hired marquee with a clear layout, catering area, lighting, toilets and delivery schedule. Practical advice from Grafton Hire.

Blue and white striped marquee set up on a sports oval

Once the marquee is chosen, the party still needs a workable layout and a plan for the day. Focus on the jobs that make guests comfortable and keep suppliers out of each other’s way.

Draw the layout before delivery

Mark the entrances, dining area, drinks service and dance floor. Leave room for people to move between them. Give the crew your guest count and the list of items going inside the marquee so the proposed layout can be discussed before installation.

Give food and drinks their own space

Place the serving area where queues will not block an entrance. Ask the caterer what they bring and what you need to hire. Catering equipment includes BBQs, spits, bain-maries, ovens, urns and cool rooms, with availability and equipment requirements checked for your date.

Sort out seating and tableware

Use the furniture and tableware list to count chairs, tables, glassware, crockery and cutlery. Include seats for guests who need a rest at a standing party. Confirm who is setting the tables and putting out the chairs; marquee installation does not include full furniture styling.

Think beyond the marquee walls

Plan the route from parking to the party and from the party to the toilets. Discuss portable toilets if the site’s facilities are not enough. Check the lighting and power plan for the evening with the relevant suppliers.

Give one person the delivery details

Have someone available to receive the equipment and answer site questions. Agree on delivery, installation and collection windows before the day. Grafton Hire installs the marquee and dance floor; furniture placement help can be requested when discussing delivery.

For a party in Grafton, Maclean, Yamba or Iluka, send the date, address and hire list. Get a quote or Call (02) 6643 2878.

  • Weddings
  • Marquees
  • Parties

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