One of the most delightful trends I’ve seen evolve in recent years is the growing popularity of weekend weddings here in the UK, drawing inspiration from our friends across the pond. American-style customs such as the rehearsal dinner, welcome parties, and Sunday brunches are weaving their way into British marquee weddings, creating truly memorable experiences that go far beyond the wedding day itself.
When I first started planning luxury marquee weddings, a single day of celebration was often the norm. But now, more and more of my couples are choosing to turn their wedding into a whole weekend affair. And I must say, I love this approach. A marquee wedding is the ultimate blank canvas, and spreading the celebrations over a few days allows couples to create something deeply personal and wonderfully immersive, with space for guests to really relax, reconnect, and savour the experience.
Let’s start with the Friday night gathering. Traditionally, the Americans host a rehearsal dinner the night before the wedding and have an intimate event bringing together close family and the bridal party. While we don’t often have a ceremony rehearsal in quite the same way, many of my couples now opt for a relaxed Friday evening get-together. It might be a stylish countryside supper, a candlelit drinks party under the stars, or even a casual pizza truck and cocktails affair. The Friday gathering sets the tone for the weekend: warm, welcoming and joyfully anticipatory.
Of course, Saturday remains the focal point – a beautifully curated marquee wedding with all the romance, refinement and attention to detail that you would expect. But after the excitement of the wedding day, it’s the Sunday brunch or BBQ that guests truly cherish. There’s something rather special about gathering again the following morning (or afternoon!) to share stories from the night before over Bloody Marys and bacon rolls. Whether it’s a relaxed brunch on the lawn, a barbecue with lawn games, or even a pool party for the more adventurous, this final event rounds off the weekend perfectly.
Lucy Davenport Photography
For those hosting marquee weddings at family homes or country estates, this weekend structure works beautifully. Guests can stay nearby in charming pubs, local hotels or glamping villages, and it creates a real sense of community and shared celebration.
At the heart of it all is this: weddings are, ultimately, about bringing people together. In a fast-paced world, how precious it is to slow down and savour not just a fleeting day, but an entire weekend with the people you love most.
If you’re dreaming of a marquee wedding that’s more than a single day: a full weekend celebration, rich in warmth, joy and unforgettable moments, I’d love to help you bring that vision to life.