Planning an Event During the Cost-of-Living Crisis: How Marquees Can Help You Stay on Budget

With the rising cost of living affecting households and businesses across the UK, it’s no surprise that many people are rethinking how they plan events.

Weddings, parties, corporate gatherings — they’re still important. People still want to celebrate, connect, and create memories. But budgets are tighter, and every decision matters more than ever.

At Zest Marquees, we understand this shift. The good news? Hosting a fantastic event doesn’t have to mean overspending. In fact, a marquee can often be one of the most flexible and cost-effective solutions available.

Here’s how.



💷 1. You Control the Budget

One of the biggest advantages of a marquee is flexibility.

Unlike fixed venues that often come with:

• Set packages
• Minimum spend requirements
• Corkage fees
• Limited supplier choices

A marquee allows you to choose where your budget goes.

You can:

• Select caterers that fit your price range
• Adjust guest numbers more easily
• Choose décor and extras based on your priorities

You’re not locked into someone else’s pricing structure.

🏡 2. Use a Space You Already Have

Hiring a traditional venue can be one of the biggest expenses.

With a marquee, you can host your event:

• In your own garden
• On private land
• At a community space

This can significantly reduce venue hire costs — freeing up budget for the parts of the event that matter most to you.

🎯 3. Scale Your Event Up or Down

Not every event needs to be huge to be memorable.

Marquees give you the freedom to:

• Host smaller, more intimate gatherings
• Adjust the size of your setup
• Create a great atmosphere without needing a large crowd

In many cases, smaller events feel more personal and enjoyable.

🍴 4. Flexible Catering Options

Food is often one of the highest costs — but it’s also one of the easiest areas to adapt.

With a marquee, you’re not tied to a fixed menu or price per head.

You can choose:

• Buffet-style catering
• Street food vendors
• BBQs or hog roasts
• Simple, high-quality menus

This flexibility helps you manage costs without compromising on experience.

💡 5. Spend Where It Matters Most

When budgets are tighter, it’s important to prioritise.

A marquee allows you to focus your spend on what your guests will remember:

• Atmosphere
• Comfort
• Entertainment
• Time spent together

You can keep things simple in some areas and invest more in others — creating a balanced, thoughtful event.

🤝 6. Honest Advice & Transparent Planning

During times like these, trust matters more than ever.

At Zest Marquees, we work with you to:

• Recommend practical, cost-effective options
• Avoid unnecessary extras
• Plan a setup that fits your budget

Our goal isn’t to oversell — it’s to help you create a great event that feels right for you financially.

🌟 Celebrations Still Matter

Even in challenging times, moments of celebration are important.

They bring people together, lift spirits, and create lasting memories.

The key isn’t spending more — it’s spending wisely.

✅ Final Thought

A cost-of-living crisis doesn’t mean cancelling your plans — it just means approaching them differently.

With flexibility, creativity, and the right support, you can still host an event that feels special without stretching your budget too far.

🎪 Thinking about an event this year?
Let’s talk about how we can make it work for you.

📞 Get in touch with our team today to discuss your plans.

🌐 Visit: www.zestmarquees.co.uk

Our team is ready to discuss your requirements today. Call 07533 023225 or email sales@zestmarquees.co.uk