How Many Tipis Do I Need for My Wedding | Tipi Hire Devon Cornwall Somerset
How many tipis do I need for my wedding in Devon, Cornwall, Dorset or Somerset?
One of the first questions couples ask when planning a tipi wedding is how many tipis they actually need.
It is also the question most often underestimated.
At Hapikata we provide Nordic tipi hire across Devon, Cornwall, Dorset, Somerset and beyond and we see the same issue every season. Couples plan around guest numbers alone and forget everything else that has to fit inside the space.
If you get this wrong, the day feels cramped and chaotic. If you get it right, the wedding flows naturally from start to finish.
This guide explains what different tipi setups really work for and helps you avoid the most common mistakes. Use this guide alongside packages page to understand costs.
What one Nordic tipi works for in real life
A single large Nordic tipi is approximately 10.3 metres in diameter.
In practical terms, one tipi is suitable for
• Up to 60 guests seated with tables and chairs or benches
• Around 70-80 guests if using benches only and keeping layouts tight
• Standing drinks receptions for up to 80 guests
• Minimal furniture and no fire pit inside
What one tipi does not work for
• Wedding breakfast and evening party in the same space
• 80 plus guests seated
• A bar, dance floor and fire pit all together
If you are choosing one tipi purely to reduce costs, it is important to understand the compromise. Tight layouts lead to blocked walkways, queues at the bar and guests standing with nowhere to sit.
Two tipis for a wedding. The most common choice
Two joined tipis are the most popular option for weddings across Devon and Cornwall.
This setup works well for
• 60 to 80 seated guests
• Wedding breakfast in one tipi and evening dancing in the other
• A proper bar area without restricting movement
Two tipis give you flexibility. Spaces can change through the day without having to clear everything out. Guests move easily rather than being funnelled into one overcrowded area.
If you are planning speeches, a band or a DJ, two tipis make the day run far more smoothly.
Three tipis for comfort, flow and flexibility
Three tipis are often assumed to be excessive. In reality, they are about comfort rather than scale.
Three tipis are ideal for
• 90 to 150 guests
• Separate areas for dining, dancing and bar or chill out space
• A full size dance floor without sacrificing seating
• Fire pit and lounge furniture
• Wet weather plans that do not involve stress
This setup creates a relaxed atmosphere where nothing feels rushed or squeezed. It is the option most couples tell us they are glad they chose once the day arrives.
Furniture has a bigger impact than guest numbers
Furniture is usually the reason couples need more tipis than expected.
Tables and chairs take up more space than most people realise. Benches are more space efficient and more cost effective but still require room for access and movement.
Fire pits also reduce usable floor space once safe distances are allowed.
If you want
• Long banquet tables
• A bar inside the tipis
• A dance floor that actually fits your guests
• Lounge furniture
You will need more space than guest numbers alone suggest.
Catering tents and additional structures
Your caterers should not be working out of your main tipi.
For most tipi weddings in Devon we recommend a separate catering tent positioned behind or beside the tipis. This keeps service smooth and avoids noise, clutter and foot traffic through your main space.
This does not usually change the number of tipis you need but it does affect site layout and access which is why we always review site details carefully.
Why couples underestimate tipi numbers
Online images can be misleading. Many show styled shoots or empty tipis without guests, bars or catering equipment.
On a real wedding day you also have
• Staff
• Equipment
• Speakers and lighting
• Heaters
• Bags and coats
• Guests moving at the same time
All of this needs space.
Choosing too few tipis is the single biggest mistake we see and it is not something that can be fixed on the day.
Our honest advice on choosing your tipi setup
If you are deciding between squeezing everything into fewer tipis or adding extra space, choose the extra space.
It improves guest comfort. It improves the flow of the day. It reduces stress for everyone involved.
If you are planning a tipi wedding in Devon, Cornwall, Dorset or Somerset and want advice specific to your venue and guest numbers, get in touch and we will be happy to talk it through properly.