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When it came to choosing their own wedding location, like many Kiwi couples, Sara and Jean wanted it to be in a place that was special to them. Getting married under the stars was their ultimate dream, so a clear marquee became the obvious choice considering New Zealand's unpredictable weather. As they started to look for clear marquees and other hire items, they realised that there were very little marquee choices in New Zealand and now was the style of furniture that they were after.

So, they decided to create the items they simply couldn't find themselves and also travel overseas to find the best quality clear marquees they could find. Jean as an engineer, and with a passion for building with steel and wood, jumped at the idea of hand crafting furniture. By providing tables and seating for their guests, as well as bar leaners and lots of other custom made furniture, this kickstarted the idea to start a wedding hire business, and so Twelve Tables was born!

We chatted with the rad couple about all things marquees, furniture and the other ingredients for an epic wedding day - which, judging by their wedding snaps to the left they seem to know a bit about!

1. What’s important when planning a marquee wedding?
Less is more. The beauty of a clear marquee is that your surroundings become part of your styling. This means you are no longer styling to hide certain elements of your venue, but complementing them with your personal touches. Choose your favourite vendors as soon as you have your venue in mind to avoid disappointment.

We think simple is best. Don’t feel like you need to add lots to keep up with the latest trends. If you are having a marquee wedding, embrace the scaffolding and frames of the marquee and use them to hang lights or floral installations from.

If the weather forecast is looking good, opt to have no sides on your marquee for an outdoor wedding experience. Or pull back the sides for an indoor, outdoor feel and close them later in the evening for warmth.

2. How would you describe the Twelve Tables approach?
We are genuinely as excited about your special day as you. We love to talk weddings and can help you with details you may not even know exist. We pride ourselves on providing a personable service where we go above and beyond to help our couples achieve their dream wedding. Floor plans, custom furniture, complete set up and dismantle, you name it. We personally know what it’s like to have amazing vendors at your wedding and the difference they can make to creating your special day.

3. How early do you need to book furniture / marquee?
We hate turning away couples that are set on having Twelve Tables as part of their special day. It’s not uncommon for us to be booked a year in advance especially for those busy months. As soon as you have a date in mind get in contact with your main suppliers. We happily “reserve dates” for couples so you can make the best decision for your day without feeling rushed. Don’t hesitate to get in touch we would love to hear from you!

4. What are the different options you provide for marquees?
We cater for small parties of 20 up to 300. We specialise in Clear Marquees first and foremost and we also have white roof panels available if you’re looking for something a little different.

5. What is your favourite wedding style / trend right now?
We love florals. There are so many talented florists in New Zealand that can help create magic. Hanging floral installations is our pick for summer. Along with one off custom pieces such as signs, desert walls and feature walls. Out with the “rustic look” of bunting, wooden rounds and mismatch furniture.

6. What do you love most about working in the wedding industry?
Love! We’re a pretty loved up team and we don’t think it gets any better than meeting couples and helping to create arguably one of the most important days of their life.

7. Why a marquee wedding over a venue?
Marquee weddings give you a blank canvas to be as creative as you like. Organising a marquee wedding means you have the luxury of choosing almost any location, you can hand pick your favourite vendors and party into the night without a 12:00am curfew!

Credits
Marquee and furniture: Twelve Tables
Photography: Melissa Mills / Images 1,4,5,6 - Captured By Keryn
Stylist: Two Foxes Styling & Prop Hire
Florist: Muck Floral