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A Cute British Wedding at St Mary’s Church in Stowmarket Followed by a DIY Marquee
We love this cute British wedding at St Mary’s Church at Haughley in Stowmarket, which was followed by a DIY marquee. We talked to Lisa and Neil from Lisa & Neil Photography, to get the story behind it…
Lisa and Neil wedding photography
Lisa and Neil wedding photography
Lisa and Neil wedding photography
“Yas and Jed celebrated their wedding on the 31st of August, 2024, with a beautiful ceremony at St Mary’s Church in Haughley, Stowmarket, UK, followed by a warm and joyous reception in a marquee set up in Yas’s parents’ garden.
The theme of the day was rustic and classic, perfectly blending elegance with countryside charm. Surrounded by family and friends, the couple exchanged heartfelt vows in the historic church before transitioning to the DIY marquee, which was adorned to reflect their timeless theme.
Lisa and Neil wedding photography
Lisa and Neil wedding photography
Lisa and Neil wedding photography
Lisa and Neil wedding photography
Lisa and Neil wedding photography
Lisa and Neil wedding photography
Lisa and Neil wedding photography
Lisa and Neil wedding photography
Lisa and Neil wedding photography
Guests enjoyed an atmosphere of love and celebration, with memorable moments including the first dance, the cutting of the cake, and plenty of laughter and joy shared throughout the evening. It was a day filled with personal touches and cherished memories, making it a truly unforgettable occasion.”
Lisa and Neil wedding photography
Lisa and Neil wedding photography
Lisa and Neil wedding photography
Lisa and Neil wedding photography
Wedding Suppliers
Photography: Lisa and Neil wedding photography
Venue: St Mary’s Church and Yas’s parents’ house
Hair: Makeup by Carlie
Florist: Tiger Lily Flowers Suffolk
Bridal Dress Shop: House of Snow Bridal
Makeup Artist: Makeup by Carlie
Cake Maker: Holly Bakes
Caterers: Florentina Events
Band: Cube Tuesdays
Useful Tips for Creating Your DIY Marquee For Your Wedding
Creating your DIY marquee for a wedding is a magical way to set the stage for your big day while showcasing your creativity. Over our 13 years as a wedding DIY bloggers, we’ve covered countless backyard celebrations, whimsical garden parties, and rustic farm weddings where couples built their marquees from scratch. Trust me, when it’s done right, the results are stunning—and the process? A memory in itself. Here’s my take on the process, peppered with tips, laughs, and some learned-the-hard-way wisdom.
Lisa and Neil wedding photography
Planning and Preparation: Laying the Groundwork (Literally)
First, think about your location. The marquee needs flat ground; uneven terrain will have you and your guests doing an unplanned limbo contest! One couple I worked with tried to set theirs up on a hill. Romantic? Sure. Practical? Not unless you enjoy watching chairs slide mid-toast.
Weatherproofing is a big deal too. If you’re marrying in a region where rain seems to stalk every outdoor event (looking at you, UK), invest in durable, waterproof materials. The marquee should fit your guest list and your vision. Whether you go for a vintage tent or a boho-chic tepee, having a clear plan ensures you’re not scrambling when your florist arrives.
Lisa and Neil wedding photography
Choosing Materials and Tools: A Test of Ingenuity
When building a DIY marquee, the materials you choose will make or break the project—sometimes literally. Heavy-duty canvas or tarpaulin works wonders for the cover. One bride in Manchester went eco-friendly, using an upcycled sailcloth. The result? Stunning, though sewing it together gave her arms a workout rivaling CrossFit.
For the frame, sturdy wooden poles or rented metal frames are ideal. Don’t skimp here; no one wants a marquee that resembles a house of cards when the wind blows. Keep your toolbox handy: hammers, a power drill, and zip ties are your new best friends. Oh, and if you’re in a pinch? Duct tape. It’s the unsung hero of DIY weddings.
Design and Decor: Let Creativity Take the Lead
Here’s where the fun begins! The marquee is your blank canvas. You can channel your inner Pinterest board and go all-out with cascading fairy lights, billowing drapes, and custom bunting. One of my favorite projects was a bride in Cornwall who crafted her marquee décor entirely from paper cranes. It took her months, but the symbolism—a nod to Japanese culture and the couple’s shared love of travel—was breathtaking.
Lisa and Neil wedding photography
Lighting plays a huge role, especially if your celebration stretches into the evening. Chandeliers add elegance, while lanterns give off a cozy glow. For flooring, you can roll out rustic carpets or lay wooden planks. One couple even left their marquee on grass for a casual vibe, although the dance floor turned into a bit of a Slip ‘N Slide after champagne made its rounds.
Assembly and Safety: Teamwork and Tension
Building a DIY marquee is like assembling IKEA furniture but with higher stakes. Enlist help—your best mates, siblings, anyone with a penchant for wielding tools. Start with the frame, secure the fabric, and take your time to ensure everything is taut. A sagging marquee doesn’t just look bad; it’s a recipe for disaster.
Safety-wise, don’t skimp on securing the structure with stakes or weights. I’ve seen wind turn a poorly-anchored marquee into an impromptu kite. A wedding in Brighton ended with their marquee in the neighbor’s garden—great icebreaker, though!
Budget Hacks: Saving without Sacrificing Style
Building a DIY marquee isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s also a great way to stretch your budget. Reuse items you already have—ladders make great frameworks for hanging lights. Check out local classifieds or online marketplaces for second-hand materials. I once sourced an entire marquee frame from a farmer in Yorkshire for under £100.
Collaborating with other DIY couples can also be a lifesaver. Borrow tools, split costs, and trade decor ideas—it’s like a secret club of budget-savvy wedding enthusiasts.
Reflections: A Labor of Love
Building your DIY marquee is more than a cost-saving venture; it’s a reflection of your shared journey. Every knot tied and pole secured represents the effort you and your partner are willing to invest—not just in the marquee, but in each other.
After over a decade of seeing countless DIY weddings, I’ve learned one thing: the imperfections make it perfect. The small hiccups (like when your uncle misplaces a hammer or the drapes hang a bit unevenly) are what make the day uniquely yours. So go ahead, roll up your sleeves, and create something unforgettable. And don’t forget to send me pictures—I love seeing the creativity of my readers come to life.
