One of the best things about hosting your wedding in a tent is the freedom it gives you. No fixed walls, set layout or decoration rules you have to follow.
Just a space that can become exactly what you want it to be.
Whether you’re planning something relaxed and rustic or elegant and formal, one of our saddlespan tents gives you the flexibility to build your wedding around your style, not the other way around.
So where do you start…
Start with the structure, not the styling
Before choosing colours or centrepieces, take a step back and look at the space itself.
Think about:
- Where guests will enter
- Where key moments will happen (top table, dance floor, bar)
- How people will move through the space
Getting the layout right first makes everything else much easier. It also helps avoid overcrowding or awkward empty areas later on.
Once your layout is decided , the decorating decisions start to fall into place naturally.
Choose a clear theme (and stick to it!)
A wedding tent works best when everything feels cohesive.
That doesn’t mean it has to be complicated. In fact, simple themes often work best:
- Rustic and relaxed
- Modern and minimal
- Classic and elegant
- Festival-style and informal
Your theme will guide everything else; from furniture choices to lighting and finishing touches.
If you’re ever unsure, it’s usually better to do fewer things well than try to include everything.
Lighting makes the biggest difference
If there’s one element that completely transforms a tent, it’s lighting.
During the day, you’ll want something functional and soft. By evening, that same space should feel warmer and more atmospheric.
Popular options include:
- Festoon lighting for a relaxed feel
- Fairy lights for something more romantic
- Statement chandeliers for a more formal look
Lighting can also help define different areas within the tent, especially useful for larger layouts.
Don’t overlook flooring
It might not be the most exciting decision, but it’s one of the most important.
Flooring helps:
- Keep guests comfortable
- Protect against mud or uneven ground
- Tie the overall look together
Wooden flooring works well for rustic styles, while neutral carpets can soften the space for more formal setups.
Or, if you’re going for a more laid-back feel, you might choose to keep the grass.
Use fabric to soften the space
Tents can feel quite open and structural on their own, so fabric is a simple way to add warmth.
Draping across the ceiling or around key areas can:
- Soften the structure
- Add texture
- Create a more intimate feel
Even small touches, like table linens or chair coverings, can make a noticeable difference.
Bring in height and focal points
A well-decorated tent isn’t just about what’s on the tables.
Think vertically:
- Hanging florals or greenery
- Statement lighting features
- Decorative installations above the dance floor
These elements draw the eye upwards and help the space feel more complete.
Keep guest experience front of mind
It’s easy to focus on how everything looks but how it feels matters just as much.
Consider:
- Temperature (heating or ventilation)
- Clear walkways
- Easy access to key areas
A well-decorated tent should feel comfortable and easy to move around, not just visually impressive.
The finishing touches
Once the main elements are in place, it’s the smaller details that bring everything together:
- Table settings
- Signage
- Personal touches that reflect the couple
These don’t need to be elaborate, just thoughtful.
A space that’s entirely yours
At the end of the day, decorating a wedding tent is about making the space feel like yours. That’s the real advantage of hosting a wedding in one of our saddlespan tents. You’re not adapting to a venue, you’re creating one.
