If you are hosting an event, you have got a lot of planning and organizing to do. After all, they surely don’t just plan themselves. You will need to determine where you are hosting your event, what event equipment you need, create a guest list and invitations, a theme, decorations, entertainment, food and beverages, party favors, etc. And, that is just an overview.
There are so many details that go into throwing some of the most memorable events. And, if you are hosting one, you will likely want yours to reach the “memorable” status, too. To get there, your event has to be good. Real good. In other words, you need the best location and the best décor can get you off to a good start.
Relax. You can get the best of everything for your event without breaking the bank.
All you have to do is rent what you need. Sure, you can always purchase the event equipment, too.
But, is renting or buying event equipment better? Which is right for you? This guide investigates the pros and cons of both.
The choice is ultimately yours.
Types of event equipment
There are many different aspects that go into planning a party, one of the most important being the equipment used for your event.
Some of the most common types of event equipment include:
- Location and venue
- Seating and tables
- Lighting
- Audio-visual equipment
You can choose to rent all of your event equipment, buy it all, or do a little of both.
We explore the benefits and cons of each option.
The venue location
The location you select for your event is going to be the first thing your guests see as they arrive – so it must be good. You can choose a permanent location, but it is going to come with its quirks and, if you are trying to make a good impression, sometimes it is better to start from scratch.
Rent a tent. If you’d prefer, you can buy one. But if you are throwing a one-time event, renting will save you from making a big purchase. Then, you can have your tent erected in any location you see fit. Choose a vacant field, a park, your backyard, or even an empty parking lot.
Tent rentals can be designed to meet your exact needs, from sizing requirements to side panels, flooring, glass entry doors, etc. Make it over to be a magnificent venue for your event. Then, when the party is over – you return the venue and no longer have to worry about it. How great is that?
Seating and tables
The amount of seating and tables you will need is going to vary greatly on the size of the event you are having – and what the event is all about. In fact, there are several different scenarios you could find yourself throwing an event for – and each one will differ in its requirements for furniture.
Here are just a few examples:
- If you are holding an event with a speaker, musician, or other such entertainment, then you will definitely want chairs or seating that can be easily organized into rows. This same need holds true for many wedding ceremonies.
- If you intend to hold a cocktail party, then your guests are going to need a place to sit down their cocktail and appetizer plates. This makes cocktail tables and bar-type seating a great investment.
- Other events, such as formal engagements or wedding receptions, are going to require formal dining sets – especially if you are offering a full meal. This means you will need to be sure to have enough tables and chairs for all guests.
The needs of each and every event will vary. Some may require these items, others may just require picnic tables and giant pillows on the floor.
Whatever your needs, you will be faced with the choice – do you buy? Or do you rent?
If you are not an avid party hostess, then you may want to give a great amount of consideration to renting the equipment – this will give you the option of having the items delivered and assembled. And, it will leave you without having to worry about where to store the equipment when the party is over.
Lighting
The lighting of your event can make a dramatic effect. Lighting sets the ambiance for the festivities and it also can add to the décor. There are so many types of lighting to choose from and, whether you want to light up a whole space or you want one spectacular lighting fixture, you may be looking at a hefty bill.
You can choose from lighting, such as:
- Candles
- Lanterns
- Sting lights
- Strobe lights
- Chandeliers
- Candelabra
- Stage lighting
Or perhaps you are looking for colorful lighting to light your venue or splash it with words, such as a company name or the like.
There are so many ways in which lighting can brighten an event. But if you don’t know how to utilize it, it may be best to leave it to the experts.
Choosing to rent the event equipment will usually come with help, too.
Audio-visual event equipment
While audio-visual event equipment may not be on every event’s must-have list, it surely is on many. And, this can not only require some knowledge of the equipment – how to create with it what you need, how to set up and run the equipment, and so much more.
Audio-visual equipment can come with a large price tag. If you are only needing it for one event, it may be in your best interest to stick to a rental.
To rent or to buy: the most important question
When you begin the planning for your event, you will want to ask yourself this question: will I need it again?
If you answer yes, then perhaps you’d be better off purchasing the event equipment. If you are someone that often has get-togethers, events, or parties, some event equipment may definitely come in handy again.
On the other hand, if your answer is no – you will not use the event equipment again, then you know what you need to do, right?
Absolutely — rent it.
If you are looking to create a fantastic, memorable event, then you will need to create the perfect space. To do that, you will need the help of many accessories and items – such as lighting, audio-visual equipment, table settings, and so much more.
The choice is yours on whether to rent or buy the equipment. But, if you want to go all out, make a significant impact on your guests, and not go broke in doing so, then renting is your answer.