On January 20th, Ben Anderson, our Managing Partner at American Pavilion had the honor to speak at the IFAI Tent Rental Division Virtual Summit.
2020 was a challenging year financially for many in the temporary structure industry. As many events were postponed and jobsites closed, almost everyone was effected by the pandemic. Yet, the tent rental industry adapted and continues to do so. Although the past few months have been difficult, we are seeing innovative advances in clear span structures that will pave the way for the future of our industry, and all other industries that we serve.
Observations of the Tent Industry in 2020
Throughout 2020, there were many takeaways and observations that were discovered about the tent rental industry. First and foremost, relationships are crucial; not only are client and potential client relationships paramount, but also collaborative industry relationships as well. Additionally, maintaining excess inventory was a key observation that hindered many throughout the past year and will continue to play into the industry in 2021.
At the Virtual Summit, Ben discussed the financial challenges seen in 2020 and gave advice of navigating financially through 2021. As the new year begins, we will continue to adapt and innovate by utilizing the following 5 key initiatives to maximize our long-term value.
Maximizing Value
At the IFAI Tent Rental Division Virtual Summit, Ben discussed the best ways to maximize long-term value by:
Building and maintaining a complete management team
Documenting: from revenue and expenses to inventory and accounting categories
Identifying and understanding weaknesses
Optimizing inventory
Managing contingency plans for financial risk mitigation
We are honored that our very own Managing Partner, Ben Anderson was invited to speak at the IFAI Tent Rental Division Virtual Summit and work with others in the industry to share and create a better future of the tent industry as a whole. We look forward to many more years as your premier clear span tent structure partner.
Every community has a wide array of non-profit organizations that keep it healthy. And, these organizations fill the needs of many. We become so dependent on them that we can’t imagine where our community would be without them, right?
At some point or another, they all run into a problem: funding. Because they don’t work for a profit, they rely on outside income sources to meet their need – allowing them to keep working toward their cause.
So, how do they manage to get enough money to keep serving their communities day after day? You guessed it – fundraising.
We’ve put together a list of 9 fundraising event ideas to help fuel the causes in your community.
1. A Flea Market or Rummage Sale.
This is a rather simple way to raise money for your community cause. Why? Because it really doesn’t cost you much at all. As your community comes together at a local central location to donate unwanted goods – just as if having a yard sale.
Then, you gather up the goods, price them, place them out on tables, and invite the entire community to come shopping. Remember – one man’s trash is another man’s treasure! This is a great way to recycle used items while also benefiting your cause.
2. A 5k Race.
You can find races for nearly everything these days. And, you can find runners and walkers alike just looking for the opportunity to compete or challenge themselves. All you have to do is plan a 5k course, charge a fee for participation – and even ask runners to collect donations.
There are those individuals who love spending hours sitting at a blackjack table or in front of a slot machine. Then, there are others that feel as though they may as well flush their money straight down the toilet.
So, what if you could have the fun of a casino or poker night – while knowing the money you lose is going to something great in your community? Sounds like a win-win, doesn’t it?
You can set up all sorts of casino games or just stick to the poker tables. Let people gamble their money or charge a fee for admission and let them play with tokens. Either way, it is a fun night out, a chance to get rid of the gambling bug, and a way to help a good cause.
4. Have a Festival – or Concert Series!
Nearly everyone enjoys live music. Hosting a concert with a popular local band or, depending on how big you want to go, an older band from days gone by. Set up a tent, a stage, and some chairs – maybe even a dance floor. And let the music flow.
This is one of the great fundraising event ideas because you can charge an admission fee for the concert and offer concessions for a fee.
5. A Formal Dinner and Silent Auction.
Did you know that silent auctions often bring in quite a bit of money? If you decide to host one for your community cause, there is a good chance the philanthropy genes of those you invite will be exposed. People who have the means don’t often like to boast about their spending – or even share it, for that matter. But, when you have some great people/companies – local and not – donate some magnificent items for auction, you may be surprised at the funds you raise.
Pair the auction with a formal dinner and you are presenting your guests with a great night out.
6. A Carnival.
Carnivals are fun for kids and adults, alike. Set up your own carnival with games and treats galore. Let the community stop in and have some fun! You can raise money by selling tickets for the games, selling carnival foods, and even having a cakewalk!
7. Outdoor Movies.
Everyone loves a good movie. And, everyone loves a good movie outdoors even more. Set up a screen and projector and show a select movie that you know your intended audience will love. Then, invite them to bring pillows, blankets, sweatpants and PJs. Offer a selection of movie-going concessions, such as candy, nachos, and popcorn, for a fee.
It’s likely to be a much-welcomed great escape.
Conclusion
You’ve got your choice of what type of event to have and you’ve got your choice of where to have it. But, one thing is for sure – having an event outdoors, under a tent, can allow you much, much more freedom.
And you don’t have to worry about the outdoor climate or the size of your event. Tents can be completely customizable – giving you just the right size while keeping unwanted weather conditions out. This makes sure your event can go on no matter what Mother Nature has in store.
If you are ready to stand up for your community cause and raise some money, one of these fundraising event ideas is sure to bring it in. Which one will you try?
A simple yet festive cocktail party may just be the ticket to best celebrate the New Year winter season! Make your event a day or night to remember by following these 5 must-haves.
Cocktail parties are always fun. A time to kick back, relax, and enjoy the company of those around you – all while enjoying some delightful adult beverages. They don’t necessarily require anything formal, such as an organized itinerary or even a sit-down, plated meal. That’s what makes them so great.
And, there is no better time than winter to get your friends, family, colleagues, or whoever together to mingle over some spirits. After all, now that the holidays are over, everyone could likely use an excuse to let loose a little, don’t you think?
While it may feel like a lighter version of a party or event, it does not need to be treated as such. So, if you are throwing a winter cocktail party, then here are the must-haves you need to make sure it’s a hit!
Must-Have #1: Decide on a Theme
Take a moment to think about all the events you have been to. Which do you remember more – those with a theme or those without?
Themes are fun. They are a chance for guests to get into character, enjoy something they don’t usually get to, or just indulge themselves in their imagination in a make-believe (yet, very real) world.
So, when it comes to throwing a winter cocktail party, you need a theme. A quick internet search will yield you a ton of results, such as:
Beach getaway theme (perfect for those who are growing tired of the dark, cold days of winter)
Choose a theme that you think will be fun and enjoyable for those on your guest list. However, just remember to let your guests know of your chosen theme. This will enable them to partake in the theme by coming in character.
Or, at the very least, be prepared for what they will encounter. Incorporating them with the invitation is a great way to do this.
Must-Have #2: Choose the Perfect Location
You can have the best cocktail party, but if you choose a poor location, it can go downhill before it even starts! If you want the best choose for a location, choose it outdoors.
Yes, it is wintertime. But, you won’t regret your decision. Here’s why:
Renting an event tent allows you the freedom to host your party anywhere without worry – your backyard, a local park, vacant lot, parking lot, etc. The idea would be to decide on a convenient and easily accessible location that will be a breeze for your guests.
This tent is easily erected and will provide you with all the protection you need. Sidewalls to keep the cold out. Flooring to make it feel more like an indoor space. And, a wide-open, blank canvas for you to transform into the most magically-themed winter cocktail party ever.
What more could you ask for?
It is important to note that event tent rentals can also come with climate control. This means that no matter what the weather is outside, the temperature under your tent will be perfect.
Must-Have #3: Serving the Proper Food
Moving on, you will want to serve the proper food. For a cocktail party, the food is often simple and light. In other words, these are small plate items that can be easily eaten in one bite and not require a formal dining arrangement.
Here’s the idea that you must have: When it comes to serving food at your themed event, you need to ensure that it coincides with the theme itself. In fact, it is just another way to make the party seem more thought-out and planned.
The cocktails you serve are just as important – if not more important – than the food. While you will likely want to have a variety of liquor and other alcohol to serve your guests (remember, everyone’s taste buds are different), it is a good idea to pick a signature drink for the event.
Selecting a particular drink of the night should also match your theme. For instance, if you are having a beach getaway them, then serving an ice-cold Bahama Mama or Hurricane may seem fit.
And, why not try serving them in coconuts! Of course, if your theme is a winter ski chalet, perhaps having a hot beverage, such as Rumchata hot cocoa or hot buttered rum will be more fitting.
Must-Have #5: Things to Do
Well, now that you have your guests there, what will they do? At cocktail parties, you don’t have to have formal entertainment as you would at other, more formal events. Remember, the evening is light. However, it is important that you have some sort of entertainment.
To bring a little extra fun to the party, you can…
Set up a photo booth for guests to enjoy. And, you can capture memories of your event.
Have a local live band or even play music from one of your own playlists.
Create games or other activities that go alongside your theme, such as casino games for a casino night or maybe a dance competition for a disco theme.
Your cocktail party is supposed to be a fun and relaxing experience. Don’t complicate things with hefty entertainment and a large itinerary.
Cocktail Party Ready
As you plan your cocktail party, it is important to keep in mind that a happy guest leads to a successful party. Take steps to ensure that your guests are warm, taken care of, and enjoying themselves. With careful planning, this should be simple to do.
In fact, throwing a winter cocktail party can be one of the best things you’ve done all year – especially if you follow these tips – choose a convenient location, invest in a tent rental, embrace a stellar theme, get your good and drink in perfect order, and bring the entertainment.
It’s the end of the year, which means it’s time to throw a New Year’s party! Make this one unique by taking it outdoors in the fresh air. We got you covered with these 6 ways for you and your guests to stay warm!
There is so much going on this time of year. From holiday festivities and family get-togethers to company banquets and end-of-year celebrations. But, thanks to the awfully cold winter weather, most of these activities end up taking place indoors.
After all, it is the only sure-fire way to keep people warm when the temperature drops, right?
Wrong.
Believe it or not, you can throw an outdoor event in the wintertime and still keep your guests warm. And, it doesn’t involve any difficult work, either.
Besides, germs run rampant indoors when the weather gets cold. So, give yourself – and your guests – a break from the bacterial breeding ground and head outdoors for some winter warmth.
Don’t worry, don’t worry – we are going to show you just how to do it. When all is said and done, you and your guests will have enjoyed their break from the norm and feel rejuvenated from the fresh, outdoor air.
Let’s get started – here are your 6 ways to stay warm at outdoor New Year parties this winter.
1. Make Use of Fire Pits
Fire pits are fun. They put a bit more glam into a normal campfire by bringing it off the ground and often contained in something much more decorative than you might imagine.
Fire pits come in different sizes. To keep your guests warm, sitting around a fire pit is a must. So, depending on the size of your party, you may want to make sure you have enough to go around.
As the temperatures drop the closer to midnight it gets, the more people will want to be huddled by the fire. Just make sure they can!
2. Stop the Wind
If you have an outdoor party area already, you may think that the cold air will stop you from making use of it this winter. However, there is something you can do that may help you tremendously.
Place a sheet, curtain, or patio shade up on the side from where the wind is blowing. While it may not totally warm up the space, it will remove the chill from the heavy wind. Add a space heater or fire pit, and you should be golden.
Keep in mind that this option will only work if your space allows for the windy side to be blocked.
3. Invest in a Tent Rental
Tent rentals come in all sorts of sizes. This means that it does not matter whether you are having a small or large New Year’s party – there is a tent available just for you. They are easily installed in your backyard, an empty parking lot, a local vacant field, and so on.
But wait, you may think that having a tent rental doesn’t mean you are going to be warm, right? Again – you are wrong.
Tent rentals come with so many options and accessories. For instance, you can opt for flooring and sidewalls. Both choices will work to keep the warmth inside the tent. There is an even better option – climate control.
Adding climate control to your tent rental is essentially turning your outdoor space into an indoor space. It works to maintain the air within the tent at your desired temperature.
4. Serve Up Some Warm Beverages
If you want to have people over for a New Year’s party outside, then you will have to keep them warm. One way to do this is to offer them a hot beverage. This could be coffee, hot chocolate, hot tea, and so forth. But know this – it does not have to be boring.
Think about it – this is the last day of this year. The last thing that you want to do is have a boring party and hand your guests a drink of something that they don’t want, regardless of warmth.
So then, what do you do? You spruce it up. Give your guests options and choices that they will want to drink – and that they will enjoy. All the while, keeping them warm from the inside out.
A quick search on the internet will land you a lot to choose from, but here are a few ideas to help get your mind churning:
Sometimes guests may not realize from the invite that the party is outdoors. Or maybe they do, but don’t take into consideration just how cold it really is when outside for an extended period of time. So, by offering your guests the essentials to keep warm, the party can proceed without any hiccups.
These essentials may include things, such as:
Scarves
Mittens or gloves
Fleece throw blankets
Shaws
Fuzzy socks and/or slippers
Insulated hand warmers
Hats
6. Warm the Décor
Outdoor furniture is designed to withstand outdoor elements. For this very reason oftentimes, they are constructed using a durable metal or other material. While it can hold up to inclement weather conditions, it is still going to get cold. And well, asking your guests to sit on cold furniture is just not nice.
Thankfully there is a solution. Use cushions, pillows, throws and more to bring warmth to the outdoor furniture. When it comes to flooring, add a variety of rugs. The combination of these two not only brings about physical warmth but give the appearance of warmth, too.
Conclusion
Throwing a New Years’ bash is a great way to say goodbye to the old and welcome the new. Though, try something new so your guests won’t have to ring in the New Year while cooped up inside.
By using fire pits, serving warm drinks, warming up the décor – or renting a temporary tent structure with climate control – you will be sure to have a wonderful, warm, and festive celebration!
Fall is a beautiful time of year with the brightly colored leaves and cooler weather, making it ideal for your big day. These fall wedding ideas will ensure that your day is perfect.
This time of year is a signal that all the winter months are on their way and the holiday season is right around the corner. Time to put away your swimming gear and dig out those furry boots, soft sweaters, and colorful scarves.
Grab a pumpkin spice anything and head outdoors. You will be walking into the most beautiful setting you can imagine. It sure is safe to say that fall puts us in a cozy mood.
Add a little love to the air – and fall can turn magical.
If you have decided to have a wedding during the fall months, then you are not going to want to miss these 7 fall wedding ideas that will make your big day perfect.
1. Use the Outdoors
The outdoors can bring such an amazing view during this time of year. The brightly colored leaves make the perfect backdrop for photos. And, you know you are going to take a lot of photos. So, what does this need from you?
The perfect location.
Choose an outdoor location that is open and spacious to host either your ceremony, reception, or both. It is an absolute must that this area has a wide variety of fall foliage to use as a backdrop when it is time for pictures.
Talk about some brightly-colored, vibrant colors that will make you shine in photos!
2. Go Rustic
Rustic is simple and rural. It doesn’t necessarily have smooth edges. And an outdoor, fall wedding is the perfect place – and time – for rustic décor.
Making use of things such as wooden pallets, woven potato sacks, mason jars, and so forth can add to the space.
Add things such as brightly colored bouquets, sunflowers, and naked or semi-naked wedding cakes will all bring the color and texture that will make a rustic wedding pop.
3. Take Advantage of Fruit
What are the two fruits you think about this time of year? You guessed it – apples and pumpkins (yes, pumpkins are a fruit.) So, why not incorporate them into your wedding décor? Here are a couple of ideas about how you can do just that.
Use carved out pumpkins as a bouquet holder for your table centerpieces. Or simply use whole pumpkins.
Carve a hole into the top of apples and insert a tealight candle (preferably the battery-operated variety for increased safety). Place the apples around the tables, serving areas, or wherever you believe could use a little glow.
Simply use apples as they come to decorate serving areas, tables, and so forth. Think of them as edible décor.
This is a perfect way to include the bounty of the harvest season.
4. Rent a Tent
This may be the wisest choice you make for your fall wedding. The weather can be unpredictable at any time of the year. And, if you want to make sure your big day is perfect, then you will want to rent a tent for protection.
Before you nix the idea because your idea of an outdoor fall wedding includes all the foliage, you should know that you have options. Renting a tent means that you can have…
Wide-open sides and just a top cover.
Sidewalls and a top cover with the ability to open and close the sidewalls as needed.
A tent made of clear fabric so you can be protected from the weather at every angle without losing the beautiful backdrop you are seeking.
5. Bring the Outdoors In
The fall foliage is what warms the heart. So, why not incorporate it into your wedding décor? Bring the outdoors in. Decorate with leaves, flowers, and bouquets in bright fall colors, and so on.
Remember, you will need decorations, centerpieces, bouquets for the wedding party, and so much more. Choose what will fit your whole theme.
6. Take Advantage of Daylight Savings Time
Depending on where you live, when, and what time you decide to hold the festivities, Daylight Savings Time may be a factor to consider. After all, this is the time of year it gets dark earlier – meaning that you may have to schedule your wedding time accordingly.
Here’s an idea: what if you use this time change to your advantage?
Hosting an afternoon wedding means that it will likely grow dark during your reception. Therefore, you have the best of both worlds. You get to see the bright colors of the leaves that surround you light up in a golden glow as the sun sets for the day. Then, you can allow the space to transform with the soft glow of carved pumpkins, lanterns, and light-up mason jars.
7. Take-Home Ideas for Guests
While you may be very focused on what your big day is all about, you can’t forget the guests that come to help you celebrate. Creating a wedding favor for each guest to take home is almost, well, expected. And, with your wedding all about the season, your gift should be, too. Here are a few ideas:
A decorative (or simple) scarf. After all, winter is right around the corner. Keep in mind that if you live in an area the gets a bit chilly when the sun goes down, your guests may welcome this gift at the reception!
Candied apples. Create various candy apples with different toppings. Or, set up a table for guests to create their own.
Fill a mason jar. This could be with certain candies, homemade jam, or even everything needed for apple cider.
Get creative and make your guests feel special.
Conclusion
This is a perfect time to tie the knot, and with these fall wedding ideas, your big day is bound to be a success.
The brightness around you while outdoors can only add to the shine you already have. So, don’t waste your time indoors and, instead, take advantage of everything nature has to offer you.
Rent a tent, carve some pumpkins, and have the most colorfully rustic wedding of you could ever imagine.
It’s already August and the Labor Day holiday will be here before we know it! It’s time for a good old Labor Day party as a treat for all our hard work. Here’s how you can celebrate with close friends and family this year!
Labor Day signifies so many things. It is a time for you to step out of the office and into the fresh air, allowing your mind to relax and rejuvenate. It is the last long weekend before families begin preparing for the fall events, such as the return of school and all the snowball of holidays that form the entire season. And, most significantly, Labor Day means that summer is coming to a close.
Well, you can’t let summer get away without a proper farewell, right?
Throw the perfect Labor Day party this year to say goodbye to summertime memories and hello to a fresh new school year and season.
Here are 7 steps that you need to know.
Step One: Create Your Invite List
Before you can decide on anything for your Labor Day party, you need to create your invite list:
Who do you want to spend time with?
Who do you want to benefit from your party?
Who do you think will be available to come?
Make the decision of whether you want friends, co-workers, family, or all three to attend your party. In addition, you will want to decide whether you are throwing a family shindig or more of an adults’ evening out.
Once you know this information, decide on the perfect date and time and begin creating your actual invitations.
Step Two: Find the Perfect Location
Of course, deciding on your location is very important for your party planning. After all, you can’t send out the invitations or begin to plan the rest of the event if you don’t know your location.
Because Labor Day falls at the end of summer, you will want to take advantage of the outdoors. This is especially the case if you live in a region that will soon the soaking in dropping temperatures.
Take advantage of the still-long summer days and the warm outdoor sunshine while you can. Besides, hosting a party outdoors leaves you with a ton of options when it comes to party planning.
So, find the outdoor location that will work for your party. Consider things, such as:
Making sure the location is easily accessible.
Confirming the size of the space will meet your needs.
Parking is easily available.
Step Three: Rent a Tent
What happens when you decide to follow through with an outdoor party, find the perfect location, and you realize too late that there is no shelter from the sun, rain, and other weather conditions?
All your party planning was a waste as your guests will likely head out unhappy and your decorations, food, and such will be ruined.
It is for this very reason that your next step when planning the perfect Labor Day party should be to rent a tent.
Before you have time to consider that you wanted a low-key party and a tent may send it overboard, consider all of the perks that come with a tent rental:
Cover to protect your decorations, food, party favors, and more.
A clearly designated party area.
A transformed space if you desire, with walls, flooring, and more.
Tents are incredibly versatile, leaving you with many, many options.
Step Four: Go for a Theme
Admit it – themed parties are fun! They are perfect for laughs, creativity, and letting your guard down. This is especially true for adults. Consider creating your Labor Day party around a theme.
Then, you can either use the theme solely for the decorations, food, etc. Or, you can let your attending guests know of the theme in advance so that they may dress to participate.
There are so many ideas out there if you just do a quick search online. Or, use your own imagination and get creative!
Step Five: Grub on Delicious Food
You can’t have a Labor Day party without some tasty food. And, since you are taking the party outdoors, it may be best to stick with foods, such as a barbecue.
Avoid the heavy, fancy dinners – and stick to something easy, unique, and delicious that fits an outdoor celebration.
Step Six: Drinks?
Drinks are a must – especially since the party is honoring all those hard workers you know. Many people like to kick back with an ice-cold adult beverage. And, today they definitely deserve that.
Choose a beverage of the day, one that takes your decorations and theme into consideration. For instance, something tropical for a luau or something red, white, and blue for a patriotic party. Of course, you can always just have a mix of drink options available and forego the “specialty.”
Be sure to have non-alcoholic options available, too. And, consider making them just as exciting. Even if you do not have kids attending, it is always good to assume that not everyone will be drinking.
Step Seven: Don’t Forget the Entertainment
Think about what your guests will do at your party:
Music and entertainment are crucial if you want your guests to have a good time at your party. So, be sure to think it through, based on the age group and guests attending and the theme of the party.
Make it fun, exciting, and memorable.
Final Tips for Your Labor Day Party
Throwing the perfect Labor Day party means leaving your guests with a feeling of relaxation, while also empowering them to freshly face a new day at the office.
Labor Day falls on a Monday, often requiring work the following day. Don’t party too hard, but rather, enjoy one another’s company, laugh, play, and take in the real meaning of this well-deserved day.
With so many distractions these days, finding creative ways to market your brand is difficult – but it can be easier with these 6 event marketing ideas.
Marketing an event, whether you are hosting it or participating in it, will require you to be creative. Of course, how creative you get may depend on your industry. Some are much larger and more competitive than others.
No matter what, though, if you are working to make your brand known, then you need some skills.
When it comes to event marketing ideas to elevate your brand, you are going to need to call in back up. Good thing – we’ve got you covered. Literally. (yes, that pun was intended). Here are 6 ideas to get your name out there.
1. Create Friends, Not Presentations
People get nervous when it comes to first-time business and networking interactions. After all, you have to be friendly, shake hands, and make that awkward small talk with strangers.
Do this over and over again throughout an event, the chances of anyone actually remembering someone is quite slim.
So, what can you do to make yourself – as the representative of your brand – known and remembered by everyone you come in contact with?
Make friends.
Be genuine, kind, and comfortable. Talk to the people you meet as if they were your new friend. Mention your brand and talk about it, but do so as if you were talking to a friend.
Don’t make it awkward. Don’t state memorized facts and numbers. And, by all means, don’t follow a script.
2. All About the Hashtags
In our world full of social media, hashtags are a must when marketing your event. When you have an event on the horizon, creating – and heavily using – a hashtag can increase your presence.
It is a great way to get your brand in the forefront of event-goers minds. And, well, anyone who stumbles upon the hashtag.
If you are privy to email lists, send out an email regarding the event and include the chosen hashtag to follow. Let your audience know that you will keep them up to date with what is happening before, during, and after the event.
When you market your event on your social media accounts, be sure to keep the posts engaging.
For instance, create reveals showing the event unfold. Or, continual pieces of something that they can try to guess what it is – that won’t be revealed until the event. Talk about giveaways and various contests, etc.
You get the idea.
3. Custom-Branded Event Tents
If you truly want to elevate the awareness of your brand, then you need to visibly make yourself known and your events. You need to be present with a heavy presence.
An event tent is completely customizable. This means you can have your own logos, colors, hashtags, and so forth printed directly on the tent. It is one of the most memorable event marketing ideas to help people recognize your brand.
The more they see you at events, the sooner they will recognize you.
Invest in signage that will match the event tent with your catch-phrase, name, logo, and more. Place the signs in various formats throughout the event.
Pop up your customized tent whenever and wherever seems logical.
Get yourself out there – and let your tent speak for you.
4. Announce a Giveaway – and Make It Known
People love free stuff. It is that simple. Whether you are giving away pens or tropical vacations, you will get interaction. But, how can you make a giveaway elevate your brand awareness?
Announce it and make it known.
Now, this is not going to work with something such as pens. It is going to require something bigger – something that will entice people and get them talking.
Here are a few ideas for event giveaways, but you’ve got an infinite amount of possibilities to choose from.
Free expert advice with an extended, personalized consultation.
Something worthwhile relative to your industry.
For event marketing, choose something you think your event attendees would appreciate and desire. Otherwise, you may find that you are wasting time and effort.
Once you choose your idea, create a giveaway specific website. Get people talking about the giveaway and get them excited to attend and sign up.
5. Make Yourself Stand Out
Blending in with the crowd will never get you anywhere. You’ve got to make yourself stand out with your event marketing!
Wear goofy costumes or brightly-colored shirts with funny sayings.
Wear loud, stand-out hats.
Have yourself and your team take on the role of different characters in the most popular series, i.e. think Stranger Things.
When attendees run into you, they should be able to know who you are and who you are with. Don’t allow yourself to fit in with everyone else.
Be bold.
6. Go Big with a Small Crowd
Imagine, if you will, that you take your kids and all their friends to the water park outside of Disneyland.
They can see the castle. They can see everything around them is Disney-related. But, they will hang out with all their friends outside the parks.
Why?
Because you brought more people, your budget wouldn’t allow for you to go to the big parks. So, instead, you all will enjoy the little water park.
Now, what if you chose not to bring all those friends? What if you only took your kids? Your budget would allow you to take to Disneyland to have one of the most memorable vacations of their lifetime.
That is how you should make guests feel at events.
It is better to spend money to create a magnificent impression on a smaller crowd than to give a mediocre impression to a larger crowd.
People remember the things that you do for them. And, they remember how they were treated and the experiences they have. If you can take an event and make it personal and memorable, you will elevate your brand and you will create lasting followers.
But, by using these event marketing ideas such as custom-branded event tents, giveaways, and hashtags, you can make yourself recognizable within the bigger picture.
Planning your reception is just as important as planning the ceremony itself; so take a meaningful first step and rent a wedding reception tent.
This is your time to shine with your newly partnered self and all your family and friends. It is when you will celebrate and rejoice in the love that is between you and your spouse and the love that flows around you. Of course, it’s also the perfect time for a toast, a few cocktails, maybe dinner, some dancing, and some mingling.
In all, you need your wedding ceremony to be the perfection you have always dreamed about, but you need your wedding reception to be perfect, too. If you are planning an outdoor wedding reception, to ensure that all goes well, you are going to want to take a meaningful first step: rent a tent.
To make the most of your wedding reception tent rental, we’ve got your guide to perfection.
Why You Need a Wedding Reception Tent
You may love the outdoors and just know that it where you want to celebrate.
But, Mother Nature often has her own agenda – and your wedding day just may be the day she wants to wreak havoc on your area. Don’t leave yourself and your wedding reception vulnerable to the great outdoors.
With a wedding reception tent, you can still enjoy being outside with having some of the perks of protection indoors can bring. Besides, there are so many benefits:
Before you can even determine where you will construct it, you will need to know its dimensions. But, to discover the dimensions, you will need to have an idea of what your guest list – and your overall wedding reception – will look like.
Calculating space requires knowing what you will be doing.
Many Considerations
Will you have a stage? A dance floor? Will you be providing a sit-down, plated meal? Or, will you be serving your guests a buffet? Maybe you are simply having cocktails and tapas.
Whatever you do requires a specific amount of space. To get the tent to best fit your needs, you will need to have this information when you rent it. But, to get an idea of spacing for yourself, here is a good rule of thumb:
Having a dinner, plated or buffet, with large round tables, multiply the number of guests by 12.
If you are using banquet tables, multiply the number of guests by 10.
Having a cocktail party with limited seating, then multiply the number of guests by 8.
Keep in mind that this is just a general idea to calculate the required square footage.
Location, Location, Location
You can plan your wedding outdoors and be prepared with a tent, but if you pick a less-than-stellar location, there is likely little you can do to make it better.
Take time to decide where you want to hold your reception. You have a lot of flexibility with a tent rental as they are incredibly versatile.
In fact, they can be erected on nearly any surface – grass, dirt or sand, concrete, asphalt, etc.
So, the things you want to look for (or, at least keep in mind) are:
The Proximity:
Proximity of the reception space to the wedding ceremony is important.
Will you be holding them in the same location?
If not, you don’t want to have your guests driving too great of a distance between the two.
Be sure you find a location that will fit your needs – at a reasonable distance.
The Size:
The size of the space is important.
If you are renting a tent for 200 people, then you don’t want to choose a location that only has space for a 50-person tent.
Likewise, if you have 50 people, you may not need a full tent that fits 200 people.
Keep in mind that you will want some moveable space around the outside of the tent, as well.
Parking:
Do not forget parking unless you plan to bus your guests or have them walk, you will need to make sure the parking accommodations will fit your tented space.
If there is no parking lot, be sure that you have enough room for a makeshift parking area.
Pay Attention to the Accessories
When renting a wedding reception tent, it is important to remember that you are moving everyone outdoors.
In other words, you are stripping your guests and wedding party of all the conveniences they have grown to love of modern-day structures.
What does this mean for accessories?
You will want to invest in the things that will make your wedding reception go smoothly while keeping everyone safe and comfortable. Of course, throw in all those extras that will give you the overall look you are seeking.
Here are a few ideas:
Portable restrooms
Dumpsters
Lighting
Tables and chairs
Dinnerware, drinkware, and silverware
Flooring is another important accessory to consider. Depending on the ground underneath the tent, you may want to invest in flooring for your tented space. This is especially important if you are not having a casual wedding. Formal attire and grass or dirt don’t necessarily mix.
With available heating and air conditioning systems, you may want to consider adding this to your tent. If you are holding a wedding in a climate that is either too cold or too hot for the comfort of most individuals, providing a climate controlled space under your tent will be much welcomed.
Final Thoughts
Your wedding is likely to be one of the most memorable days of your lives.
If you want to host it outdoors, then go for it. But, do so smartly. Don’t allow anything to stand in the way of your big day – including the weather and flying insects.
Tents are simple, versatile options for creating the perfect outdoor wedding reception space wherever you want it to be. If there is room, it can happen.
Summer weddings are extremely common, and they come with their own pros and cons. Before your big day, here are 10 wedding essentials to consider.
Summertime is when the beauty from Spring is in full force. The sun is shining, the weather is warm, the grass is green and, flowers and trees and blooming and thriving. It’s beautiful outdoors. Well, except for the occasional rainstorm.
It is no wonder why so many people – especially those who love the outdoors – what to have a wedding in the midst of it. That means looking at every corner and seeing a natural beauty. It also means that if it rains, you are getting soaked or having to quickly move into Plan B mode (if you even have one).
This list includes 10 wedding essentials to consider, before it’s too late.
10 Wedding Essentials & Things to Consider
Thankfully, you have options for outdoor summer weddings. One of which is renting a wedding tent.
They come with so many perks – and they give you the confidence in moving forward, knowing that your special day will kick off as planned, regardless of rain or shine.
So, grab your tent and start planning with these summer wedding essentials.
1. Consider the Weather
When you mention a summertime outdoor wedding, the weather is usually the first thing on everybody’s mind.
Make sure your venue of choice has some airflow to keep the peace. If the temps are too high, you and your guests will be having a miserable time.
2. Know Policies and Permit Regulations
Sometimes there is more involved than simply renting a tent.
Depending on where you intend to hold the wedding and construct the tent, you may encounter a need for obtaining a permit or abiding by rules regarding placement, sizing, etc.
In order for your wedding day to go off without a hitch, it is important for you to dot all your i’s and cross your t’s.
3. Know Your Budget (and How to Stick to It)
One of the biggest summer wedding essentials is utilizing your budget smartly.
When you rent venue space for your wedding, your space usually comes with electricity and facilities. However, when you opt to rent a tent, you are essentially starting with a blank shell.
That is what makes them so perfect. You are able to design your wedding space exactly how you want it.
Your tent rental will be a wide open space. One of the perks of tent rentals for weddings is that you get to design how you want the layout set up. However, it is very important that you keep the entire event in mind when planning this part.
You will be maneuvering many guests throughout the space, potentially between:
Again, by opting for a tent wedding, you can design the space any way you want.
Flipping through magazine after magazine and pinning hundreds on Pinterest, there is a good chance you have a very detailed idea of how you want your wedding tent to be styled.
Just be sure to take the space and your guests comfort into consideration when you do.
6. Consider Electrical Outlets
Unless you are taking your wedding back to a long past era, there is a high chance that you will need access to power.
This could be for cooking, lighting, music, and entertainment, or even just a place to charge your cell phones.
Be sure to plan ahead so that you have enough power to do everything you plan to.
7. Create a Wedding Dress Code
How do you envision your wedding day?
Do you want your guests to be dressed out to the max?
Or are you looking for a low-key, casual affair?
This is something to keep in mind on your big day if you choose an outdoor, tented wedding. Having a formal dress code means women in heels and men in suits.
For summer temps and grassy areas, these could both pose an inconvenience. Of course, opting for a climate-controlled tent with flooring could solve this problem entirely.
8. Find Decorations to Create a Magical Space
When you begin creating your space, you have a blank canvas to do what you want with. In fact, you can make your special day into whatever you have always dreamed of:
String lights
Hang fabric
Magnificent centerpieces
A dance floor
Carpeting
Couches and cocktail tables
Or, dinner seating with 10 tables for eight
Whatever vision you have in your head, that is what you can design. It just requires a little planning first.
When renting your tent, ask about all the options for accessories and you may be surprised at how easy it is to get everything ordered at one time. This is an important day so transform it into something wonderful.
9. Don’t Forget About Outdoor Pests
When you throw your wedding outdoors, know that you are doing so in the home of wildlife and creatures, big and small. And, well some insects, too.
These may not be as welcomed as you’d like to be when celebrating. Take precautionary steps – in advance – to keep unwanted pests at bay. After all, you should be the focus of the day – not the pesky bugs!
10. Finally, Relax
This is your big day. You know, that one you have waited so long for. You’ve made the smart decision to rent a tent for your outdoor celebration. So, the rest will be a piece of cake.
Keep your stress to a minimum and have the confidence that you did all you needed to for the day to be perfect – and it will be.
Conclusion
Renting a tent can allow you to have a beautiful outdoor wedding this summer, come rain or shine. Take advantage of all they have to offer.
With these summer wedding essentials, you’ll have the perfect wedding. Design your plan and put it into action. Then, sit back and enjoy the special day you have been waiting for.
Spring is the time of year when you find all sorts of events going on outdoors; now your party planning can get easier with these spring event ideas.
It’s almost as if the world is awakening and ready to enjoy all there is to offer during this time.
Warm weather, sunshine, green grass with blossoming flowers, birds chirping – all surrounding an outdoor event.
Sounds like the perfect backdrop for a party or event, doesn’t it?
Types of Spring Events
There are many kinds of spring events: from family get-togethers and corporate events to baby showers and graduation parties.
Regardless of your event, there is one thing you need to welcome in spring: a tent.
If you are ready to get everyone together and spring into spring with an outdoor tent event but aren’t sure what type of celebration you’d like to have, why not start planning one of these spring events?
1. Brunch
Brunch is always fun. Formed as a combination of breakfast and lunch, brunch brings elements of both meals together.
Serve a nice selection of:
Fruits
Finger foods
Breakfast foods
Sandwiches
It’s a simple menu of variety that will go over well with your guests.
Depending on where you live, spring events can either still be a little cool or it can be quite hot and steamy.
By choosing to host a brunch, you can make great use of the best part of the day before the weather gets too hot and unbearable – but not too early that it’s too chilly.
A tent can help balance the temperature, whichever way it leans. And, it gives you a definitive place to decorate with your spring décor.
In addition, the spring mornings bring trees and air filled with birds. By having their chirping as background noise to your event, it can be a reminder of the goodness of nature, the beauty of other creatures, and the confirmation that spring is really here.
2. Corporate BBQ
There is a good chance that your employees are a bit squirmy this time of year. They’ve spent all winter waiting for warmer, brighter weather. And, now that they have it, staying indoors at work becomes harder and harder to do.
The best part is that you can rent a tent that can be erected anywhere – including in your company’s parking lot. So, you don’t have to necessarily go anywhere.
Use the tent to set up the dining area for your employees and fire up the grill. To make it a bit more exciting, put together some games and prizes for everyone to enjoy.
3. A Garden Tea Party
Spring time means the flowers are blossoming and the hues of greens and all things colorful are coming to life. Why not have a party in your backyard garden?
Make it an afternoon tea party and you will soon discover how refreshing it is to breathe in the delightful, outdoor air.
Because the weather can get a bit too warm or unpredictable, choosing to rent a tent can mean that you are protected – and your garden tea party can go on – no matter what Mother Nature has in mind.
Get your friends together and make it happen. You deserve this and so do they.
Besides, surrounding yourself with beautiful nature can have amazing – and positive – effects on the body.
4. A Summer-Is-Coming Kickoff Party for Kids
Beat the rush on summer pool parties. Let the little ones in your life get out the squirms sooner, rather than later.
This is surely going to hit home with you if you have kids who have been begging to go into the pool all winter. Or, if you live in an area that closes down outdoor fun zones through the cooler seasons.
Spring signals the return of the all American sport of baseball. Are you a fan? Why not have a baseball party to kick off the season?
Rent a tent and deck it out with your favorite team’s colors and logo. Or, simply use general baseball themes. Then, invite your friends over.
Cookout, play your own games of baseball and chat about all the upcoming games.
It’s the perfect reason to enjoy the outdoors as well as spend time with those who are important in your life.
6. A Baby Shower
Know anyone having a baby?
For all those who found out they were pregnant in the fall, springtime baby showers are happening everywhere.
With springtime bringing the blossoming and blooming of flowers and beauty, it’s the perfect setting for a baby shower outdoors.
Rent a tent and let your friends and family spread out and enjoy the festivities. Besides, the outdoor venue allows for more room to move about – and more space to play some of those fun baby games!
7. Outdoor Picnic
Picnics are wonderful. Picking a quiet time to pack up a basket lunch and gather your family outdoors to get some fresh air.
It doesn’t have to be formal or involve a lot of guests. Simply get your loved ones together and spend a day outdoors.
Using a tent rental can allow you to be sure you are protected should inclement weather appear. Or, you could:
Play frisbee
Scrimmage a game of footbal
Even a one-legged hop race
Have fun, laugh, and make memories with a picnic outdoors with spring events.
8. An Elegant Night Under the Stars
Finally, while most people may be excited to enjoy the outdoor daylight hours of spring, there are many others who prefer the cool, fresh night.
Create a night of elegance and invite your friends and family to spend time with you under the stars.
Rent a tent with clear panels allowing you to have protection without disrupting your view. Then, go to work decorating from top to bottom. Go all out.
Get dressed up. Make it fancy. It will be a great night to welcome all that the spring and summer months are to bring.
Conclusion
Springing into spring can be a great time for many events. Rent yourself a tent and have yourself an unforgettable time surrounded by those who matter in your life.
