Tent Sizing Advice
Not sure what size tent you need? Here's how to choose the right fit based on your guest numbers, event type, and layout plans.
Choosing the right size tent is one of the most important steps in planning an outdoor event. Too small, and things will feel cramped. Too large, and you risk losing atmosphere — or paying for space you don’t need. At Delightfully Lavish, we’re here to make it simple.
This guide will help you estimate your ideal tent size, based on your number of guests, your event layout, and the structure you’ve chosen. Whether you’re planning a wedding, party, corporate event, or festival, this is a great starting point — and we’re always happy to offer bespoke advice.
Step 1: Know Your Numbers
As a rough rule of thumb, here’s how much space you should allow per guest:
Standing (drinks/reception): 0.75 – 1 sqm
Seated at long tables: 1 – 1.25 sqm
Seated at round tables: 1.5 sqm
Seated dining + dance floor: 2 – 2.25 sqm
Example: For a wedding with 100 guests seated at round tables and space for dancing, you’ll need around 200–225 sqm of usable tent space.
Step 2: Consider Your Layout
Different events need different layouts — and that affects your space requirements. Think about whether your event includes:
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A bar or buffet area
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A dance floor or stage
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A lounge or chillout zone
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Catering tent or service area
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Photo booth, kids’ area, or extras
We’ll help you map these zones out inside one of our marquees, stretch tents, or yurts, or suggest a multi-tent layout using smaller structures like Pergolas and bell tents.
Step 3: Match Your Guest Count to the Right Tent
Here’s a quick guide to some of our most popular marquees & tents and their approximate capacities:
Tent Name
Size (m)
6m x 10m
12m x 12m
8m / 6m / 4m
3m x 3m / 4m x 4m
6m x 4m
18m x 12m
10m x 15m
Various
4m - 5m
Standing Guests
120
200
70 / 48 / 20
16
48
250
Up to 180
6 - 10
2 - 4
Seated Guests
60
160
50 / 30 / 10
10
24
200
Up to 150
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Note: Stretch tents are highly adaptable — they can be pitched high and open or low and enclosed, and can be joined together for additional space.
Step 4: Think Beyond the Tent
You’ll also want to allow for roping space (particularly with pole tents like Indian marquees) — typically around 1 metre clearance on each side. Don’t forget to account for walkways, service tents, and any finishing touches you plan to include.
If you're unsure how it all fits together, we’ll provide a suggested layout and site plan based on your venue and preferences.
Still Unsure? We Can Help.
We’ve worked on everything from small garden parties to 250-guest weddings, and can advise exactly what will work for your space and your plans. Explore our full range of marquees & tents, or get in touch for personalised tent sizing advice.
