When it comes to hosting outdoor events, such as weddings, milestone birthdays, corporate events or other special occasions, marquees offer a versatile solution. They provide shelter and an ambiance that can’t be beaten. Marquees come in many shapes and sizes. Two popular options are clearspan marquees and pole and canvas marquees. While both serve the same basic purpose, they differ significantly in terms of design, functionality, and suitability for various events.
Some couples and party organisers know instinctively what sort of marquee will match their vision. When I got engaged, pre Peacock and Bow, I knew straight away that the PVC look wasn't for me. I was guided by aesthetics more than anything else, but I soon found out that pole and canvas marquees are practical as well as beautiful. But, if you’re currently on the fence about which marquee is right for you, read on. In this article, we'll compare clearspan marquees and pole and canvas marquees to help you make an informed decision for your next event.
Clearspan marquees
Clearspan marquees, with their sleek and modern design, are widely recognised for providing open and unobstructed space. These structures are constructed with a frame made of aluminium or steel that supports a tensioned heavy duty PVC fabric cover. Here are the key features of clearspan marquees.
Clear and open space
The hallmark of clearspan marquees is their open clear space
The absence of internal poles or supports makes clearspan marquees a preferred choice for events where uninterrupted space is crucial, such as corporate events, trade shows and exhibitions
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Weather resistance
Clearspan marquees are engineered to withstand adverse weather conditions, including rain, wind, and even light snow
Their robust frame and fabric gives you peace of mind and makes them a reliable option for year-round events
Customisation
These marquees can be customised with various interior options, such as flooring, lighting, and decor, to suit the theme and style of your event
Most providers give clients the option of having the marquee lined or unlined, If left unlined the metal frame is visible, which may not be to everyone’s taste
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Ease of installation
Clearspan marquees are relatively easy to set up and can be installed quickly compared to traditional pole and canvas marquees
This makes them a popular choice for DIY weddings
Durability
The materials used in clearspan marquees are typically durable, so providers often use them for multiple events over many years
This contributes to their cost effectiveness and often means marquee hire costs are lower than other types of marquee
Pole and canvas marquees
Pole and canvas marquees, in contrast to clearspan models, exude a traditional and rustic charm. They have a timeless appeal that can't be matched. These marquees consist of a natural cotton canvas fabric cover supported by a network of wooden central poles and guy ropes. They are packed with exquisite detail and come with some unique characteristics.
Aesthetic appeal
Pole and canvas marquees offer a more traditional and rustic look, which can be perfect for events with a vintage or bohemian theme, such as outdoor weddings and garden parties
Our pole and canvas marquees are manufactured by Wills Marquees
They are handcrafted at the Wills workshop in Yorkshire by dedicated craftspeople, using time honoured techniques and the finest materials
From the hand turned wooden finials, to the hand sewn flags atop each king pole, every detail of our pole and canvas marquees ooze quality and class
Centre poles
These marquees rely on central supporting poles, or king poles, to hold up the canvas canopy
These can limit the usable space and obstruct sight-lines
They can provide a stunning focal point when dressed with our flower rings or flanked by trees
Weather considerations
Pole and canvas marquees provide more than adequate shelter in any weather
The natural cotton canvas is weather-resistant and roll down clear panoramic walls keep the elements out without compromising the view
Here at Peacock and Bow we also provide additional precautions in adverse weather conditions
To find out more read our blog post on how rainproof pole and canvas marquees are
Customisation
Although they don't offer the vast expanse of empty space that you get with clearspan marquees, pole and canvas marquees are still versatile when it comes to customisation
Their simple and elegant design is as perfectly compatible with a rustic festival theme, as it is with a sophisticated and elegant concept
The size and layout can be adapted to meet your preferences
At Peacock and Bow we offer a curated range of high quality and stunning furnishings such as lighting and decor, various styles of tables and chairs, marquee flooring, dancefloors, staging and facilities so you can craft the marquee event of your dreams
Installation time
Setting up a pole and canvas marquee takes knowledge, experience and a top notch team of dedicated and passionate people
Luckily, Peacock and Bow have all three in abundance
To find out exactly how we roll check out our article ‘When are you putting the pole and canvas marquee up?’
Choosing a clearspan or pole and canvas marquee for your event
The choice between clearspan and pole and canvas marquees ultimately hinges on the nature of your event, your aesthetic preferences, and your practical requirements. To help you make an informed decision, let's explore various event scenarios and consider which marquee type may be better suited.
Weddings
Clearspan marquees
Clearspan marquees are an excellent choice for weddings, especially really big ones!
Their unobstructed space allows for creative seating arrangements, dance floors, and showstopping decor installations
Their weather resistance ensures your big day won’t be ruined by stormy weather (although we’re actually big fans of a dramatic weather backdrop to nuptials!)
Pole and canvas marquees
These are well-suited for intimate weddings in picturesque outdoor settings
They look stunning in private gardens, the grounds of stately homes and historic buildings, farmland and more
The central poles can be adorned with decorations such as dressed flower rings, and make a stunning focal point
Larger weddings with extensive seating requirements can be catered for with two or more marquees connected with colonnades and spill out areas
Corporate events
Clearspan marquees
Clearspan marquees are the go-to option for corporate events, trade shows, and conferences
Their modern and professional appearance, along with the ability to customise the interior to match a company's branding, make them ideal for such occasions
Pole and canvas marquees
The laid back luxe of pole and canvas marquees lends itself perfectly to casual company gatherings or team-building events
Glamourous industry events and celebrations can be held under the stylish canopy of the marquee’s classic design
Read how luxury brand Metier celebrated their fifth anniversary in style with a Peacock and Bow marquee
Garden parties
Clearspan marquees
While clearspan marquees can be used for garden parties, they could be a bit on the formal side for a casual outdoor gathering
Pole and canvas marquees
These traditional marquees are an excellent fit for garden parties, particularly when you want to create a vintage or bohemian atmosphere
They’re natural cotton canopies and wooden poles scream quintessential English country garden
The rustic charm of pole and canvas marquees complements the outdoor setting, and their aesthetic appeal adds a unique touch to the event
Exhibitions and trade shows
Clearspan Marquees
Clearspan marquees are the preferred choice for exhibitions and trade shows
Their open design, modern appearance, and flexibility for interior customisation make them a top pick for such events
Pole and canvas marquees
The unique style of these marquees could be well suited to exhibitions and trade shows for certain industries such as:
Horticulture
Arts and heritage
Food and drink
Agriculture
Antiques
Eco-friendly and sustainable industries
Historical reenactments
Clearspan marquees
Clearspan marquees are generally not suitable for historical reenactments, as their metal and PVC materials might look a tad inauthentic
Pole and canvas marquees
Often the preferred choice for historical reenactments, pole and canvas marquees have the classic look to create the atmosphere required for such olde worlde shenanigans
A grand medieval joust at Lincoln Castle. Photo credit - Lincolnshire Live
Choosing the right marquee
The choice between clearspan and pole and canvas marquees depends on the nature of your event, the look and feel you envision and your practical needs.
If you’re more inclined towards modern spaces and you want to keep costs down, clearspan marquees are the way to go. They are perfect for corporate events, trade shows and any event that requires a professional and polished appearance.
On the other hand, if you're looking for something unique, traditional, rustic, or vintage and love the idea of wooden king poles adorned with flower rings, pole and canvas marquees will bring the timeless elegance you want for your outdoor event.
Both clearspan and pole and canvas marquees have their strengths, although they are very different choices. Your decision should align with the specific needs and your vision for your event. Whether you opt for the sleek and versatile clearspan marquee or the unbeatable charm of the pole and canvas marquee, your event is sure to be a memorable and successful occasion.
If you want to know more about our pole and canvas marquees, give us a call and we’d be delighted to talk through your ideas and how we can make them come to life.