Originating from Sweden, the kåta tipis were the homes of the Sami people of Lapland for many years, and were designed to withstand the harshest of environments. The directors of World Inspired Tents, Edward and Donna Wright, came across the tents after purchasing a smaller camping kåta from Tentipi for their honeymoon tent. They fell in love with the larger structures and became convinced there was a place for the beautiful tents in the wedding industry.

“The first impression of the tipis is truly unforgettable,” comments Edward. “We were speechless when we first saw the tipis and we know that our passion for them is shared with all the guests and couples who have experienced a tipi celebration as well. The atmosphere the tipis create is truly unique.”


Wedding Marquee Devon by World Inspired Tents - Douglas Slocombe Photography

What’s more, the appeal of these distinctive structures is in keeping with the growing trend for weddings to have that bespoke factor. “With more people going to marquee weddings each year, we know how important it is to be different and our tipis offer a unique, practical and visually stunning alternative to a standard marquee.’

One of the key advantages of throwing a party in a kâta is their flexibility. If you’re lucky enough to have sunshine, you have the option of raising the sides, allowing your guests to enjoy stunning views or a jaw-dropping sunset as they party. You can enjoy the fresh air and revel in being close to the great outdoors with the peace of mind that you are protected from the elements.

THE TENT
The sky’s the limit where it comes to designing your party tent. Each kâta can be linked together to create one single covered space. Whether it’s an intimate wedding for 50 or a huge celebration for 500, there is an option to suit.


Wedding Marquee Devon by World Inspired Tents - Jamie Bott Photography

The largest kâta is the Giant Hat and each one can seat up to 70 guests comfortably, while the smaller kåta, the Cirrus 40, can also be linked. “This is a perfect tent to create a unique chill out area inside, with the use of our soft cushions, bean cubes and an open log fire,” comments Edward.
 
Choosing a kâta is a statement in itself, but choosing the right furnishings and lighting allows you to firmly put your stamp on your celebration space. World Inspired Tents offer a range of furniture, from rectangle pinewood tables and benches to round tables and backed chairs. Then there’s the lighting: you might choose twinkling fairy lights inside or outdoor coloured flood light sets for surrounding trees. An open fire is perfect for enhancing the atmosphere and maxing out that all-important wow factor.


Wedding Marquee Devon by World Inspired Tents

THE COST
Before you dismiss your dream tipi reception on the grounds of budget, research the options available to you. After all, hiring a kâta can be surprisingly economical.

One of the great advantages of the tipis is that you don’t have to spend lots of time or money decorating them. “The tipis stand alone in their beauty, the natural wood, the soft lighting and the beautiful warm glow of the canvas work together to create a stunning venue,” comments Edward. 

Remember, you’ll need to find out the hire tariff from the landowner and factor in the costs of services such as toilets and generators, which World Inspired Tents can provide.


Wedding Marquee Devon by World Inspired Tents - Douglas Slocombe Photography

If the costs are still beyond your budget, you might consider opting for a more economical winter wedding: the company offers discounted rates from November to March. Don’t let visions of ferocious storms and bitter weather put you off. “The tipis really lend themselves to the winter months,” assures Edward. “They can withstand high winds; they are completely waterproof; and, once the heaters are going and the fires are burning, your guests will be really toasty inside!”

THE ECO FACTOR
A kâta celebration is perfect for an eco wedding. Respect for the environment is essential to the ethos of World Inspired Tents, and the company is a member of various eco schemes including 1% For The Planet, MutaMarq and the Tentipi Assured Rental Programme. They have associations with companies of similar principles and even give each couple a tree sapling to mark their union. Embracing the outdoors minus the carbon conscience, a kâta is the ultimate setting for an eco celebration – with a magical and utterly bespoke twist.


Wedding Marquee Devon by World Inspired Tents

World Inspired Tents
01271 865306 www.worldinspiredtents.co.uk

Words Rebecca Matthews

Wedding Marquee Devon

Wedding Marquees in Devon
Copyright WED Magazine 2011