Having an outdoor affair? Be it a
beach, bluff, or backyard event, there's one thing you must do -- pitch a
tent! Take cover with our reception tent basics.
1. SETTING UP CAMP
Tents can be set on just about any surface -- most companies can pitch
tents on grass, concrete, hills, and above trees. Just make sure you're
not putting your tent over any underground power lines, sprinklers,
cables, or sewer easements. Talk to the site manager or owner to find out
what's where on the property.
2. PICKING A STYLE
Tents today come in a variety of styles and colors. Why not match the tent
to your color theme? Keep in mind that the number of people you're having
to your reception may effect the style of tent you're able to rent.
3. SELECTING A SIZE
Square feet are used to measure tent size. Whether you're hosting a small
event or a big-top circus, figure out the size you need with this handy
tent table:
Square Feet/Number of Guests:
- 200/25-30 (buffet) or 20 (sit-down dinner)
- 400/50-58 (buffet) or 40 (sit-down dinner)
- 450/65-75 (buffet) or 45 (sit-down dinner)
- 800/100-114 (buffet) or 80 (sit-down dinner)
- 900/100-115 (buffet) or 90 (sit-down dinner)
- 1,350/170-190 (buffet) or 135 (sit-down dinner)
- 1,600/200-230 (buffet) or 160 (sit-down dinner)
- 1,800/225-258 (buffet) or 200 (sit-down dinner)
- 2,400/300-344 (buffet) or 240-267 (sit-down dinner)
- 3,000/375-429 (buffet) or 300 (sit-down dinner)
4. TEMPERATURE CONTROL
Ceiling fans, cooling systems, and space heaters can be used to cool
down or warm up a tent. Have your heart set on a Valentine's Day bash
in the Colorado Rockies? Go for it -- your love (and the space
heaters, of course) will keep everyone toasty.
5. MANAGING THE SPACE
Will a representative from the tent company be at the affair to ensure
everything goes smoothly? This is very important, so be sure to ask
the rental company this question. The skies might be crystal-blue with
a gentle breeze blowing one moment, a raging storm could appear on the
horizon the next. Even though your tent is secured, what's the plan if
something unpredictable happens? Having someone there at the site to
fix potential problems is key, not to mention a source of comfort.
6. IN CASE OF RAIN
Some styles are waterproof, others are not. If it costs a bit more,
waterproofing is worth the investment. Rain on your wedding day is
said to be good luck; still, it's not something you want on you and
your guests.
7. WHICH WAY TO THE LOO?
Unless your location has an unusual number of facilities, consider
renting port-o-sans, at least two set up not too far from the dining
tent. (Let's face it: nobody wants the toilets next to the wedding
cake -- or anything else, for that matter.) These days, mobile
restrooms can be as pleasant as real ones, with flushing water and
sinks. You can freshen countertops with flowers and other guest
amenities; plus, they're convenient.
8. FINISHING TOUCHES
You have a tent over your head. What's under your feet? If you don't
want to stain your swanky silk shoes in the grass, a parquet wood
dance floor and carpeting musts. Spend more money and French doors,
ceiling fans, and lighting fixtures can be added for effect.
9. FACTORING THE COST
Size and style of tent, plus where, at what time of year, and on what
kind of surface it will be erected, are all factors in the pricing.
Figure out what you need and then get an itemized list of all possible
charges.
10. WHERE TO START
To head in the right direction, visit this page of South Shore
Weddings.com:
South
Shore Wedding Equipment Rentals. There you will find companies who can
assist you with your tent needs.
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