Save Money On Your Wedding Ceremony By Renting These Common Items

The average length of an engagement is 14 months, according to the Knot's 2014 Real Weddings Study. This means that the average wedding is planned over the course of a little over a year. Longer engagements such as these not only give couples time to plan their weddings but also allows them to spend money on the ceremony periodically, rather than all at once.

Because your wedding lasts only a day, renting certain items rather than buying them can save you a surprising amount of money. That way, you'll be able to put more towards your honeymoon or on starting your new life together as a married couple. Here are some common things you can rent for your ceremony:

1. Tents
   
   A tent rental is more common than you would think, particularly because most weddings take place in June when the weather is warm and pleasant enough to host the ceremony outside. Tents keep guests shaded from the rays of the sun and safe from heat. And if you have a particular tent style in mind, tents come two styles: frame tents and pole tents. No matter how unique your vision is for your big day, a rented tent will make it look picture perfect.
   

2. Wedding Tables
   
   Odds are, you don't have a particular table in mind for your ceremony aside from the shape (unless a member of your family happens to be a carpenter). Therefore, consider renting wedding tables to save money for the food your guests are going to be eating on them. You can also customize them easily with tablecloths, making these rentals work well with any kind of wedding theme or color palette.
   

3. Wedding Linen
   
   Wedding linen rentals are also available if you're looking for table covers with a more upscale appearance. And if you do have table covers in mind already, colored linen can be used for a beautiful overlay effect. It's a great way to provide a pop of color or set a mood without making a long-term investment.
   

4. Wedding Chairs
   
   Whether your wedding ceremony is taking place outdoors with the help of a tent rental or indoors in a grand ballroom, renting chairs for your wedding is a wonderful way to save money. You won't have to worry about the location of your wedding having enough chairs when you've rented them yourself.

5. Wedding Lighting
   
   One rental item that many engaged couples fail to consider using, simply because they aren't aware it's an option, is wedding lighting rentals. Lighting is often what determines the mood of a room. Therefore, it's important to use the right kind of lighting for your wedding theme or location. When you rent, you'll ensure your lighting works with your overall theme and ambiance.
   
   Wedding lighting rentals come in a myriad of styles including string lights for a more romantic style particularly for fairytale or rustic weddings. Commercial drop string lights can work for a more industrial flair to your ceremony. Or consider a curtain light to provide a waterfall effect. Any style of lighting you're looking for, wedding lighting rentals are available for your wedding theme and can help to save you money in the long run.

Weddings can be incredibly expensive depending on the size of the ceremony, the location, the food, and the decor. By renting certain items for their celebration, couples can save money on their wedding ceremony without having to make DIY decor.

You might also enjoy: Your Go-To Color Palettes for 2018!

Tips To Prepare For a June or July Wedding

The most popular month to get married, according to the Knot's Real Weddings Study, is June (15%), followed closely by October (14%). June is often a popular wedding month because it's the month where Spring becomes Summer, which means a wedding is less likely to be rained on as it would be in the Spring while also not being too hot.

However, planning a wedding in June or July doesn't guarantee perfect weather. The weather may be mild but the temperature is still fluctuating, and therefore you should be prepared for rain or a lot of shine. Here are some tips to ensure that your ceremony goes incredibly well regardless of what the weather throws your way.

2. Have both an indoor and outdoor party area
   June and July are great months to have your wedding ceremony hosted outdoors because of the warm weather and flowers. However, because the temperature is beginning to rise, it may be a good idea to have an additional indoor location for your wedding in order to provide your guests with a way to cool down.
   
   If a wedding location has an indoor space but doesn't have much of an outdoor area aside from a yard, consider making a tent rental. A tent rental, such as a backyard party tent, will provide your guests with an outdoor space for relaxing. Additionally, tent rentals will keep them dry in the event of rain while also keeping them cool from the sun.

4. Use fans or central air
   Even June is often considerably warm. Therefore, if your wedding is taking place indoors, be sure that your venues have central air or some other form of air conditioning unit in order to keep both you and your guests cool. If your ceremony and celebration are taking place outside, use fans to keep the air circulating and to keep elderly guests from becoming too hot.

6. Protect your guests from the sun
   June is the month of Summer's beginning, which means the sun is going to be out more. That means your guests' skin is going to be sensitive to burns. Provide your guests with spray-on sunscreen in order to protect them from sunburn and consider using a tent rental to shade them from the harmful rays, which may be more dangerous during the afternoon hours when your wedding is more likely to take place.

8. Serve water
   Everyone loves an open bar, but hydration is important, too. Above all else, the best way to ensure that your guests have a great time even when it's hot is to provide them with plenty of water. Hydration means a lesser likelihood of any fainting guests and also keeps people excited and moving!

Early summer is a wonderful time to have a wedding, but because the weather and temperature may be more unpredictable as the seasons change from Spring to Summer, it's important to be prepared for both rain and shine. Make sure your guests stay cool either with an indoor location or with wedding tents with plenty of wedding chairs for seating, that they are hydrated with water, and that they are shaded from the sun. The more comfortable you and your guests are, the more fun your wedding will be.

Is it cheaper to buy a tent or rent one?

I often get the question, "Could I save money by buying a tent instead of renting it?" There isn't one clear answer to this question, but here are some things to keep in mind as you make that decision:

It's better to rent a tent if:

1. You only use it a few times a year

2. You only use it for a short period of time

3. You're looking for a hassle-free experience

It's sometimes more affordable to buy a tent if:

1. You want to keep it up for a long period of time

2. You use it many times per year

3. You do not need a tent that is in good condition. An older tent is less expensive than a new or nearly new one

However, there are many hidden costs of owning a tent:

1. Labor for installation, removal and transportation

2. Storage of the tent while you're not using it

3. Washing the tent when it gets dirty

4. Repairing the tent

5. Replacing the tent when it wears out

6. Liability for storm damage to the tent

All these things come at no extra cost when you rent a tent. A very large majority of our customers choose to rent a tent. However, there are some special situations when purchasing a tent is the best option. Whether you choose to buy a tent or rent it, contact us today and we'll work with you to find the best tent for your event.

3 Ways to Save Money On Your Wedding Ceremony

Weddings can be incredibly expensive. Although it’s your day to shine as you begin your new life as a married couple rather than as a single individual, it’s also important for you to remain financially responsible. It’s one thing to want your venue to be in a church and another to be in a church on the other side of the world because you happen to enjoy the lighting.

Therefore, here’s a number of ways to help you save on your wedding so you and your bride or groom can begin a new life together with money in your pocket for your honeymoon or new house.

1. DIY projects
   DIY projects are immensely popular right now because of the wave of demand for handmade products. If you can do certain things for your wedding on your own such as making the placards for your guests’ dinner tables (the average number of wedding guests is 136 people according to a 2014 Wedding Study from The Knot) or arranging your own flowers, you can end up saving more money than you would think. Little expenses add up, so even doing something as simple as decorating the pews along the aisles by yourself will save you a good amount of money.

3. Rent a tent, house, or venue
   Party rentals can save you money too. By renting a house or a tent, you can have your ceremony and reception in the same place, saving money and travel expenses not only for yourself but for your guests as well. If your wedding is during the summer months, consider a tent rental. Tent rentals allow your guests to be shaded from the summer sun and provides your bridal party with optimal space for dancing and eating once you and your new husband or wife have said your I-dos.

5. Get married on campus
   Speaking of party rentals, your college campus is a great place to get married. Not only will you save money (most colleges offer their alumni savings on wedding ceremonies when they’re done on campus or in the college chapels), but you’ll also have a beautiful venue. Many colleges are older buildings, which gives you a great backdrop for your wedding photos, and have beautiful landscaping designs in their yards.

It’s understandable to want to spend a lot of money on your wedding ceremony, but saving money doesn’t have to mean sacrifice. You have plenty of wonderful and beautiful options to choose from -- from party rentals such as tents and houses to cute handmade invitations -- as a means of saving money for your wedding. And whatever money you don’t spend on the ceremony, you can spend on specialties abroad on your honeymoon.

Four Tips For the Best Independence Day Wedding

The Fourth of July is a holiday filled with fun, patriotism, and fireworks. So why not schedule your own romantic fireworks on the same day? A Fourth of July wedding can be immensely enjoyable and the warm weather will keep your guests pleasantly entertained outdoors all day (and night) long.

The following tips will help your Fourth of July wedding run smoothly so you and your new spouse won’t have to worry about being anything but Yankee Doodle Dandy.

1. Rent a tent
   While some outdoor event rentals come with their own natural shading, your guests may not enjoy being directly in the sun during the Summer months as they would in the Spring. Many outdoor event rentals also offer tent rentals as a viable option to keep your friends and family shaded and cool without blocking their view of the ceremony. Plus, tents come in two common styles -- frame tents and pole tents -- so you’ll be able to choose the look you want.

2. Have an indoor option
   Outdoor event rentals with a backyard party tent are great, but they’re not for everyone all the time. If your wedding is on the Fourth of July, odds are the Summer heat is in full effect. While it isn’t necessary to rent an additional indoor area for your wedding, it may be good to consider being near an air conditioned area for the elderly guests who may be more sensitive to the heat.

3. Be aware of crowds
   The one downside to having your wedding on the Fourth of July is sharing your special day with crowds of people who aren’t a part of your wedding. Luckily, outdoor event rentals are possible away from more populated areas so you can celebrate your big day on your favorite day without the additional and uninvited crowds.

4. Use fireworks
   Fireworks are one of the best parts of the Fourth of July. Consider incorporating them into your wedding celebration either during the first kiss as a married couple or at the end of the celebration when the sky is dark. It’ll be a fun and traditional way to end the ceremony.

The Fourth of July is a holiday that celebrates the unity of the United States in the fight for Independence. Choosing to celebrate your wedding on the Fourth of July is a terrific way to symbolize your union in marriage. With these tips, not only will you be prepared for the best Independence Day wedding imaginable, but you can be sure to go out with a bang!

Should I Choose Round or Long Tables for my Outdoor Tent Event?

As you're planning an outdoor wedding, party or other event, you may wonder if you should choose round or rectangle tables. Each has its benefits and situations where it works best.

Benefits of rectangle banquet tables:

• They are slightly more space efficient and allow for wider aisles.
• When placed end to end, it's easier to assign seats to guests since it creates a long table with more seats.
• Long rectangle tables are available in farmhouse table style.
• They are excellent for buffet tables.

Benefits of round tables

• They are our most popular table for dining.
• There is more space in the center for food or decorations.
• It allows people sitting at the table to talk to more different people.
• They have a more intimate and less institutional feel.

Or if you'd like the benefits of both, you can mix and match round and rectangle tables for an eclectic look. Contact us today to let us help you plan your outdoor tent event.

Go Green With These Eco Friendly Wedding Day Hacks

Your wedding is a magical day full of celebration and love, but have you ever considered the amount of waste that can come with hosting a big party? Having a large get together means a lot of paper waste, excess food, and unnecessary trash. So if you're an eco-friendly bride, then plan an eco-friendly wedding! But how be environmentally responsible when planning a green wedding? Just utilize these eco-friendly wedding tips for the perfect dream-green wedding day.

Invitations that give back

Seed paper is having a moment right now, so utilize this for both your save the date and invitation! This is paper that can literally be planted. The seed inside creates a beautiful flower of your choice, and you can even go the extra step by giving out pots for your wedding favor to keep the plant theme going. Plus, your guests will remember your wedding every single year when the buds bloom!

A buffet dinner

Not only does a buffet dinner make it easier for the couple planning the wedding, it allows your guests to take exactly the amount of food they want that night. This means less waste all together, but it also makes it easier to compost or donate the leftovers.

Say no to paper

Even if you are planning on using reusable cutlery and plates for dinner, there are still appetizers, dessert, and the bar to think of. Make sure that you ban paper products from being served anywhere, and only use the plates, cups, cloth napkins, and dishes your venue or wedding rentals company provide.

Invest in wedding tent rentals

This is especially true if you are hosting an outdoor event, as wedding tents for rent will ensure the tent will be used multiple times down the road! The decision to buy or rent a tent has many variables, but as a rule of thumb, if the tent will be used less than three times a year, tent rentals are a better option. When you pick your tent, make sure not to forget rental chairs and tables as well. Because of the open layout of these structures, it should be easier to plan a wedding theme that incorporates natural elements.

Choose organic flowers

Unlike what most people think, not all wedding floral arrangements are organic. Choosing organic flowers will ensure they are harvested in a eco-friendly way, and chances are they will come from a local farmer, which will be great for supporting small businesses.

If you use these easy and simple eco-friendly wedding hacks, your event can be environmentally friendly What other tips do you have for throwing an eco-friendly wedding? Let us know what you think on social media.

Celebrate the Season With These Sensational Backyard Spring Soirees

Spring is in full swing, and there's no better way to celebrate the beauty of the season than by throwing a party for your closest friends and family. Of course, hosting an outdoor event of any kind is great for bringing everyone together and creating fond memories. But if you're looking for a few creative ways to use a backyard party tent this spring, we've come up with a few ideas for an unforgettable social gathering. And don't forget: you'll need the perfect tent rentals for your upcoming shindig! Here are just a few themed events you'll definitely want to throw this year:

• An elegant garden tea party
  Throw on your fanciest hat and prepare to drink with your pinkies up! There's no better way to spend a sunny Sunday afternoon than in your backyard garden, enjoying a spot of tea and delicious finger sandwiches. Our perfect tent rentals will ensure your antique china and lace table linens will stay dry and safe, even in unpredictable spring weather. Be sure to decorate your tables with crisp place cards, mismatched teacups, and lots of fresh flowers. And  don't forget the scones and clotted cream! This can be ideal for your monthly ladies-who-lunch event, a birthday, or even a bridal or baby shower.

• A neighborhood potluck picnic
  For a new twist on a traditional neighborhood gathering, why not throw a backyard potluck picnic? Rather than have each family bring their own individual baskets, you can have everyone bring a favorite dish to pass. As host, you can provide some of the essentials, like soda, chips, or other snacks. Your guests can bring an appetizer, main entree, or dessert for everyone to enjoy. They can even share their family recipe on card stock so that these dishes will be loved for years to come. Be sure to decorate your tables with red gingham tablecloths and high-quality plastic or paper plates to make for easy clean-up. Keep in mind you'll need at least 15 square feet per person. That way, you'll have plenty of room but can still mix and mingle with ease. 

Want to make your next event a success? Tents For Rent is here to help. For more information, get in touch with us today.

4 Things Your Wedding Guests Want You to Know

Even though your wedding should be exactly what you and your future spouse would like, it is important to take your guests into consideration. This means thinking of their comfort and happiness throughout the entire event, even if it can get in the way of your plans. So, in order to create the happiest guests possible, here are some common things your wedding guests would like for you to know.

1. Please give us enough space!

It can be all too easy to have a cramped wedding and reception, especially if you are utilizing wedding rentals or are looking into renting a tent and are not familiar with the size and dimensions of specific party rentals. So as a rule of thumb, once you have a rough estimate of your guest count, follow these specifications for the amount of room you'll require.

• Take your number of guests times 15 square feet for seating at tables.
• The number of guests times six square feet for a cocktail area.
• The number of guests times eight square feet for guests seated in chairs.
• The number of guests times two square feet for a dance area.

2. Tell us exactly what you want us to wear!

Demystify the dress code. There are a lot of different definitions for weddings such as black tie, black tie optional, or causal. Make sure to tell your guests exactly what the dress code means, and don't forget to include if it will be an outside wedding or not! 

3. Assigned seats are a headache

Many wedding guests want to mingle by themselves, so take the assigned seating out of the equation. This will not only be easier for them to find a place where they're most comfortable, but you'll have less of a headache while planning. Often, guests dread being stuck for hours at a table with people they don't like or don't find interesting. Clearly, avoiding seating cards make for a relaxing event all around!

4. Snacks are always a great idea

It's no secret that people burn a lot of calories while dancing, so make sure to not forget some snacks at the end of the night to keep people going! Water is also important, as people like to stay hydrated. Weddings are generally long days, and your guests are likely to work up an appetite after dinner is served.

Follow these tips, and you'll have guests that love your wedding just as much as you do!

Looking into renting a tent for your big day? Make sure to call Tents for Rent, we're here to help!

A Month by Month Guide to Planning Your Wedding: Part 2

Considering that the average length of an engagement is 14 months, there is a lot to do in that very short time to get the wedding of your dreams. In one of our previous posts, we started a checklist for brides and grooms-to-be to follow when planning their wedding, so here we finish the countdown!

Five to Four Months Before the Big Day

• Get all the details planned out for your rehearsal dinner. This means deciding who is invited (typically this includes the wedding party and any out of town guests), where it will be, and who will pay. If you don't want to book an expensive venue for this, consider some of our multiple party rentals or even rent a tent for the occasion.

• Choose and order your cake. This means tasting as many pieces of cake as you want!

• Book your makeup and hair stylists. Investing in a trial makeup application and hair styling is always a good idea.

• Finalize your music playlist. 

Three Months Before the Big Day

• Start double-checking on everything you previously ordered. This includes your wedding rentals -- are the linens the right color? What about the chairs? Are the tent rentals the correct size for the number of guests that have RSVP'd? -- the flowers, the catering, your dress, the groom and groomsmen's outfits, and the transportation for the wedding day. Remember, you can never double-check too many times!

• Design the programs. You can even include a menu for the reception if you'd like.

• Go ring shopping! One of the best parts, we know.

Two Months to One Month Before

• Finalize your plans for the photographer. Go to your venue and scout different photograph locations if necessary.
   

• Double check with guests who have not RSVP'd yet.
   

• Apply for your marriage license.
   

• Give your final payments to each vendor so you have nothing to worry about when the big day comes around.
   

• Finish the seating arrangements and make place cards.
   

• Write your vows.

Once you have finished this simple checklist, you will be all set to enjoy your special day! 

In need of some wedding rentals for your nuptials? Tents for Rent is here to help, so call us today.

5 Simple But Effective Ways to Save Money on Your Wedding

Getting married is one of the most exciting moments in anyone's life. But it can also be incredibly expensive and put a damper on brides and grooms who are looking forward to spending their lives together. However, don't fret because here are some incredibly easy ways to save money for your big day.

Cut down on guests
We all know how expensive your guests can be, so simply cut the number down! The Knot's 2014 Real Weddings Study reports that the average number of wedding guests is 136 people, so don't be afraid to have a smaller number than originally expected. This may sound easier said than done, so when thinking about who to invite ask yourself a few questions.

• When was the last time you saw this person?If it was over a year and you live relatively close, consider knocking them off the list.

• If your parents are helping to pay, is this someone they would like there?
  

• if you went out to dinner with this person, would you pay for dinner with them?

Rethink the date and day
Getting married on a Friday or even a Sunday is much cheaper than the traditional Saturday. Plus, if you do an afternoon wedding, your guests will not have to take too much time off work!

Go for party rentals
As tempting as it may be, you don't have to buy everything for your wedding. Instead of dropping a lot of cash, invest in wedding tent rentals, wedding chairs, linens, and even decor such as centerpieces.

Don't be afraid to take your time
Having a longer engagement will mean you can plan ahead and don't have to pay any exorbitant last-minute costs. This gives you more time for research, saving, and more time for your guests to plan! 

Have your reception and ceremony at the same place
This way, everyone will be in the same place and you won't have to worry about getting people from place to place. You can have the guests sit at their tables during the ceremony and when you go to take pictures, they can simply start cocktail hour.

With these ideas in mind, you will be on your way to saving thousands on your wedding, and leaving more money for the honeymoon! 

If you are in the market for wedding tent rentals and other supplies, don't hesitate to call our professionals today. 

Weather The Storm With These 5 Wedding Day Preparedness Tips

While rain on your wedding day is often considered good luck, you might see it as the opposite. The risk of summer storms can make hosting an outdoor event stressful, but this is especially true when wedding bells are involved. Luckily, it is in your control to not let bad weather splash all over your special day. From prepping your guests to adjusting your party rentals, these tips are your stress-free weather preparedness kit. 

1. Remember Your Guests
   If wet weather seems to be in your forecast, be sure to include your wedding guests in your preparation measures. For an outdoor wedding, slip umbrellas or ponchos under their wedding chairs for easy-to-access rain protection. Also, do your best to keep them updated, and encourage them to dress for the weather.
   

2. Have An Alternate Location
   Even though you have been planning your dream outdoor wedding for months, it is wise to have an alternative location in place. If you are set on your original location, simply adjust your party rentals by renting a tent. The interior of the tent can still be decorated with an outdoor aesthetic while protecting the party from potential rain. Keep in mind that these structures come in different styles, including frame tents and pole tents.
   

3. Embrace Your Situation
   Especially during a simple rain shower, embracing the conditions can lead to fun, creative memories. Incorporate umbrellas into your ceremony and wedding photos. Rainy days can be cozy and romantic, so have fun with the whimsy.
   

4. Have An Emergency Preparedness Plan
   If you live in an area that is at risk for severe weather, such as hurricanes and tornadoes, have an emergency plan in place. This could include measures such as evacuation routes and tornado shelters. If the safety of you and your guests could be at risk, don't hesitate to postpone your wedding.
   

5. Work With Your Photographer
   Communicate your weather concerns with your photographer. They will likely have creative ideas to work around the rain, such as using umbrellas as props and finding interesting indoor spaces.

You have planned your special day down to every detail. From the flowers to your vows, you and your partner have worked to make your wedding as unique as you are. As the event draws closer, don't let your wedding dreams get left out in the rain. Being prepared will allow your event to carry on beautifully in the sunshine and in rain.

How to Decide if an Outdoor Wedding is for You

As you're planning your wedding, you may wonder if you should plan an outdoor wedding or keep it indoors.

Reasons you should plan your wedding outdoors:

• You love the outdoors, fresh air, sunshine or stars
• You're planning a country or rustic wedding theme
• You have an outdoor space that is significant to you
• You want your wedding to be relaxed or casual

Reasons to opt for in indoor venue:

• You have a low tolerance for cool or warm weather (although tent heating and cooling are available)
• You aren't willing to adjust plans to work with weather changes

While there are pros and cons of planning an outdoor wedding, we're sure you'll be just as happy with your event as these customers were.

Wedding Venue Highlight - Nissley Vineyards

If you're wedding is coming up and you haven't chosen a venue, be sure to check out Nissley Vineyards. It's a relaxed rural location that is charming and beautiful. It's not far from Harrisburg and Lancaster. Whether you shooting engagement pictures like this couple or you'd like to host your entire wedding onsite, this historic location is sure to please.

Nissley Vineyards is a beautiful location for summer weddings

The rural setting is excellent for a romantic outdoor wedding tent

Weddings at the winery

5 All Season Decor Ideas for Wedding Tent Rentals

Planning your wedding is an exciting time. There is so much to plan, figure out, and decorate! There are so many things to pick from, and this includes tent rentals. Wedding tents are great all year round, as long as they are decorated and planned for properly. So, here are some details to keep in mind when decorating those party rentals for your big day.

1. Add some hanging garlands
Instead of having large centerpieces on each table, consider hanging garlands of ivy all around your tent. You can put some contrasting flowers in them that match your wedding colors, and you can even place the garlands around chandeliers and lighting fixtures.

2. Family style seating
Consider using long, family style tables instead of smaller tables that only hold a few people. Not only will this make everyone mingle and have a good time, you will have more room for dancing!

3. Have a hanging cake
A great way to put your cake on display is to install a hanging table somewhere in your tent. Without even trying, this will make your cake stand out while giving your guests ample room to gather around for the cake cutting ceremony.

4. Incorporate geometric metal
Metal offers a nice juxtaposition with hanging greenery. Think brushed silver or bronze chairs, cutlery, and tables for a really interesting vibe that will look great against a lush background of flowers.

5. Drape fabric
Flowers aren't really your style? No worries-- go for draped fabric at different heights all around your tent. It will create an airy, pleasant vibe for any outdoor reception. You can even put fairy lights on display for extra lighting during the night.

In order to make sure these decorating tips work, it is crucial to invest in the right size tent rentals. 

Need some decorating ideas for your big day? Contact our professionals today and we'll help you get started.

A Month By Month Guide to Planning Your Wedding: Part 1

So you are recently engaged, and it is time to plan your big day! This is such an exciting time, but it can be incredibly overwhelming if you are not properly organized. According to the Knot's 2014 Real Weddings Study, the average length of an engagement is 14 months This gives the couple a little bit more than a year to plan their wedding, which may seem like an ample amount of time, but this goes by very fast! To prevent you from missing important details during this time here is a comprehensive wedding planning guide that will help your day go smoothly.

14 months to nine months before the big day:
1. Keep a wedding notebook and binder so you can put all of your inspiration in one, easy to find place.

2. Establish a budget and stick to it. You will want to make a budget as soon as possible so you don't fall in love with expensive details down the road.

3. Start the guest list. While this doesn't have to be complete, you should at least be able to establish a good idea of how many people you want there.

4. Choose your bridal party. Ask your bridesmaids as soon as you are engaged, so you will have more hands on deck for the planning process!

5. Pick your date.

6. Determine if you want an inside or outside reception -- decide if you need to rent a tent, and figure out if you can afford everything that comes with it including wedding linen rentals, special wedding chairs, and all the centerpieces are in your budget.

7. Have an engagement party. If anything, this would be a great place to get ideas and inspiration.

Eight to six months before the big day:
1. Hire the photographer and videographer.

2. Buy your wedding dress -- we know, the most exciting part!

3. Start planning the honeymoon to find the best prices.

4. Send out save the date cards.

5. Choose your florist and all the floral arrangements.

6. Decide on your color scheme for the big day, including everything and anything concerning your tent rentals.

7. Go over details with your officiant.

From wedding linen rentals to bridesmaid dresses, there is so much to plan for a wedding. Keep your eyes out for the continuation of our list in the next few weeks!

Secrets Your Wedding Planner Wants You to Know : Part 2

In our last piece, we shared some tips and tricks that wedding planners wished couples knew before their big day. So before you sign on the dotted line, read this list!

Don't expect a Pinterest-perfect wedding
Pinterest is a great place to get ideas for your wedding and to connect with other brides, but do not expect everything to come out exactly as it looks on the site. There are a lot of hidden factors that go into those pictures (hint: Photoshop), and while your wedding planner will try their best, it might not look exactly the way you imagined. Instead, it is a good idea to go over a theme and a vision with your wedding planner so they can create a custom look for you.

Doing business with friends isn't always the best idea
It isn't a good idea to mix your friendship and your wedding. After all, if something doesn't go the way you'd like, you will have that mistake looming over your entire friendship. Even if your best friend is an amazing chef, that doesn't mean they should cater the wedding. Rather, take the advice of your wedding planner and use one of their professional recommendations.

Rent instead of buy
The number one trick to cutting wedding costs is utilizing wedding rentals effectively. There are plenty of variables you must think about with party rentals, from wedding tent rentals to finding linens that match your centerpieces. Always rent a tent instead of buying one, as you'll only be using it a few times a year. Same goes with wedding chairs, tables, drink ware, and even centerpieces. To save even more money, make sure you get all of these wedding essentials from the same vendor.

Plan extra time to eat and get ready
Brides and grooms often forget to leave enough time to get ready or to eat. Make sure you schedule in about an hour extra for hair and makeup. Also, don't forget to plan a time and place for snacks for the wedding party so no one gets hangry during pictures.

Keep the phone away
You'll have the rest of your life to relive your wedding day, so you need to be 100% in the moment during the day at all times! Take a step back and look at everyone around you celebrating your love, and then leave the selfies and social media updates for another time. Remember: it's your photographer's job to make you look absolutely perfect; it's your job to have the time of your life.

Need help planning your wedding? Rent a tent with us, your Pennsylvania party rental professionals!

Secrets Your Wedding Planner Wants You to Know ; Part 1

Planning your wedding can be stressful, from picking out the colors of wedding chairs to corralling your bridesmaids all into one place at one same time. This is where a wedding planner can come in. A professional wedding planner will be able to handle all the details you don't want to deal with, as who wants to choose party rentals or hire a bartender or remember to coordinate centerpieces when you have a wedding dress to pick out?

But, there are some things a wedding planner won't tell you. Here we've compiled a list so nothing gets forgotten on your big day.

Don't forget the tax
It is important to remember that the prices listed on your catering or bar menu aren't the end prices. There is always tax, service charges, and potential transportation fees that have to be considered, so do not be surprised when your end bill is higher than expected.

Your flowers will cost you a pretty penny
Chances are, the flowers you are looking to purchase aren't grown locally. They most likely have to be flown in from an international destination which can hike their prices up even more. Plus, the extra cost of vases and bouquet assembly isn't always included.

Outdoor events are always, always risky
If you have your heart set on an outdoor event, make sure to rent a tent or at least have one on reserve. Everyone will remember the gorgeous outdoor atmosphere you have created with a wedding tent, and you'll have shelter in case rain decides to try and ruin your day.

Don't forget seating
Never cut corners when it comes to seating. You don't want your guests to feel as if they are packed into your tent like sardines, so it is important you get the right sized wedding chairs and leave ample space. For perspective, if cathedral type seating is being used, allow about eight square feet per person in your tent rental.

Use your initials instead
As tempting as it may be to engrave everything with the words bride and groom, it makes better sense to use your initials or your new last name instead. This way you can reuse these pieces and they won't be collecting dust in your china cabinet.

Keep your eyes peeled for more secrets!

Big, Beautiful 2017 Wedding Trends to Keep an Eye Out For

2017 is here, and it is time to say goodbye to boho brides, mismatched bridesmaids, and mason jars as far as the eye can see. Instead, it is time for a whole new lineup of wedding trends in 2017. Read on to learn more about the most popular wedding trends of the new year.

Color, color everywhere
For the past couple of years, muted and neutral color palettes were all the rage. But in 2017, brides will be splashing their weddings and receptions with color everywhere and anywhere. It won't be just one color, either. Rather, there will be a whole abundance of color from different shades of the main theme, accompanied by lighting fixtures, bountiful centerpieces, and wedding linen rentals in more shades than just white.

Destination weddings
Even though The Knot reports that the average number of wedding guests is around 136 people, this number may be drastically lower for those that want a wedding away. In fact, limiting the guest list is a popular reason to choose a destination wedding in the first place. Not only are tropical escapes still a popular choice to get married, more wedding planners are helping their clients tie the knot in exotic destinations such as Iceland and Italy.

Virtual planning
Now that more Millennials are getting married, virtual wedding planners are all the rage. This includes wedding planning apps that give brides and grooms satisfaction at the touch of a button.

Renting
Speaking of Millennials, weddings are becoming all about saving money, which is why wedding rentals are such a big deal nowadays. Instead of purchasing expensive decor, more couples are relying on affordable wedding rentals such as wedding chairs, chic tent rentals, centerpieces, and linens.

Look up
A guest at a 2017 wedding will be looking up, up, and away at the weddings. A huge trend coming up in the new year are centerpieces coming down from the ceiling and floral arrangements scaling the walls and top of the wedding tents. This vertical impact will certainly pack a punch.

Never ending food
The days of a sit down dinner are over; instead, prepare your guests for a never ending feast of food. We're talking cocktail appetizers, hors d'oeuvres, buffet dinners, late night savory snacks, and dessert feasts fit for a king (and queen).

With these up and coming 2017 wedding trends in mind, your wedding is sure to be one for the history books Pinterest boards!

3 Trends to Try For Winter Weddings

Despite the fact that June continues to be the most popular month to get married, more couples are opting for winter weddings. Although this season may have its difficulties, it can also be the most magical and picturesque time to tie the knot. And while you may not want to rent a tent for a wedding in the wintertime, you aren't limited in your celebrations. Here are three trends that will make any winter wedding the talk of the season.

• Be natural
  Just because outdoor events aren't practical doesn't mean you can't use what's outside. One of the best parts of any wedding is being able to incorporate seasonal elements into decorations and themes. Flowers may not be in bloom, but that doesn't mean you have to count out the outdoors. Bring the best parts of natural winter beauty indoors! You can use berries and vegetation in your bouquets and flower arrangements. Utilize branches or pine cones to decorate your wedding tables. You can even create garlands or table runners from what you find outside. Ditch the flower crown for one made out of pine switches and leaves.

• Sparkle and shine
  More than any time of year, winter is ideal for using sparkle and shine. One way to do this is by adding a little shimmer to your wedding tables. Opt for sequined overlays on top of your wedding linen rentals. Make sure your wedding dress has some sparkle in the form of a belt, a bolero, or in your jewelry or shoes. Fake snow or silver confetti can make for a beautiful entrance. Dress your bridesmaids in rich jewel tones. Hang twinkly string lights and light candles to create a winter wonderland.

• Add warmth
  It's the winter, so create a welcome escape for your guests. Hot chocolate bars have become increasingly popular in recent years. They're a great supplement to traditional coffee and tea, or could be used in conjunction with a dessert bar. If you want to serve a sit-down meal, remember that you should allow at least 15 square feet per person. If your guests want to cozy up closer, they can! Serve items like comforting soups, flaky pastries, and seasonal produce. Don't forget to warm yourself and your bridal party up, too. You might want to wear a unique long-sleeved wedding dress and velvet shoes or provide fetching faux furs, especially when it's time to take the wedding photos. By adding warm elements, you'll be long-remembered for hosting a fun and relaxing event during a chilly season.

Want to find out more about how we can help make your winter wedding a success? Our rentals for wedding tables, table linens, chairs, and carpets can set your event apart for all the right reasons. Contact us today to learn more!