Asian wedding stage and decor hire: weekend start-up

Couples and their families, often through wedding planners, venues and banqueting halls that need decor suppliers.

Fixed package prices per event (for example a stage and entrance package), plus extras such as florals, draping, lighting and delivery fees. Hire stock can be reused across many weddings.

• Eye for design and colour
• Knowledge of Asian wedding customs and ceremonies
• Organising and working to tight timings
• Practical set-up and lifting

• Public liability insurance, and check whether your cover includes stock damage and setting up at venues
• Check with each venue about access times, rules on candles, fire safety and what decor they allow
• Storing stock at home may need permission from your landlord or mortgage lender; check rules for any storage unit
• A deposit and a clear contract to protect you against cancellations and damaged items
• Heavy lifting and late finishes, so plan help for set-up and take-down

Startup costs are typically around £2,000 to £8,000 for a weekend start-up, depending on how much stock you buy and how many signature looks you offer. Monthly revenue is typically around £500 to £4,000, depending on bookings.

Things to check include public liability insurance, and whether your cover includes stock damage and setting up at venues. Also check each venue's rules on access times, candles, fire safety and permitted decor, and any permission needed to store stock at home or in a unit.

A weekend start-up typically needs around 10 hours a week or more, depending on bookings. Skills that help include design and colour sense, knowledge of Asian wedding customs, working to tight timings and practical set-up. Plan help for heavy lifting and late finishes.