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TENTS

If you are planning on using a tent (or series of tents) for your event, here are some things to remember. Start with the number of guests that will be attending, and determine the style of event (buffet, cocktail party, theatre, sit-down dinner, etc.). Call us to calculate the space needed. We can add for a buffet area, staging, bars, musicians, etc. This square footage estimate will get you started.

There are two types of tents, frame and pole. A frame tent has no center poles to obstruct your view through the entire tent. While this is an advantage, frame tents are generally more expensive to rent, and are more difficult to rig with lighting and decoration. Most tents for a wedding of 250 or less will only have 2 center poles, and these can be "dressed" up with fabric, lighting, or fresh greens to make them more attractive.

         
Example of FRAME tent (no center poles) and POLE tent.

You are not limited to having your event under a single tent. Multiple tents can be connected via marquees (covered walkways). Rain gutters can be installed to make the entire installation water tight. You may choose to have your cocktail hour in the "lounge tent" and then move into the main tent for dinner. You may also connect the main tent to the catering tent or restrooms, etc. After the tents are installed, lighting and electrical power are added. Lighting can be as simple as a perimeter of white "twinkle" lights, or as elegant as hanging brass chandeliers. If you are using a white tent (the most common), then a most dramatic effect can be created using theatrical lighting. Using this type of up-lighting, you can turn the entire tent any color imaginable. All tents can be accessorized with fabric ceilings (shown in both examples) and an array of decorative and protective sidewalls (clear, solid, french window, etc.).