Category: Event Industry

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Event Industry

How to Throw a Trending Summer Party

The hottest time of the year  is the perfect time to throw a cool outdoor party. So, what exactly constitutes a cool outdoor summer party? Well it surely doesn’t just involve your typical decorations with burgers and hot dogs on the grill. No, sir. The hottest summer parties are all-encompassing and can transport you and your guests to a faraway land!

Ready to throw the coolest summer party in town? Check this out.

Latest summer party theme trends

The latest trends in summer parties is creating a total transformation. For example, if you choose to have your party in your own backyard, the idea is to make your guests to forget they are there. How is that possible? Because you will transform your entire backyard. Every aspect of it will fit the theme of the party.

Here are the latest and hottest party theme ideas offering a total transformation:

  • Glamping: This is glamorous camping. Invite your friends over and find your outdoorsy-self and sleep outside. It’s like having a summer party that doesn’t end! Spend the night outdoors without having to give up all the wonderful perks you lose when you go camping.
  • Food truck frenzy: If you are planning on having a big shindig, why not have a food truck bash? These parties offer the perfect opportunity for your friends to try something new and help new businesses who are just starting out with their food trucks to gain some returning customers. It’s a win-win that is hard to beat!
  • Exotic lands: Think Belize, Morocco, Nepal, Madagascar, Maui, the French Polynesia, etc. Consider any and all places that you and your friends may never get to see up close and personal. Then do some research and transform your backyard into this faraway place.

These are just a few ideas. There are so many ways to avoid the same pool party ritual and create something magical and memorable.

Let the food transport your guests

When you think back to most of the summertime parties you have had throughout life, you will likely picture a fired-up barbecue grill, hot dogs, hamburgers, chicken, corn on the cob, and your great aunt Nelly’s famous potato salad. This is so not the thing to eat at your cool summer party. Instead, let the food you offer transport your guests to an entirely new setting – in uniform with your theme, of course.

A few examples to match the hot trends above are:

  • For glamping, you will want foods that will be light and cool. Citrus salads, cold pastas, etc. work perfectly for this event. Because all your friends will be sleeping over, this is the perfect time to raise the bar on your bar! Create new mixed drinks and spunky cocktails to make the night a bit sweeter.
  • Food truck frenzies can offer a wide variety – anything from Indian, Asian, or Mexican cuisine to cupcakes and other tasty treats. The key is to have a variety of different foods for your guests to munch on.
  • If you decide to whisk your guests away to an exotic land, you better make sure you know how to cook the food! Look up recipes and create a feast that stems from the region you choose. If possible, you may also be able to find a local restaurant that specializes in this cuisine that may be willing to cater – or at least give you some pointers!

Everything should match, including the food. Don’t neglect it!

Turn the temperature down

Most people love summer, but not everyone loves the summertime heat. If you want to throw the coolest party, make it cool – literally. First and foremost, do not host a summer party in desert-like settings – make sure you have some shade! You could host a party near trees that can offer shade. Or, perhaps have a building overhang or awning. Another idea would be to rent a tent!

The wonderful thing about tent rentals is that they offer shade, yes. However, they also offer climate control. That means that you can have your cake and eat it, too! Enjoy the outdoors, take in the sunshine, and keep cool under the protection of your tent.

Tip: You may also want to incorporate some cool treats and ice-cold beverages to keep the body temps lowered, too.

Seeking professional help

You are great, you really are. Your ideas are wonderful, your decorating style is superb, but you are not a professional. If you want to have a cool summer party, then you need to bring in the professionals. After all, if you want to make your guests believe they are somewhere other than your backyard, then you need to make them believe it.

Professionals can be hired for so many tasks when it comes to planning parties. If you seek out an event planner, he or she will typically have a huge networking database of professionals with all diverse backgrounds that they work with. This would be an easy, but potentially a bit costlier, way to go.

If you know what it is you are looking for, you can always seek out help on your own. Doing some research online, you can discover local professionals who specialize in your needs. Just make sure that you do some digging to confirm that the professionals are legit and reputable.

Go all out!

Don’t let anything go. Throw the hottest (and coolest) summer party by not holding back. You know the saying, go big or go home. That’s the attitude you must have here. The goal is to create a place that your guests will never want to leave once they step inside.

Now you know what you can do to create a cool summer party for you and your friends. Rent a tent for your backyard and turn down its climate control. Then, decorate and transform the tent into something that will make jaws drop. If you hear the question, “where am I again?” then you know you did good, kid.

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Event Industry

Planning Tips for Your Next Outdoor Corporate Event

A corporate event gives you a chance to show off your company – whether to your clients, those in the same field, or your own employees. These events allow you to show appreciation for the support of clients and those who run your day to day operation.

Because of the importance of the event, it needs to be impressive. So, when it comes to planning your next outdoor corporate event, use these tips to make sure you are putting your company’s best foot forward!

Get your corporate event logistics down

An outdoor corporate event is not a small task. No matter how prepared you think you are, you really aren’t until you work out the logistics.

  • Are you having vendors?
  • Is the event being catered?
  • How many tables or unique spaces need to be set up?
  • Will you be renting a tent?
  • How long will you have to set up the venue? Will there be enough time?
  • How long will it take to deconstruct?
  • Is the event space designed for optimal flow and easy access for guests?

These are just some of the questions you need to ask yourself and consider before the day of the event. If possible, allow extra time in case you encounter any kinks in your plan. Restricting your time could cause a lot of headaches and aggravation.

All things electrical

Electricity is a necessity today – even for an outdoor event. You will need lighting sources in case the event occurs after the sun goes down. You may need access to audio or visual equipment. Perhaps you are even cooking at the event. Unless you are taking it way back in time, you will need some source of electrical power.

Electricity is not one of those things you should just do on your own. Take the time to decide what you will need it for and where in the venue you will need to access it. Then, hire an electrician or contractor to hook it up for you. Sure, this may mean you will incur an extra expense – but is the electricity at your corporate event really something you want to risk? The last thing you need is to have an entire event taking place and to lose power. Or, worse, have a fire due to faulty wiring!

Tip: The electrical cords will likely be visible due to the outdoor location. However, make sure they are out of main walkways, tied, and covered as best as possible to ensure the safety of your guests.

Have a Plan B

You can work hard to make sure you have everything on track and ready to go. However, you may discover an obstacle. For instance, Mother Nature. You cannot predict the weather. So, when you are planning an outdoor event, it is imperative that you have a backup plan – just in case the outdoors isn’t so welcoming for you and your guests.

Your alternate plan may be to move into a nearby permanent structure. However, depending on what your event is to entail and how many guests attending, this move could get a bit tricky. One way to avoid this is to opt for a tent rental. Event tents are customizable so you will be able to find one to fit your exact needs. They provide shelter from almost any weather condition (except the severe stuff), providing a roof, sidewalls, and even flooring! This is an effortless way to have your guests covered.

Whatever you choose for your Plan B, make sure you have the logistics worked out so that the transition can take place smoothly.

Amenities/Guest comfort

You want your guests to enjoy themselves at your corporate event. Therefore, providing amenities that will give them comfort will score you some bonus points. Think about it – not everyone enjoys being outdoors so having a few little things that can make it more tolerable will go long way in making a good (and lasting) impression. Consider the following:

  • Personal fans
  • Sunglasses
  • Flip flops
  • Sunscreen
  • If there will be kids present, offer things such as water toys, bubbles, etc.
  • Have a delightful selection of ice cold beverages.
  • Provide shade, such as with a tent rental.
  • Offer popsicles or other chilled treats.

Sanitation and health concerns

Anytime you have a large group of people together, you need to take precautions when it comes to sanitary conditions. Otherwise, you could end up with some serious health concerns (not to mention some potential unwelcome publicity).

  • Make sure your event venue has proper restrooms for people. Hire someone to make sure that the bathrooms remain clean, in working order, and stocked throughout the entire event. The availability of running water and plumbing is essential for this.
  • If you will be cooking on premises, hire only those individuals who know their way around a kitchen. You will want to cook everything to its proper temperature.
  • Ensure that food is being prepped and stored properly. Don’t leave food out that can possibly spoil.

Many of these things are common sense but can get overlooked easily when too many hands are involved. To keep everyone safe and healthy, practice these and the many other rules suggested by your local health department.

Ordinances and Permits

How humiliating would it be if your corporate event was in full swing and your city officials show up and shut your party down? It is important to know and understand your local ordinances and permit requirements. When hosting large events, there are generally going to be rules and regulations that need to be followed. Reach out to your local government offices to determine what, if any, permits you will need and what ordinances you will need to follow.

Your outdoor corporate event can leave a lasting impression on your guests, but not if you aren’t prepared. Make sure you have all the logistics down, as well as maintain control of the safety of your guests. If you line up all your ducks in a row just right, you can relax and enjoy the event.

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Event Industry

Making Sure a Tent Rental is Safe for Large Events

The day of your event has arrived and you have made sure everything is perfect – right on down to the tiniest of details. You’ve discovered that a large tent can provide an amazing venue for your event. Not only can you customize it to your exact needs, but it also can allow you to enjoy a large events outdoors without dealing with outdoor weather-related hazards.

While a tent rental can provide many safety features, it is up to you to make sure that all safety angles are addressed before your event. Otherwise, if you don’t prepare for a potential emergency, your months and months of planning could get thrown out with the trash.

Tent size

When was the last time you were in an office, restaurant, or concert venue and saw a sign on the wall that read, “Maximum Capacity…” followed by a number? This sign lets you know how many people can safely fit within the confines of the room. Exactly how many people per space varies and is usually determined by fire safety codes or other local ordinances.

The point is, those signs don’t just end with permanent buildings, but with tents as well. Thankfully, you will not need to hang a sign or go through any formal process. Instead, you will want to make sure you have a head count of just how many people intend to attend your event before you place your tent order. Once you have the guest number ironed out, then rent your tent accordingly.

It may seem enticing to go with a smaller tent for financial reasons, but that means you are risking the safety of all your guests. Should an emergency occur, you want to make sure all guests are able to move freely and leave the tent easily and safely. The proper amount of space in your tent size will allow that.

Never overcrowd your tent.

No poles

When you think of a tent rental, you may picture poles holding it up and in place. After all, how else would tents get erected? Many tent rentals these days, especially clear span tents, do not require inconveniently exposed poles throughout the tent. This lets all the guests at large events have plenty of room for your activities. Regardless of if you are holding a concert, a party, or a tradeshow, your guests will have plenty of room.

This safety feature of an event tent means that, in case of an emergency, there is nothing structurally that will impose a hazard or risk to your guests. Removing these poles reduces the risk of injury, including both tripping or running into them.

Have an evacuation plan

One reason why so many event planners love tent rentals is because of the open space they provide. There are many possibilities for decorating and creating the layout of the event since there are no pre-built walls, as in a permanent structure. While this benefit can help the flow of the event, it also aids in increasing safety.

Because you are designing the layout of your event, you will want to keep these in mind:

  • Do not put tables close together without leaving a safe amount of room between each for access. Do this even if you don’t intend for individuals to pass through. In case of an emergency, your guests will use every avenue possible.
  • Do not use any fire-creating appliance, such as gas grills, burners, etc. Fires are a serious hazard and could happen in the blink of an eye. Instead, opt for electrical cooking devices.
  • Keep centerpieces and other decorations away from fire sources.
  • Opt not to use candles.

Design your layout with an evacuation plan in mind. Make it possible for your guests to be able to follow through with it should they need to.

Walls are important for safety

Choosing to use the side walls that can come with event tent rentals is wise, especially if you reside in an area prone to inclement weather. The roof of event tents can withstand some wind, rain, and snow weight. However, having cover overhead won’t do you any good if it is pouring and the wind is blowing the rain sideways!

This rain could pose many safety hazards, two of the most dangerous are: guests could slip and fall or electrical circuits could be compromised, possibly causing shock. Why risk all of that when you could just choose to add walls to your tent rental? It is a safety feature that is almost a must!

You may think that side walls will just blow in the wind and still let rain in. However, most tents come with walls that run on tracks. They slide open and closed, much like a sliding glass door in a home. In addition to being attached to the track, these side walls are also attached to the roof of the tent.

Know your tent’s weather specs

Tent rentals are good for being able to have a party outdoors while staying safe from rough weather. Unfortunately, tents for large events cannot withstand all types of weather. For example – severe lightning. When you find yourself in a storm, your tent will protect you. However, if there is a lot of cloud to ground lightening, you may want to seek a more permanent shelter for large events.

Another example is intense winds. Most event tents can handle a decently strong amount of wind without any struggle. But, don’t just assume it will. This is something you will want to discuss when the tent is being erected – just to be sure it is being founded properly to withstand the correct amount of wind strength.

Always, always have a backup plan.

Extra steps to take for full safety

All in all, you will want to make sure that you have covered all the bases – just in case something goes wrong. You may not intend to have an emergency, but taking a few simple safety measures can save you – and your guests – in case you do.

  • Have a fire extinguisher (or two). Make sure they are clearly visible.
  • Hire an electrician to properly setup all electrical equipment.
  • Cover cords or other potential foot/walking safety hazards.

Preparing and creating large events is a lot of work, but be prepared for anything and your party is sure to be a hit!

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Event Industry

Why Use a Rental Event Tent for Corporate Gatherings?

Day in and day out your employees show up to work, put in their time, and go home. Many may even go above and beyond what is expected of them. The point is that your employees are on the front line of your business. They make up your company and keep it charging forward daily. Think about this for a moment – where would your company be without each one of them?

So, when the time comes for corporate gatherings, your employees deserve the best. Forget the traditional cookout or generic dinner at a local banquet hall that you do every year. Do something different. Why not throw together an outdoor event with a rental event tent? Make your corporate gathering bold, fun, and memorable. Of course, make sure to let your employees know just how much the company values them.

Take your event out of the office

Some corporations hold office parties or gatherings in the actual office. Who wants to spend more time there than they already do? Your employees are always at the office. Give them a change of scenery and some fresh air by moving the get-together outdoors! Breathing in fresh air is healthy and it will likely be very welcomed.

Choosing to hold an event outdoors means that you can relax on the headcount, too. There is much more room for your employees to bring spouses – or even families! There will be no stuffy indoor atmosphere and cleanup will be a breeze!

On a side note – think about all the games and entertainment you will be able to pull off if the event is outdoors!

Types of events

Outdoor venues mean that you have a wide choice of the type of event you can have. Depending on your event, your rental event tent will change slightly. In fact, you can plan your corporate event from a very informal barbecue to a very formal black-tie affair. It all depends on the vibe you are trying to achieve for the event. Below are a few ideas to get your mind churning:

  • BBQ – Make it complete with grilled foods and sides, games, and all sorts of outdoor fun.
  • A luau – Have your employees dress like they have been swept away to an island vacation. Do the limbo. Roast the pig. And, of course, do the hula.
  • Casino night – Give your employees a chance to cash in by having a casino night. Set up a mock casino with card tables and token slots. Top it off with a Vegas-style show!
  • Pick a decade – Choose a decade that fits your employees and go all out on that theme, requesting that they dress to fit the part. Include food, games, and entertainment from that decade, too.
  • Team building – If you are looking to multi-task by spoiling your employees and work on team building skills, it is possible! You can incorporate activities into your event that will help bring community and strength to your corporation while also treating your employees.
  • The formal – How about a black-tie dinner? A masquerade ball? A white party? If you are looking for fancy, you can still get away with that even though you are outdoors.

Decide how you want to approach your corporate gathering based on the outdoor venue and the culture of your office.

Decorate to impress

Go all out. Go crazy. Decorate as if it were the last corporate event you ever intended to throw. Ok, well, surely the accounting department will ask that you keep it within budget, but…

Outdoor venues mean that you have a full rental event tent, a full blank canvas that you can decorate. You have no lighting, no flooring, no pictures on the wall, no pre-designed rooms or seating areas, etc. You can decorate however you need to.

  • Design your own layout. Make sure to include areas for all aspects of the event and room to mingle.
  • Decide how you want to decorate based on the theme or type of event you are going to have.
  • Don’t forget the lighting and flooring. This can get as basic or as elegant as you want, again depending on the type of event.

This is your space – make it bold and watch the jaws of your employees drop as they enter the tent.

Provide convenience treats and other tokens of appreciation

When planning your corporate gathering, make sure to include convenience treats. What are they? These are items that your guests may have forgotten but wished they would have brought. Once they see you are conveniently providing these items, they will be delighted. For example, gum and mints, stain remover, toiletry items, flip flops (for dancing), sunscreen and sunglasses, etc.

Tokens of appreciation are always a nice gesture, too. Small gifts or goody bags for your employees are just the extra touches sometimes needed to stand out from all the other corporations out there.

It is amazing how a little thought can leave a lasting impression.

Why a rental event tent is perfect for your gathering

In case you haven’t already figured it out, a tent is perfect for your outdoor gathering. They are so versatile and offer many perks you may not have even thought of. For example:

  • They can be placed almost anywhere there is open space. This includes parking lots, vacant lots, ball fields, parks, etc. Just be sure to have enough room for parking, in addition to the size of your tent.
  • They are completely customizable. They come in all shapes and sizes. You can choose to have side walls or not. The same goes for flooring – you can take it or leave it.
  • Event tents will allow you to host your corporate gathering outdoors without worrying about the weather. Tent rentals now provide protection from almost all weather. Your event can go on, rain or shine.

 

Get your crew outdoors and show them an enjoyable time. Help them grow as a team or let them boogie down under a 70’s era disco ball. However you choose to do it, make sure you don’t forget to to include a rental event tent!

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Event Industry

Five Benefits of a Festival Tent Rental

Summertime calls for music festivals of all kinds. Whether it is Burning Man, Coachella, Lollapalooza, Governors Ball, Bonnaroo, or any of the many others, you look forward to giving up a couple days of your life to soak in the sounds and sights that come with these multi-day musical festival tent extravaganzas.

Much of these events include partying and dancing while growing lost in the music. Several hours in and you may be missing the comforts of home. Sure, there are things that you know you need to bring with you – like some sort of tent, bedding, water, non-perishable food items, toiletries for personal hygiene, etc. Have you ever considered to forego your camping tent and, instead, try a festival tent rental from a tent rental company? Doing so can add luxury to your entire music festival experience.

Bring the indoors out

A festival tent rental is perfect for protecting you from the elements you may face outside. In a sense, they can bring the indoors out. For example, you will be outside for a couple of days – enjoying the music and the party, yes, but you will be exposed to things such as the sun, rain, wind, etc. The weather can wreak havoc on an outdoor camp. However, if you decide to rent a tent, you will be protected.

How? Let’s see.

  • The roof of your tent will be durable enough to handle any weather condition.
  • The sidewalls of your tent are perfect for keeping out the wind and blowing rain.
  • These rented tents can include flooring – which means you won’t be dealing with a muddy mess inside your tent if dark clouds decide to open right above you. After all, the rain must settle somewhere!
  • When the sun gets too hot, your festival tent will provide you a great amount of protection from the sun’s rays. In addition, the climate control feature means that you will have a cool place to escape to when you need a break.

Even if you expect beautiful weather all weekend – a sunburn on the first day is enough to make your entire time miserable. Don’t take a chance!

Decorate your heart out

You will be dealing with some fun – but rough – conditions for the days you are at the music festival. At the very least, you want your tent to be welcoming and comfortable. If you choose to go the route of a camping tent, you will have to find comfort in crawling on your knees and cross your fingers that an intoxicated passerby doesn’t fall over and crush your temporary housing.

A festival tent rental from a rental tent company means that you can be assured a comfortable and, albeit, sturdy place to stay — with no need to crawl!

Here are a few ideas to help you decorate your heart out:

  • Bring in blow up furniture – a couch, chair, and bed – so you can stay up off the ground!
  • Because your tent will have flooring, bring soft throw rugs or carpet pieces to put down.
  • Separate your tent in sections – one area for relaxing, one for hygiene purposes, another for food storage, etc.
  • String fun lights across your tent or even solar light outside your tent.
  • Bring pillows and blankets to polish off the space with a great level of comfort.

Keep your food and drinks safe and cool

Buying food and drinks at festivals can get quite costly. There may be some things you will choose to buy, but the majority of your food and drinks will be brought in with you. Leaving these items outdoors – especially during these summer months – can make them unsafe for consumption, ultimately forcing you to purchase more than you intended.

Choosing to rent a festival tent rental means that you will have a safer way of storing your food and beverages. Tent rentals are sturdier and more protective from elements – including heat from the sun. Your items will remain as cool as possible.

Your festival tent rental can be found

Imagine the thousands upon thousands of people at the music festival and you are trying to let your friends know exactly where your tent is. Your message would probably look something like this, “Find the beer tent that is just to the right of the portable toilets on the left side of the stage (when you are looking at it). Then, walk past the beer tent to the end of the row and turn left, pass 3 rows of tents and one that sorta looks like half of a row, then make another left. Walk past about 22 tents and then you will find me.”

Seems a bit complicated. You could easily avoid all of this by just renting a festival tent rental– and customizing it. Make it stand out in any manner that you wish so that you can be seen from almost anywhere!

  • Decorate with bright colors.
  • Use wording or lettering to stand out.
  • Use strobe lights or bright spotlights while decorating to find your way at night.

You will no longer need to worry about spending hours looking for your friends!

You will be the go-to place for festival fun

Of course, summer music festivals are all about the music. But, they are also about mingling with friends, meeting new people, and taking a step back from all your adult-like responsibilities for a few days.

With a festival tent rental, you can be the go-to place for festival fun. You will be the cool kid with the cool tent. Decorate it and make it awesome. Tent rentals are larger than your average tent. In addition, since you don’t have to crawl around on your knees, you can invite your friends in to escape the outdoors, and still be comfortable. It is a sure-fire way to be a hit at the event.

With all of your party skills and tent rental know-how, you can show many others the best way to rock a music festival. Who knows, you may even start a tent rental trend for many years to come!

 

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Event Industry

A Tent Wedding: Transitioning from Ceremony to Reception

You have always dreamed of having a wedding ceremony and reception under a tent outdoors.  Fortunately for you, your dream is finally coming true. The time has arrived to do the planning for your tent wedding and you aren’t quite sure how to pull it off: two events, one location.

What do you do when you have a tent wedding ceremony and reception in the same location? How can you make this transition smooth – free of stress and chaos? Transporting your wedding guests from part A of the event to part B, while you are focused on pictures can be a bit tricky. Luckily, however, it is do-able.

Depending on your likes and dislikes, there are several ways to get through this transition smoothly. Take some time to read through these suggestions and decide what will work best for your individual scenario.

Gather a transition team to assist

If you are truly holding the separate events in the exact same location, you will be making a big transition between the ceremony and reception area. You are going to need some help. Gather a team of professionals to assist you to make it quick and easy. For example, a wedding planner, the florist, caterers, a few friends. While you are concentrating on the fact that you just tied the knot and want the pictures to prove it – your team will go to work transforming your ceremony area into the most magical reception area possible.

Quick transitioning tips:

  • If you plan on having a fairly short ceremony and are not opposed to your guests standing, this will reduce the number of chairs and furniture involved when transitioning between the two events.
  • Keep decorations Complex décor will only add to the transition time, whether taking it down from the ceremony or decorating for the reception.
  • Plan to keep a similar flow for both events. The more alike the décor will be, the easier to transition.
  • It is a good idea to have everything necessary in close proximity and to even do a trial run before the big event to cut down on the chance for any errors or missing pieces.

Make sure you can count on your team – and that they are ready for the challenge!

Create a temporary mingling space

While your team is re-creating your tent wedding space, you will need to find something to do with your guests. Why not create a space beside the tent location for them to mingle while they wait? Here are a few ideas you can do to keep them occupied:

  • Have a cocktail party with hors d’oeuvres.
  • Set up a popcorn station. Serve small cups or bags of popcorn and provide a wide array of unique toppings, such as chocolate drizzle, caramel drizzle, nuts, candy pieces, etc.
  • Pass out note cards and have guests write notes, memories, or words of wisdom to the newlyweds.
  • Provide disposable cameras and have guests begin taking their own pictures. Collect these cameras as the wedding reception is concluding.
  • Set up lawn games for your guests. Take advantage of the outdoors by setting up cornhole, croquet, giant chess, horseshoes, etc. for your guests to play as they wait.

Use your creativity and decide on something that will make your guests content while they wait for you.

Use dividers and split your tent wedding

If your guest list is not too enormous, you may be able to divide your tent. Using customized decorative dividers, you can get a two for one deal. Splitting your tent in half will allow you to set up for your ceremony and your reception. This will require no transitioning between – other than a short walk for your guests.

Hold the ceremony in the reception area

It isn’t too uncommon for weddings to be held in the actual reception area. Instead of guests standing or sitting in auditorium style they will be sitting at their designated tables. The setup will include an aisle through the venue for which the wedding party will use to walk on for the ceremony. Choosing to go this route means that there will be no awkward in-between time and there will be no need for the major transitioning of spaces.

There is one downfall: pictures. Usually, after the ceremony, guests will be ushered elsewhere while the wedding party remains and collects a ton of pictures. However, because both events are taking place in the same location, that would mean the pictures would be taken there, too. Photographers often find it difficult to keep the focus of the wedding party as the ceremony concludes. Perhaps another option would be to take photos before the ceremony begins.

Decide to use two tents

Depending on the size of lawn you have available, you could choose to use two tents. One can be designated specifically for the ceremony, the other for the reception. This gives the feel of a traditional wedding – with the ceremony at the church and the reception in a different location. The perk is there is no driving involved!

This option surely isn’t for everyone. It would require a large outdoor space and could hike up your expenses just a bit. On the other hand, two tents also cut down on the need for a transition team and all the stress that it brings. The reception area will already be set up and waiting for your guests while you and your wedding party are spending some time with the photographer.

This is your wedding, your reception, and your day. There is no set guidebook that tells you how you must have your ceremony and reception. Decide what works best for you and your tent wedding – then practice its execution so that it is flawless on your big day.

 

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Event Industry

How to Host a Food and Wine Festival

Food and wine – what a great combination. How could you go wrong with a festival including both? Food and wine festivals are a way for people of similar interests to come together. Whether a novice or wine connoisseur, people come from all over to attend these festivals.

If introducing new wine or food is what you are after, then a food and wine festival may be the place to do it. If you need some tips on how to get started, keep reading.

Check the legalities first

Depending on where you intend to hold your food and wine festival, you will want to check the permit requirements. Some cities/towns or states are stricter than others. Decide where you want to have it and then contact the local Division of Alcohol. If you aren’t sure what it is called in your area, calling your local City Hall or county government and they will point you in the right direction.

It may seem like a lot of extra work to check into the legalities. However, the consequences for not doing so will be too great. If you are going to be selling wine – do it legally.

Where will you hold your festival?

You will want to hold your festival in an area where you are sure to get a response from people showing an interest in your event. However, that doesn’t always mean there will be space available. You can search for a vacant building or you could find an event space to rent. These are both feasible options. But, what about an event structure  instead?

Event structures offer a wide-open space for organizing and executing your food and wine festival in just the manner you would like to. You can customize tents for your festival to meet the size and shape requirements. How many people are you intending to have? Once you know the size, then you can decide how big of a space you will need to erect the tent – a vacant field, an empty parking lot, or any open space. Just make sure there is plenty of space for parking and maneuvering in and around the event structure.

How will you design the layout?

Have you given any thought to how you would like to design the layout? Here are a couple ideas:

  • Separate the food and wine in two distinct locations under the tent.
  • Organize the food and wine according to their pairings. This makes it handy when someone is having a tasting of a wine, they can try a food that pairs well with the wine. Mixing up the pairings could result in an erroneous dislike of the food or the wine.

Another thing to consider is how you want to set up the flow of the event:

  • Determine what you want individuals to encounter when they first walk into the tent.
  • Draw a layout from entrance to exit and all the rows in between.
  • Make sure to leave space for participants to maneuver through the walkways. Consider that some will mingle, some will be enjoying tastings, others will have questions. Don’t allow your layout to determine the amount of joy your folks will get from learning. You don’t want your guests to feel as though they are being corralled.
  • Don’t forget about the restrooms location and possible lounge/seating area.

You want your guests to see everything and experience all that your event has to offer – your layout is going to determine if that happens.

How will you decorate the space?

Believe it or not, you can have a theme for your food and wine festival. Your guests will be excited to join and will be ready to have fun. Your theme should match this. It should be light and full of relaxing entertainment.

A common theme for food and wine events revolves around countries. For example, have sporadic stations set up throughout the event that represent each country. While visiting that station, guests will be able to experience a wine and food pairing that represents that country. Another similar, yet different, idea would be to have the theme of the festival be a specific country. Then, all the wine and food would be a representation of that country.

Other common themes are:

What food and wine will you serve?

Wines come in so many flavors and types. If you are having a true food and wine festival, you are going to want to make sure you have the most popular choices, at the very least. Those are:

  • Riesling
  • Chardonnay
  • Pinot Grigio
  • Zinfandel
  • Sauvignon Blanc
  • Merlot
  • Cabernet Sauvignon
  • Pinot Noir

Not sure what to pair with each? Check these out for ideas:

  • Riesling – Pairs well with all Asian cuisines, barbecue meats, and salads
  • Chardonnay – Try this with light pastas (no red sauce), seafood (including oysters), chicken, and mushroom dishes
  • Pinot Grigio – Pairs best with salads, fruit salads, seafood, light pastas
  • Zinfandel – Chocolate desserts go well with this wine, including chocolate cake, mousse, chocolate cherries. In addition, rosemary and pepper roasts, pork, and duck.
  • Sauvignon Blanc – Pairs well with cheese and green vegetables, seafood, tangy dishes (such as lemon, lime and mint), and any deep herbal dishes.
  • Merlot – Real meat dishes pair well with merlot. For example, meatloaf, pork loin, roast chicken, and beef stew.
  • Cabernet Sauvignon – this wine was made to go well with hearty dishes, including steak, lamb, venison, and bison.
  • Pinot Noir – chicken, pastas, fish, casseroles, soups and stews. This wine also pairs well with hearty dishes.

There are many possibilities when it comes to the food and wine you want to offer up at your festival. Make the decision of the theme or the type that you think will be the best fit. For festivals, light dishes such as tapas and desserts work best.

Food and wine festivals bring about a time for trying new things, learning about new wines and pairings, as well as socializing with others who have similar interests! Organization and variety is key – if you’ve got that, then your guests are sure to have a blast!

 

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Event Industry

How to Decorate a Tent for a Wedding

Whether you are looking for an engagement party, wedding, or any other type of event where love is in the air – you can transform your tent rental into a romantic oasis with these steps on how to decorate a tent for a wedding.

Romance can leave you or your significant other feeling elated and on cloud 9. With the hustle and bustle of life, a romantic evening is much appreciated – even needed some days. It is a sure-fire way to remind each other that love is what is important.

Surrounding yourselves in soft lighting, soft seating, and peaceful surroundings can enhance any romantic evening. Knowing how to decorate a tent for a wedding or engagement can be difficult, especially because you want everything to be romantic and perfect. If you are wanting to have a sophisticated wedding or engagement party, here are a few hints to make sure you are on the right track.

How to decorate a tent for a wedding: 5 considerations

Many people are not extremely familiar with how to decorate a tent for a wedding. However, with these tips, you’ll decorate like a pro in no time. Get the candles ready, and let the sparks fly, because after this, you’ll know what it takes to plan a romantic wedding or evening with a tent rental.

There are five aspects and ways of decorating a tent to consider:

  • Seating arrangements
  • Proper (and elegant) lighting
  • Romantic and soft decorations
  • Bringing the heat with a fire place
  • Treats for guests

We’ll go into detail on each of these five ways to decorate a tent below.

Plan comfortable seating

When preparing your romantic tent, focus on the seating as a priority. There are a few options that can get you the look and feel you are going for.

  • Use a comfy couch or couches. Again, make sure to add soft pillows to lean against.
  • If you want to make your seating a little more eccentric, you can choose to fill the floor of your tent with big pillows. Keep them cushiony and colorful.

The space you sit on will allow for comfort for your guests to mingle and have a great time.

Lighting the space

Lighting can set the ambiance of any room. When you are going for a romantic look, you will want to avoid things like bright lights, flashing lights, and brightly colored lights. These things perk energy up, rather than having a calming effect. Instead, opt for things such as:

  • Candles. You can line the area with multiple little candles or a few bigger candles. The soft glow that is distributed by candles can absolutely set a romantic mood. You will just want to keep fire safety in mind. Don’t get the candles too close to the pillows and make sure they are sitting on a secure surface. Having a fire extinguisher nearby is not a bad idea, either.
  • Think white holiday lighting. You can use these string lights by draping designs across the ceiling. You can string them along the base of the tent. Or maybe even pin up designs using them on the walls of the tent.
  • Soft colored lights work well, too. For instance, soft pinks or a calming, soft blue. These colored lights fill the tent with their hues, allowing your guest or guests to be affected by their color.

Take care when you are setting up the lighting for your space. Make sure it sets the mood you are desiring and that it won’t leave your guest or guests feeling like they are on display under some bright lights.

Decorations worth considering

Because the seating and the lighting are what will make the romantic setting, actual decorations aren’t too important. However, if you are looking to decorate, there are a few tasteful ways that you can add to the ambiance. For example:

  • Flowers – You may decide to add flowers, such as roses, to the decorated tent. You can do so in vases or by placing the roses (or just the petals) around the tent.
  • Paper lanterns – These lanterns provide such a feeling of warmth. They provide color and decoration, as well as soft lighting.
  • Aroma oils – Soft lit aroma oil burners can offer a scent that can transform the tent into a calming space with a natural scent that won’t be overpowering.

Don’t go overboard on decorations. Keep it warm and inviting – and leave the balloons and streamers at the store!

Adding a fire pit

If you want to take your wedding or engagement party decor a bit further, try adding a fire pit. There isn’t anything quite as romantic as sitting with your significant other around a fire pit. Use it for warmth, the mood, or to roast some s’mores.

And, no, the fire pit does not go inside the tent – but rather just outside.

Champagne bottles and little treats

Your guests will definitely appreciate well thought out food and drinks at your party. Here are a few ideas for you to have handy:

  • Champagne because, well, champagne is just one of those things you need nearby when you are having a magically romantic night in a tent under the stars.
  • Chocolates – chocolate is sweet, enjoyable, and goes well with champagne.
  • Strawberries (or other cut up or easy-to-eat fruits) – these also go well with champagne and can be enjoyed rather easily and mess-free.
  • Cheese and crackers platter – Mix up the cheese and cracker varieties to make it more or less
  • Mediterranean plate – Kalamata olives, feta cheese, pita, hummus

You will want to keep it light and simple. With the low lighting and the soft furniture, it would be difficult to have a full several course meal. Instead, pack a romantic picnic-like snack and beverage.

Planning a romantic evening for your wedding or engagement party in a tent should be relaxing for all. However, with all this knowledge, you’ll be a pro when it comes to knowing how to decorate a tent for a wedding or engagement! So, gather your tent, your seating made for cuddling, and grab your significant other for a beautiful night under the stars.

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Event Industry

What to Do When It Rains on Your Tent & Event

It is time for you to get your party started, but you overheard the meteorologist on the news last night say that there is a high chance of rain for today – at the same time as your tented event. What are you going to do if it rains on your tent & event?

You can never be too prepared. Even if you had never seen the weather forecast, you would still want to have a plan for your event in case the weather turns sour. The more prepared you are, the less stress you will face when things don’t work out the way you intended. Because, let’s face it, very rarely do things work out perfectly.

So, if you find yourself with an upcoming outdoor tented event planned, here are a few tips to prepare for the possibility of it raining on your tent & event. – just in case!

Side walls are a must!

Tents are wonderful inventions. See, they let you and your guests be outdoors, but they offer protection from the elements. These tents are made to withstand heavy rain. However, without side walls, the wind that often comes with heavy rain could blow the rainfall straight in on your guests.

When reserving your tent, make sure you include side walls as a precaution. They can be pulled back – allowing you to keep the open feel of the outdoors – but can also work to act as a barrier between your party and blowing rain in your tent & event.

Proper flooring can save the day!

Just as rain can blow in through the sides, it can also slide right in by running puddles – especially if you are on the slightest downslope. Unfortunately, even side walls can’t stop the water on the ground from seeping in. When it does, however, it is guaranteed to make the ground under your tent a total mess.

Walking on wet grass or in mud is no way to treat your guests – especially if this is a formal event. (Think about it – heels and mud? Yikes!) Not only is it an inconvenience, but it can also be hazardous. Mud can be very slippery and could result in someone falling and potentially getting injured. This is not a good thing.

To save all of this from happening and to avoid a disaster, it is best to make sure your tent has flooring. When erecting, the crew should make sure it is in the most level area possible. In addition, the flooring should be slightly raised, allowing any water that decides to seep through to go under the floor and not crash your party.

Keep in mind — this flooring is not only important for your guests’ safety, but also for any electronic equipment or furniture. It will keep everything from being affected by the rain water, reducing the possibility of damage.

Towels for everyone!

Not that you want to have a cabinet of fresh towels at your tent event, but it may come in handy. It may also be super appreciated by your guests. You can either have them stashed somewhere out of sight or perhaps use a nice, decorative bin or cabinet to hold them. No one even has to know they are there! However, when it starts to rain and your guests find themselves in need of drying off – you will have towels available.

Many guests come prepared for lots of things, but carrying a towel or an extra change of clothes isn’t likely one of them. So, plan for the worst and bring delight to your dripping, soaking wet guests!

Keep guests dry all the way to the entrance!

Depending on where you hold your tent event, it may or may not be feasible to provide a walkway from the parking area to the front entrance of the tent. If it is at all possible, create one. It doesn’t have to be covered, of course. The idea is to keep your guests from having to walk through wet grass and mud to get to your tent event – especially when just arriving. No one wants to be uncomfortable through the whole event because of what they had to go through just to get in the door!

You may also consider providing umbrellas for your guests to use once they arrive. Many people carry umbrellas in their cars, many do not. Many others have them, but illogically store them in their trunks. You providing the umbrella is a kind gesture. It will also ensure that your guests will be saved from the rain – if only just a little.

Let the rain lift you up, rather than bring you down!

The idea of rain taking over your tent & event will likely make you angry. It will make you discouraged and disappointed that you spent so much time and effort in planning for the event – and the rain just wants to ruin it. Well, get your frustrations out quickly and then move on – you have an event to tend to!

Don’t let the rain get you down. Instead, make light of it. If you are having a DJ (or even playing your own music) pick songs that go with the weather. For example, Here Comes the Rain Again by Eurythmics, Rain by The Beatles, Umbrella by Rihanna, I Love a Rainy Night by Eddie Rabbitt, or Purple Rain by Prince.

Make jokes about the rain and don’t complain to your guests. Make them feel relaxed, despite the less-than-ideal weather conditions, and all will go smoothly. This will all make the rain seem insignificant. It may also (hopefully) give your guests a chuckle. Let the rain lift you up, rather than bring you down!

When mother nature decides to unleash the rain on the exact day of your outdoor tent event, don’t fret. Welcome and embrace the weather. Besides, have you ever noticed that when it looks like rain and you decide to carry your umbrella – just in case – it never rains? It always just catches you off guard when you aren’t prepared. So, when planning, plan for it to rain on your tent & event. Then, if superstition holds true, you will have nothing but blue skies! Or, if it rains anyway – guess who is prepared? YOU!

 

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Event Industry

Having an Outdoor Music Festival? Rent a Tent

There is just something about being outdoors and listening to music. It is a lot different than being stuck between four walls with distasteful acoustics. When you are at an outdoor music festival, you are surrounded by the open air, the free-flowing music, and you have ample amount of room to spread out when the mood strikes you to start dancing.

If you have decided to have an outdoor music festival, there are a few things you are going to need:

  • Music (a band, singer, performer, DJ)
  • A large outdoor, open area (depending on how many guests you expect)
  • A stage (so everyone can see)
  • A tent (yes, a tent)

Wait, why do you need to rent tent? For many good reasons. Keep reading to discover how a tent is just as important as the music at your outdoor music festival.

Rent a tent to protect the stage and equipment

Maybe you are using your own equipment. Maybe the band you hired is bringing their own. Who it belongs to doesn’t matter, but taking care of it does. Festival rental equipment is expensive! You have speakers, amplifiers, computers, instruments, lighting, etc. And each is purchased at a high cost. These items get used to set up for the performance.

Now, imagine that your band is ready to perform – or in the middle of performing – and terrible, wet weather strikes. You know that electronics and water don’t mix. That one rainstorm could lead to one very expensive night in busted equipment.

Deciding to utilize a tent for the event could prevent this damage from occurring. There would be shelter and, thus, a means of protecting the equipment from any weather-related damage.

People, people, and more people

Many people love the freedom that an outdoor music festival will bring. For one, there are no assigned seats. Everyone is free to roam while listening to their favorite music. In fact, the patrons can wander and enjoy the music without even having to see the band.

Tents are very versatile when it comes to an outdoor music festival. They offer an open platform for music lovers to dance and be social without being restrained to aisles or seats. However, if the crowd gets too large, the sides can be opened, allowing people to flow in and out of the tent with ease.

Since most concerts go on whether rain or shine, having the festivities take place in a tent can bring peace of mind to concert-goers.

No barriers mean the music can fill the air

Have you ever heard a band in a stuffy music venue? Sometimes the sound gets muffled and, with the loud volume, all you hear is music and you cannot understand the words. That doesn’t happen outside. No, sir. The music is free to travel and fill the air, allowing you to hear it from just about anywhere in the vicinity.

There is no need to worry that using a tent will hinder the sound. With the soft fabric material and open airways, there is no chance that your sound will be penalized by the tent.

You cannot predict the weather

Chances are you are not a meteorologist. Standing outside and staring at a beautiful blue sky does not mean that the storm clouds won’t pop up out of nowhere smack dab in the middle of your bands third song of the night. Sure, you could watch the weather or your local news, but that doesn’t guarantee anything. Ever. You never know about Mother Nature.

Have you ever heard the saying, ‘It’s better to be safe than sorry?’ This is one of those instances when you are better off over preparing just in case. Think about it – you have the safety of people and festival rental equipment at stake. You may want to take this into consideration and rent that tent. Just in case.

If you are going to have a mess, have it outside

People love their music. They love being social. They love dancing and love having drinks. Combine these things together and you have a potentially messy situation.

Music, after all, is a social thing. When you are drinking adult beverages and feeling the vibe of the music, you may not realize just how much alcohol you have had. It isn’t uncommon for some one – or more than one – to get sick. Holding the event in a tent offers an easy – and welcomed — escape to the outdoors when you aren’t feeling so good.

Another red flag situation is having dancers trying to bust a move with a full glass of Heineken. This usually results in spills – leading to a gross and sometimes sticky situation. Multiply this by the amount of people you see finding their groove. Now, think about those same people when the band starts playing that most popular hit song everyone has been waiting for… Let’s just say you may not want to consider sitting on the floor.  It is a good thing you made the wise decision to have the music event outdoors for easy cleanup.

An outdoor music festival can create the perfect atmosphere to bring people together – especially this time of year. However, make sure that you are prepared for anything that comes your way – and that includes weather. You don’t want damaged equipment or potential safety disasters for your music lovers. Rent a tent to make sure your event goes off without a hitch!

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