A Woodland Soirée: Discreet Luxury for a VIP Dinner in Surrey
When it comes to creating unforgettable outdoor experiences, it’s often the most understated events that leave the strongest impression.
At the end of June, Four Seasons Marquees was entrusted with a highly bespoke brief: to support an intimate VIP dinner for just 14 guests, deep within private woodland in Surrey.
The occasion was anything but ordinary. Hosted entirely outdoors, the evening unfolded under the canopy of ancient trees, with elegant crystal chandeliers suspended overhead—glimmering gently in the dappled summer light. There was no traditional marquee venue, no visible infrastructure. The setting had to remain completely in harmony with the surrounding landscape, yet still deliver flawless comfort and functionality for an exceptional guest experience.
A Hidden Support Structure
Our role was behind the scenes but essential. We provided a single marquee structure purely for catering prep and storage—completely separate from the guest area. The challenge? It had to be hidden. Not simply out of sight, but truly camouflaged to blend into the woodland environment.
We began with a standard white marquee frame, nestled among the ferns and mature trees. From there, we worked closely with the client and creative team to wrap the structure in natural materials and foliage. Ivy and camouflage netting softened the silhouette, while bark-toned fabric panels helped the tent disappear into the undergrowth. The result was a catering base that supported seamless service, without compromising the untouched feel of the location.
Elegant Power and Practicality
In addition to the prep marquee, Four Seasons also provided the site’s power infrastructure. We supplied generators and full cable distribution, all carefully laid out to minimise visibility and environmental disruption. Even the portable toilet facilities were discreetly positioned to preserve the woodland aesthetic while meeting the needs of the guests and crew.
Outdoor Dining Under the Trees
While we can’t share images of the dining area itself, the setting spoke for itself. A platform nestled into the natural contours of the forest floor became the stage for dinner, with our team carefully managing access and ground protection. Above, chandeliers sparkled between the branches—each one hung and powered with absolute precision. The effect was magical: an open-air dining experience that felt both theatrical and completely at ease with its surroundings.
Designed for Discretion, Delivered with Precision
This woodland dinner highlights what Four Seasons Marquees does best: flexible, sensitive delivery in unusual and beautiful locations. Our experience in working on private estates across Surrey, Hampshire and the South East allows us to offer elegant solutions—even when a marquee is barely visible at all.
Whether you’re planning a secluded outdoor celebration or a large-scale event with minimal visual impact, we can help bring your vision to life—quietly and seamlessly.
Planning a private event in a unique setting?
Contact Four Seasons Marquees to discuss how we can support your next occasion with adaptable infrastructure, discreet service, and an eye for design that never compromises the setting.
