Top 4 tent styles that work best for different types of events

It’s easy to be confused by the different types of tents: frame tents, clearspan tents, pole tents, sailcloth tents. Which one do I need? What’s the difference and why does it matter? Let me break it down for you.

Frame tents have an aluminum skeleton that makes the tent rigid. They offer some unique advantages over pole tents. Sometimes, tents must be secured with weights instead of driving stakes into the ground. In locations where a driveway cannot be penetrated or where underground utilities make it unsafe to drive stakes, a frame tent with weights is the perfect solution. Frame tents are much more flexible in the ways that they can be secured. They can be installed on a deck, patio or even the rooftop of a building. Frame tents have other advantages as well. They have no interior poles. This is great for construction projects where machinery must work inside the tent or events where poles would obstruct the flow of people.

Clearspan tents also have an aluminum structure and have all the benefits of a frame tent. However, clearspans can be much larger than a frame tent (over 100’ wide). The tent fabric slides in tracks on the aluminum beams, making them very tight. They are excellent for winter use or long-term installations. Clearspan tents also work well as weather protection for a stage at a graduation ceremony or other outdoor event with a large audience. Lighting and speakers can be hung from the aluminum beams of the tent. The front of the stage can be completely unobstructed by tent poles. Clearspans can be  raised to a taller height to cover a stage or to allow machinery to enter the tent. Some people prefer the more modern, "Euro" appearance of a clearspan tent.

Pole tents, also known as tension structures, are an evolution of the earliest type of tents.  The forerunners to our modern pole tents were the big top circus tents of the past. They have tall, graceful peaks and airy spacious interiors. Their structure comes from the fabric itself. Thus, they can be installed quickly with no need for beams to support them. Many of today's pole tents are engineered to withstand up to 70 mph sustained winds and 90 mph gusts. Pole tents are the most economical type of tent that we offer. They are great for weddings, backyard parties and other events of all kinds. Many people prefer this style over the more traditional square frame or clearspan tent appearance. They can be installed on nearly any surface where stakes can be driven into the ground. They are our most popular type of tent.

Sailcloth tents are a type of pole tent that is very popular for weddings. They have the tall graceful peaks of a pole tent with a few extras to make them special. Inspired by sails on sailboats, they’re light and airy. They allow lots of natural light to flood the tent and they glow with light at night. Their whimsical rounded shape creates a great canvas for all types of decoration. Their elegant minimalist design lets you enjoy the great outdoors while providing walls to protect you in case of rain. White pennant flags waving from the peaks add to the charm.

Still not sure which type of tent you'll need? Our customer reps will be happy to help you find the best solution for your event. Whatever type of tent you choose, rest assured that Tents For Rent will provide you with a quality tent and excellent service to make your event successful.

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717.733.9700

Should I close the tent walls? Video

Today we’ll be talking about tent sidewalls. During the tent installation, one of the questions we’ll ask is whether you’d like us to enclose the tent walls or leave them open.

Here are my recommendations. If the weather is warm, keeping most of the walls open is the best idea. It will allow more airflow to keep the guests cooler.  If rain is in the forecast, it’s a good idea to close only the side that the wind will be coming from. Even if cool or rainy weather is in the forecast, I recommend leaving at least one side of the tent open. The reason for this is that a tent that is totally enclosed can become very damp. Condensation can form on the tent and it can actually rain inside the tent. Of course, if it’s very cold or there are heaters in the tent, it’s best to enclose everything except the entrance

Even if you decide to leave some of the tent sides open, we can leave the extra walls onsite to close later if necessary. Below is a video with instructions on closing the walls. We hope you enjoy your outdoor celebration.

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How To Create The Perfect Valentine's Escape In Your Own Backyard

Valentine's Day is right around the corner and prepping the perfect romantic escape is simpler than you think. Instead of taking your date out to dinner for the third year in a row, you both deserve to experience a special night for just the two of you. Here's how to make this holiday a night to remember by planning a unique date in your own backyard.

Rent a tent

Party tent rentals are the perfect tool to create a new space in your own backyard. Not only will your rental tent protect you from the elements, but they create an entirely new space for the two of you to enjoy.

Keep in mind that there are two types of party tent rentals to choose from: frame tents and pole tents. They also come in a number of different sizes. If you plan on a variety of activities, be sure your tent rental can accommodate the amount of space you need. For example, if you're planning a romantic picnic, choosing a smaller option will support a cozy atmosphere. Regardless, both of your tent options will look great with the right decorations.

Decorate with intent

Tent renting assures that you have the privacy you desire and the room you need to host the outdoor event of your dreams. Don't hesitate to lay down a beautiful rug or blanket to rest upon and line the tent with gorgeous decorations including string lights, memorable photos, and fragrant flowers. For the food, indulge in a table and chair rental to stage your romantic display of roses, chocolates, and sparkling wine. This will create an entirely cozy, romantic ambiance complete with your favorite memories.

Depending on the activities you're planning for the evening, you might need a number of tables and chairs to make it happen. Try splicing your tent into different areas for food, cuddling, and games to stay in the tent all night long.

Plan a fun event for the evening

Now that you have the romantic space set up, you need a couple fun activities to spice up the date. If the two of you love board games, set up a stack of your favorite options to choose from. This can create a fun, competitive edge if you love the feeling of adrenaline. If you prefer to cozy up and watch a movie, you can rent a projector, lean back in some pillows, and watch the scene play out on the side of your tent rental like a makeshift drive-in movie. The options are endless when you choose a tent rental for your special event.

Whatever you choose, be sure that it's a date your loved one will adore. Valentine's Day is all about pampering your partner and crafting a fun outdoor space for the two of you to enjoy will ensure it's an evening to remember.

When you need the best tent rentals in PA, rely on Tents For Rent today!

Weddings 101: Tips To Organize The Layout Of Your Outdoor Wedding

Organizing an outdoor wedding can seem nearly impossible. While an indoor venue offers limitations and restrictions on decor and dining, an outdoor space can seem like a challenge to fill.

When you want to make the most of your outdoor wedding event, rely on these organizational tips for a smooth -- and beautiful -- wedding layout.

Start with the stage

Your dance floor and stage should be the focal point of your reception. Once you have these spaces mapped out, all other tables, including dining tables and banquet tables, should be stationed at strategic areas around it.

Keep in mind that your rectangular tent rental will also help create limits on your space. This will encourage you to station the stage in the center of the tent or along one of the longer walls offered by the space. If you include your stage at one end of the rectangle, your guests will have trouble hearing you, even if you rented a set of speakers. You should also keep in mind that aisles and speaker areas should accommodate eight square feet of space per person.

Set up your tables

Your wedding tables are the second-most important part of your reception layout. This is where your guests will spend the majority of their time if they're not tearing it up on the dance floor. If you opt for a rectangular wedding tent for your outdoor event, consider stationing banquet tables along the exterior of the tent. This will ensure your guests have plenty of room to mix and mingle while providing a clear sightline from one end of your rental tent to the other. No one wants to sit at their wedding table and come eye to eye with another guests' rear as they enjoy the buffet.

You should also arrange the wedding tables in a U-shape around the dance floor with close family members located closer to the newlyweds. This will ensure no guest has a "bad" seat since they can all see the couple at the head of the event.

Consider cocktail hour

An oft-overlooked aspect to your wedding reception is the cocktail hour. This transition period is essential to make guests feel welcome between the ceremony and dinner. Consider stationing a few well-positioned cocktail tables near the bar to better organize standing spaces. Keep in mind that there should be five to six square feet per person when you set up these tables. Guests will want to set their drinks down as they talk or nibble on a few snacks before dinner.

When you want to throw an outdoor wedding, consider a backyard party tent for the occasion. With Tents For Rent, we offer the best in party tent rentals, wedding tables, and wedding chairs to make your special day even better.

Taking The Party Outside: 5 Different Possibilities For Your Next Outdoor Office Party

Holiday office parties make up the overwhelming majority of large corporate events for workplaces across the country. However, these events are usually in the dead of winter and take place in a stuffy indoor setting. Surprise your employees by throwing an outdoor party in the warmer months. After booking a party tent rental, you can throw any of these entertaining outdoor office parties.

• Sports Day: Involving your employees in fun outdoor activities is a great way to change up the usual party dynamic and foster friendly competition. Your sports day could be anything from a company kickball tournament to a relaxed day of fun picnic games. Activities such as bocce ball matches, water balloon tosses, and wheelbarrow races are a good way to include everyone in the fun as they don't require athletic prowess. To make the day more than just a sports free-for-all, rent a tent and set up a sitting area with snacks and drinks.

• Scavenger Hunt: As an engaging team bonding activity, scavenger hunts give employees the opportunity to delve into the outdoors while working towards a common goal. There are endless possibilities for organizing a company scavenger hunt, ranging from seeking simple objects to taking photographs at designated locations.

• Grilling Party: For employees who love an event centered on food, an outdoor grilling party is the perfect solution. You could hold the party at a local park or set up party tent rentals in an employee's backyard. Keep in mind that there are two main styles of tents, frame tents and pole tents, and one may be better suited for an employee's yard space.

• Community Service Project: The best parties are often the ones that make a difference in the lives of others or in the community. Rather than hosting a party focused only on the company, combine a summer party with the opportunity to serve the community. Whether it is cleaning up a park or holding a car wash to raise money for a charity, you can easily get your employees on board with dedicating a few hours to others. Be sure to have a party tent rental and plenty of snacks available for your hard-working volunteers.

• Hire Entertainment: Shake up the office party routine by hiring entertainment your employees would not usually see. This entertainment could be a magician, a local band, a face painter, or anything else that you think would entertain your employees. Depending on the entertainment you bring in, you can set a fun theme for the party to make it even more memorable.

To throw an office party that is different from every one you've thrown before, all you need to do is get creative. Consider what activities might pique the interest of your employees, and run with that idea to throw an incredible office party.

Your Guide To Renting A Heater For Your Tent

The advent of outdoor tent rental services and portable heaters have made it possible to throw outdoor weddings, parties, graduations, and community events at any time of year. When looking into renting a heater for your event, you'll likely have a few questions about the process and the logistics. Get all of the answers to your questions and rent your heater with ease and expertise.

How Does The Heater Work?

When you get a tent heating unit through rental services, you aren't just getting a space heater that you can plug into a nearby outlet. Tent heaters are typically connected to large propane tanks, which give them the power they need to effectively heat larger spaces. The unit does require electrical power as well, so you'll need an outlet nearby to plug it into.

While it may sound like they are easy enough to install yourself, you'll want the tent rental company to properly install it for you if they offer that service. They usually place the heaters outside of the tent with a vent that sits under the tent's sidewall, and you want that to be properly situated.

What Size Heater Should I Rent?

The answer to this question is dependent on a number of other factors and there won't be a definitive answer to it every time. It is always helpful to simply ask the provider of your tent rental services what size heater they recommend. The information they'll likely need to know is the size of the tent you're renting. The tent size usually depends on the number of guests coming, the average number of which for a wedding is 136 people, according to the Knot's 2014 Real Weddings Study.

The rental company will likely also ask at what temperature you plan to set your thermostat. This number will tell them what kind of power you need from your heater. Your rental company may also want to know how long the event will last, indicating how long you plan to run the units, and the number of power outlets you'll be able to access.

Heating your rental tent is a completely feasible task when you know the parameters of what you're trying to heat. Host an event this winter without any worries about keeping your guests warm and cozy.

How To Have A Romantic Winter Wedding

Just because it's winter doesn't mean you have to put off your wedding til the warmer seasons. Winter weddings can be incredibly romantic, between the snow, the holidays, and all the cozy decor options. If you're planning on a winter wedding for you and your significant other, here are a few essentials you need to make sure you have to keep your wedding warm, cozy, and inviting despite the weather.

Tent Rentals

Party tent rentals are important for any sort of event in less than ideal weather, but they're absolutely essential for weddings. If you want to have your ceremony out in the beautiful winter landscape, that's one thing; however, you can't realistically expect your guests to enjoy a reception out in the cold. Having tent rented for your wedding can help ensure that no matter what weather you end up having for your wedding, your guests are warm and comfortable. Just make sure you rent a tent large enough. Take your number of guests times:

• 15 square feet for seating at tables

• 6 square feet for standing area or cocktail area

• 8 square feet for a wedding ceremony or guests seated at only chairs

• an additional 2 to 3 square feet for a dance area

• and 25 square feet for the head table.

Winter Decor

For a winter wedding, there are plenty of decor options available to make your big day one to remember. Try leaning into the themes of the holiday for some interesting decor options; use pine trees, red and green, and other Christmas themed decorations to give your wedding a festive feel.

If you want to stay away from the holidays for your wedding theme, winter still lends itself to plenty of interesting color palettes; feel free to make use of elegant metallics, royal blues, and pure whites to match the weather outside. When choosing out linens for your wedding, opt for heavier fabrics as well. This will help the space feel cozier and warmer, in contrast with the cold outside.

Looking for party tent rentals and other big event essentials? Contact Tents for Rent today to see what options are available for your big day, whether you're in need of wedding tents, linen rentals, chairs and tables, and much more.

5 Creative Runner Ideas For Your Wedding Tables

At your wedding, your guests will spend a bit of time at their tables. You'll want to make sure they are perfectly decorated and comfortable so that your guests can enjoy themselves while they dine. Make sure to space them properly and that your tent is large enough for them. Typically you'll need at least 12 square feet per person if you're using round tables and 10 square feet per person with rectangular ones. Once you have the comfortable spacing down, you can turn your attention to the fun part. Choose a table runner idea for your wedding tables that perfectly reflects your wedding's themes and your reception will come together perfectly.

1. Moss Runners: These will look like traditional runners made of cloth, but a closer inspection will reveal a bit of a twist. By using long strips of moss, you can easily incorporate a natural element into your reception decor. Complement the runner with other natural elements like driftwood or terrariums, or add candles and arrangements of flowers for interesting level changes.
   

2. Green Garland: If you want the next level up of natural wonder from moss, use leafy green garland as the runners on your wedding tables. Lush greenery will add a wonderfully environmental touch to your reception and it is very easy to pop in vibrant florals throughout the garland. Better yet, using garland down the centers of your tables will serve as runners and centerpieces all at once.
   

3. Funky Patterns: When a natural look isn't your style, opt for eye-catching patterns on runners. There are endless possibilities for patterns and color choices on runners and you can easily coordinate them with the rest of the reception decor. Any unique prints are sure to wow your guests and make them smile.
   

4. Big Blooms: Do you want your table runners to be big and bold? Make them out of the largest floral blooms you can find. With this floral-only garland, you can make a big statement on each table while coordinating the colors with the rest of the decor. With these runners, you won't even need to think about centerpieces.
   

5. Votive Candles: A wedding classic, you can use votive candles as the elegant focus of your runners. Have them zig-zag down the table or line them up like two rows of neat soldiers for an organized look. Pair them with flat sequin runners or floral centerpieces and you'll achieve a truly classy look for your wedding tables.

Your reception should be perfectly decorated in every aspect, and from the wedding tent rentals, to the wedding linen rentals, and to the table rentals. Make sure that they're ready to host your guests by designing creative and unique runners.

How To Winterize Your Party Tent Rental

The winter aesthetics of blankets of white snow, green pine trees, and vibrant pops of colors make any wedding photos gorgeous, but the practicalities of getting it all together can be a bit difficult. When you're holding your wedding, or any event, in a party tent rental during the colder months, you're going to have to make some preparations so that your guests are warm and cozy. Follow these tips for holding a successful event in a tent during the chilliest months.

Invest In Heaters

No matter what the weather decides to do on the big day, you want to be sure that your guests are sufficiently warm. Most tent rental companies offer heaters specialized for tent use. They also offer various sizes that fit well with different rental tent sizes. Consult with the experts to find the right heater for your tent, and when in doubt get one that's larger than you think. When temperatures are in the teens and snow is falling, you can't have too much heat.

Add Fans

To make sure that the warm air reaches every nook and cranny of your party tent rental, have some fans on pedestals throughout the tent. You'll want to be sure that they're set far enough away from where guests will be sitting, otherwise they'll be getting air blown on them throughout the event and that could be uncomfortable. However you situate them, the fans will serve a useful purpose in pushing the warm air sitting at the top of the tent to the bottom.

Keep Shovels And Ice Handy

If the forecast calls for snow, be sure to have the proper materials ready. You'll want shovels to clear any paths into and out of the tent and ice melt to get rid of any slipping hazards. While Knot's 2014 Real Weddings Study reported that the second most popular month to get married was October and snow doesn't typically happen that early, it can fall at any time. Be prepared for any possibility of snow and ice so that you don't get trapped in your event tent while you wait for help.

With the right cold weather equipment, you can have an outdoor party at any time of the year. Just be prepared for anything Mother Nature throws your way and you're sure to have a wonderful event.

Questions To Ask Yourself When Renting A Party Tent

Tent rentals come in all shapes and sizes, and whether you're renting a tent for a wedding, party, or community event you'll have a lot of options. To determine the exact type of rental tent you need, ask yourself these important questions.

How Many Guests Are Attending?

When you're renting a party tent from a professional company, most will be able to determine the tent size you need based on the number of people that will have to fit inside the tent. You can also calculate the tent size based on your guest list. Generally, you need 100 square feet for every eight guests when you're using round tables. With long tables, your tent will need 80 square feet for every eight guests. For an average wedding with 136 people, a tent of 13,600 square feet would be needed for the reception.

What Kind Of Seating Will You Need?

The different areas that you may want for your event also impact the size of the tent. You may need a separate table at the front of the room, a buffet area, a stage, and a dance floor. To divide these areas, you'll want to account for extra room. For example, you'll want a buffer of space between seating and the buffet table or stage area for the guests' comfort. To be safe, always round up your estimations so that everyone will have plenty of room to sit and move around comfortably.

Do You Want Any Special Features?

All rental tents are not just plain white canopy tents anymore. Make sure you take a look through the different tents the rental company offers and identify any features you think will make the event special. Many companies offer colored tents, tents with sides that can protect the inside of the tent from wind and rain, and clear-top tops that allow you to see the sky above.

What Kind Of Lighting Will You Need?

If your event is going into the hours after sunset, you're going to need to consider lighting. Many rental companies offer lighting options with their tent rentals, so be sure to check that feature before you provide a solution of your own. String lights are always a great, warm look for events under a tent and are easy to hang off of the tent's frames and around its poles.

Will You Need Temperature Control?

Unless you're having your events in the few months when the temperature is absolutely perfect, you may want to do some thinking on this. For the warmer months, consider renting portable air conditioners that can cool off the inside of a walled tent. In the colder months, you may want to rent a few portable heaters to get your guests nice and toasty. Many rental companies offer these units when you're renting a party tent, so be sure to check for those options.

For any event, location is everything. When a tent is the location, you want to make sure that it is perfect and comfortable for everyone. As you go through the process of renting a party tent, be sure to take these questions into consideration in order to pick the right tent. 

A Warm Reception: 3 Stylish Ways To Decorate Your Wedding Tent

Hosting your wedding reception in a tent rental is not only cost-effective, but it creates an intimate, customizable venue for you and your guests. You can easily decorate your tent to accentuate your wedding's theme or overall style with these simple details.
 

What Is Your Tent's Form?

Wedding tents come in two basic styles. The first style is a frame tent, shaped like an uppercase "A" so that there is one continual high point down the center of the tent. This style offers the option of clearspan tents, which has a see-through top that allows you to have an open-air feel with protection. The second style is a pole tent, which is held up by several poles down the middle, creating many peaks in your tent. The tent's form will determine how you decorate it, so once you've decided on that you can get down to the details.
 

Rustic Chic

With your reception already set outdoors, incorporating a rustic theme that relies on natural elements is a beautiful strategy. Choose from a variety of frame wedding tents, and string green garlands parallel to the sloping roof on each side. You can also add green or floral garlands to the poles, lighting fixtures, and wherever else your tent needs some color. Pair this natural greenery with wooden, rustic wedding tables and chairs and colorful peony centerpieces. Add string lights along the ceiling to compliment the garland for an easy, rustic look.
 

Bright And Playful

If you're looking to add color to your tent design, you have quite a few options. Rent a pole tent, and decorate with boldly colored paper lanterns that hang just below the tent's ceiling. The lanterns can be a variety of sizes and colors, and in a pole tent they'll form to the tent's many peaks, creating a dimensional look. You can also incorporate color with whimsical bunting, a creative craft that is very easy to do yourself. When you pick out your wedding chairs, you can wrap them in colorful ribbon or add colorful chair cushions to each one.
 

Elegant Glamour

It is more than possible to have your reception in a rental tent and still create an elegant design. Add mini string lights on the ceiling of the tent for simple and chic lighting. Use sequined tablecloths for your wedding linen rentals to add just a touch of shimmer to your design. If you're not a fan of the sparkle, choose a simple color design with neutrals or pastels, or even go all-white, for your linens, flowers, and chairs. This style pairs well with a clearspan frame tent, which will allow you to see a gorgeous sunset and the night's stars through its transparent ceiling.

Have fun with your tent design and let your imagination run wild. Remember that wedding tents can easily be tailored to your personal design tastes, and as long as you decorate it according to your vision, your guests will feel the love too. 

3 Benefits of Going Through a Tent Rental Company

Going through a rental service for your outdoor event can be a great idea, particularly if you aren't looking to buy everything outright. A tent rental service can provide numerous products, such as rental tents, linens, tables, chairs, and much more. Some people are hesitant about using a tent rental company for the entirety of their services but there are a few compelling reasons as to why you should. 

 

Less Expensive

Throwing a lavish party or wedding can get expensive, especially if you're buying everything you need. Even smaller parties can end up costing much more than you initially anticipated. Consider this: you're hosting a party with 50 people in attendance. You found inexpensive $3 plates and $2 glassware. Without factoring in everything else such as food, seating, and everything else, you're already at $250 just for plates and glassware. Then when the party is all said and done, you're stuck with the leftovers. A rental company can help you keep the overall costs of your party low and manageable, even if they don't provide things like silverware. 

 

Environmentally Friendly

What happens when you rush to plan your party and you end up getting a surplus of disposable items such as flatware, plates, and linens? The answer is they all get thrown away after they're used, which is extremely harmful to the environment. Instead of buying these items outright and having to dispose of them after, renting them from a rental company can help ensure that the Planet doesn't suffer and your party is the talk of the town. 

 

Reduced Stress

Even party planners who plan and execute parties for a living get stressed out. So naturally, you might find coordinating an entire party to be extremely stressful. Luckily, when you use a tent rental company, much of that stress is subtracted from the equation. They come and set up and tear down the tent, provide you with all of the extras you may need, and can even be an invaluable resource for your inquiries. 




However, if you're planning on hosting multiple parties each year, then you might benefit from buying something like a tent. If you plan on using a tent three to four times annually, it is probably a better idea to rent one. Unless you own a venue though, you most likely won't buy one outright. Going through a tent rental service can be the best way to host any party. 


If you're in need of a reputable tent rental company in the Philadelphia area, give us a call today.

3 Tips for Your Wedding Linens

Your big day is coming up fast and you still have a little bit more planning to do. You've secured a tent rental, wedding chairs, decorations, a DJ, lighting rentals, and just about everything else you need to make your special day that much more special. Yet, you missed one pretty important thing: linens. 


Linens can truly bring everything together and help accent your wedding the way that you want. However, understanding what wedding linen rentals to choose and how to use them can be confusing, so here are a few tips to help you out. 

 

Figure out what you need

If your chairs and tables have been provided by a rental company, you're going to want to figure out which type of linens you'll need. In other words, find out how long the tables are, the number of guests that will be attending, and if you'll need to provide linens for other tables such as the bar or dessert table. However, if the company you're working with also provides wedding linen rentals then the majority of this will be accounted for. 

 

Consider your theme

You might have a themed wedding or you might not but you most definitely have a color scheme. It's important to think about how much of your preferred colors you'd like to have accented about your venue as well as shades. Too much of one color might make the room feel overwhelmingly monochromatic, while too little will lose what you're trying to accomplish. 

 

Don't get too informal

Some brides want to have a relaxed and informal wedding and while that's all well and good, there are some things that you will want to keep formal. You should have table linens that touch the floor for a well-rounded and wedding feel and you won't sacrifice informality. Adding some napkin linens can also be a great way to give your wedding a wonderful presentation. 




According to the Knot's 2014 Real Wedding Study, June was the most popular month to get married with 15% of marriages while October was second with 14%. The time of year that you get married may also factor into your linen decision, so be sure to factor that in as well. Linens may not have been at the top of your priority list but they are definitely a key element of any wedding.


For wedding linen rentals, wedding tents, and more, give us a call today. 

4 Rainy Day Tips for Your Outdoor Event

When you host an event outdoors, there are certain risks that you open yourself up to. Weather tends to be the most notorious hazard of planning an outdoor event and many people aren't exactly sure what to do when the weather turns for the worse.

Commonly, people are so focused on renting a party tent and booking vendors that they forget about a plan for poor weather. To avoid any wet guests here are some basic weather tips for your outdoor event.

Bring covers, lots of them

Undoubtedly, you have numerous things underneath your event tent that wouldn't handle being wet all too well (including the bride if you're at a wedding). Audio equipment, lighting equipment, exposed food, cooking stations, and just about anything and everything else can all be compromised if they got wet. Therefore, it's always a good idea to bring plastic covers that can be thrown over these items in a hurry to avoid any damages.

Opt for sidewalls

Whether it's wedding tents or party tents, you should always plan to enclose the tent walls as needed. Most of our tents rentals include free white walls or window or clear walls for an additional cost. It can be money well spent should the weather betray your event. The sidewalls can be easily attached or removed as needed. If the weather stays nice, you can still have an outdoor event without having to ever see tent siding.

Be sure to have an evacuation route

This may sound a little extreme, but nobody wants to be underneath a tent during a high-wind storm or when there's lighting crashing down around you. Even if the forecast is for sunny skies, you should still have an evacuation route planned in the event of serious weather. Make sure everyone is aware of the plan by telling employees, friends, family, or helping hands so they can help escort guests. The average wedding has 136 guests, according to the Knot's 2014 Real Weddings Study, so be sure that enough people know about your plan to assist everyone in attendance.

Always have an alternative

The party doesn't have to stop just because of poor weather conditions. Having a backup plan can allow you to simply move the event to a different location, perhaps something indoors. There's something to be said about a little foresight when it comes to event planning.

Renting a party tent and hosting your event outdoors is a risky game, but usually one that pays off. Outdoor events can be beautiful, especially for a wedding. Just remember these tips just in case the weather doesn't want to cooperate.

Are you in need of wedding chairs, tents, linens, or any type of tent rental in the Harrisburg, PA area? Give us a call today.

Host the Perfect Outdoor Event With These 3 Great Tips

Hosting an outdoor event isn't as easy as simply setting up a few chairs, inviting everyone, and serving some snacks and drinks. There is a lot more that goes into running a successful outdoor event, whether it's a small family barbecue or a large community fundraiser.

Hopefully, this information will help you throw great outdoor events this summer and for the rest of your party-planning days. Here are some great tips for hosting an outdoor event:

• Consider chair spacing -- If you're hosting an event that will feature a speech or requires chairs lined up in rows, you need to be cognizant of spacing. It's recommended to allow eight square feet per chair. Additionally, make sure that if you're using particularly bulky chairs or have guests that need more space to maneuver you take that into consideration.


• Utilize outdoor event rentals -- Acquiring and purchasing all the necessary equipment on your own can be difficult and expensive. It's a must better option when throwing an outdoor event to rent everything instead of spending your own money on them. By working with a legitimate tent rental company, you'll be able to acquire quality tents, table and table covers, chairs, and all kinds of party rentals to ensure that your event is a massive success.


• Keep the food area under the tent -- When hosting an outdoor event, though the majority of your guests might be conversing all around the property, the food and seating areas need to be underneath the tent. Make sure you're utilizing a tent large enough for however many guests you've invited. Use about 200 square feet for the buffet table, 15 square feet (per person) for seating and table areas, eight square feet for standing room, and another eight square feet for a cocktail area.

Make sure you're taking the next outdoor event you're hosting seriously and keep in mind spacing and all other aspects. If you want to find quality outdoor event rentals and work with a tent rental company, give Tents For Rent a call today.

Why Tesla is building new cars in a tent

Photo credit Elon Musk

Amazing work by Tesla team. Built entire new general assembly line in 3 weeks w minimal resources. Love u guys so much! Pic of 1st Model 3 dual motor performance coming off the line … pic.twitter.com/Xr55P3fmGd

— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) June 16, 2018

Numerous sources are reporting that Tesla is now manufacturing it's latest Model 3 electric cars in a huge tent. You may wonder why. Having provided tents for numerous companies, I can tell you that a tent is a great way to add capacity. Building a new facility can take months or years for the planning, permitting and construction to be complete. Tesla applied for a permit on June 7 and was manufacturing cars three weeks later. That is an incredible feat that would not be possible with a traditional building

Many other companies have also used tents for storage, manufacturing or additional capacity for unexpected orders, during construction or remodeling, for disaster response and much more. Do you need a temporary warehouse, factory or retail facility? Contact us today.

Should I plan my wedding outdoors?

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

Here are 4 reasons you should plan your wedding outdoors:

1. If you love the outdoors, fresh air, sunshine or stars, an outdoor wedding is ideal for you. The great outdoors creates a romantic atmosphere that is better than any ballroom.

2. You're planning a country or rustic wedding theme. While an outdoor wedding can fit any theme, a rustic chic wedding is especially beautiful outdoors.

3. You have an outdoor space that is significant to you such as a family property or a lovely venue. Maybe even the place where you said, “yes!”

4. You want your wedding to be relaxed or casual. While you can certainly hold a very formal wedding outside, the great outdoors is especially well suited for a casual wedding.

Reason to opt for an indoor venue:

1. You or your guests have a low tolerance for cool or warm weather (although tent heating and cooling are available)

2. You aren't willing to adjust plans to work with weather changes. Even with a tent, you may need umbrellas for your guests to walk to the tent if the weather changes unexpectedly.

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

3 Awesome Reasons Why You Would Rent a Party Tent

If you stop to think about all of the various parties and events you've either attended or hosted throughout the years (or plan to), it can add up to a lot. With birthday parties, weddings, corporate events, anniversaries, and so much more, it seems as though there's always a party to be had. 

Now consider how many of those events have utilized an outdoor tent. Any June wedding, summer birthday, or family reunion could have easily used a rental tent. There are numerous reasons why they may have chosen to rent a tent, but here are some reasons why you definitely should for your next party.

Design the Space
One of the greatest parts about tent rentals is that they allow you to think of new and exciting ways to redefine a space. Your backyard, outdoor venue, or wherever, can transform from an empty lot into a completely different scene. You don't have to follow the standard conventions of rental tents if you don't want to, either. Consider using the tents to designate a specific focal point instead like surrounding a dance floor or band area. There are so many different options you can choose from and so many creative things you can do so that no party has to be the same. 

Add Your Style
You got the rental tents up and now you're staring at white tent walls and a wide open space. That space and even those walls are now your canvas. You can design the space however you want. Long tables or round tables? What colored linens? Would you want to hang drapery on the ceiling? How will the chairs look? These are all aspects of the design that you get to inflect with your own style. 

Be Flexible
Another aspect of event tents that is absolutely convenient is that they are completely adaptable to your needs. Tents can come in a variety of sizes which can allow you to accommodate as many guests as you need, or features. Maybe you just need a backyard party tent, or maybe you need a large tent to hold your live band and chocolate fountain. Whatever you need, a tent rental company can oblige. 

With that said, you should always consult with your tent rental company about your event. Not only to find out what is and isn't possible but also for their expertise. Their job is to make great parties and events possible, so if you have a question they'll most likely be able to provide some guidance. They might tell you that if you're using cathedral-style seating with rows of chairs, then you should allow six square feet per person. Likewise, they can provide advice on dancefloor placement, air conditioning, and more. Whatever tent or party questions you have, they can help.

If you're planning to throw an outdoor party and need a rental tent, call us today. We can figure out what sized tent you need and help you execute the perfect party.

How to Throw an Epic Outdoor Summer Party in 3 Simple Steps

Winter is finally over, which means you can finally use your outdoor space to throw awesome summer parties again. Instead of "having a few friends over" this year, you plan on throwing (at least) one unforgettable summer party that will blow your guests away.

So how do you go about doing such a thing? Planning a large outdoor party can be slightly more complicated than planning the indoor variety. If you want your outdoor party to be a summertime hit, follow these simple three steps and get everything right.

Write Your Invitations
Instead of sending a group text to your friends and family and hoping people show up, ditch the phone and send out a legitimate paper invite. Not only will people be more willing to come to something that you so obviously took the time to plan, it shows that your party isn't something they're going to want to miss. You don't have to only send out paper invites; you can also use a digital invite platform as long as you have everyone's email address (but you might have better look with an actual mailbox). When composing your invitations, be sure to include what type of food will be served, when it will be served (to avoid latecomers who expect food), what to wear (is it a pool party? Picnic? BBQ?), and what happens if it rains. 

Rain Precautions
Speaking of what to do when it rains, rather than hoping the weather will be perfect and you won't have to reschedule or host everyone in the house, research tent rentals. Renting a tent will not only ensure that the party will go on in the case of rain, but that people have a nice shaded area to escape the sun. When looking at tent and party rentals, note the different styles of tents. There are frame tents, pole tents, tensile tents, and more. In recent years, elegant sailcloth tents have become popular among wedding planners. You'll need to figure out which type of tent rentals are best for your party. The company providing tent and party rentals can also provide chairs, tables, and other party essentials so you look like the party planning master. 

Don't Forget Lighting
Chances are you plan on having your summer party start while the sun is still in the sky, but it most likely won't end in daylight. Which means you're going to have to figure out a lighting setup so that people aren't trying to have a good time in the dark. Your lighting doesn't have to be over-the-top, or even all that bright. As the natural light fades away, people's eyes will start to adjust so all you really need is some ambient lighting. You can hang string lights underneath the tent or around trees, flick on the porch lights, and some tiki torches or lanterns, and you're all set. 

When you're planning your awesome summer bash, don't forget these tips. You want to make sure that the whole neighborhood (or town, if you're determined enough), has a great time and looks forward to your next epic party. 

Don't take the chance and skip the tent and party rentals. You worked hard planning this party, and we can help ensure that everyone at your party stays dry and comfortable.