Pole Tents

Classic and elegant, pole tents are supported by center poles and side poles. They feature peaked tops and require staking into grass or soft ground.

• Best for: Grass venues and outdoor spaces
• Distinctive peaked ceiling creates dramatic height
• Most cost-effective option for large spaces
• Requires proper ground conditions for staking

Frame Tents

Versatile and freestanding, frame tents can be set up on any surface and don't require center poles.

• Can be installed on any surface
• Unobstructed interior space
• More flexibility in layout design
• Ideal for concrete or paved areas

Clear Top Tents

Perfect for starlit evenings and natural light, clear top tents offer a unique outdoor-indoor experience.

• Beautiful for daytime and evening events
• Great for nature-focused venues
• Can be heated and cooled effectively
• Premium option for sophisticated events

High Peak Tents

Also known as marquee tents, these create an elegant, sophisticated atmosphere with their dramatic peaks.

• Elegant and upscale appearance
• Great for small to medium gatherings
• Can be joined together for larger spaces
• Popular for luxury weddings

Spring (March-May)

• Consider flooring for wet ground conditions
• Plan for both heating and cooling options
• Include sidewall options for wind and rain
• Better pricing than peak summer months

Summer (June-August)

• Peak wedding season - book well in advance
• Cooling systems are essential
• Consider clear tops for evening events only
• Plan for higher peak season pricing

Fall (September-November)

• Popular for outdoor weddings
• Temperature control may be needed
• Beautiful natural backdrop
• Consider earlier sunset times

Winter (December-February)

• Requires substantial heating
• Snow load considerations for tent structure
• Higher utility costs
• Magical atmosphere possibilities

Space Requirements Per Person

• Seated dinner: 15-20 sq ft per person
• Cocktail style: 8-10 sq ft per person
• Ceremony seating: 8 sq ft per person
• Buffet line: Add 100 sq ft per 100 guests

Additional Space Considerations

• Dance floor: 2-4 sq ft per person
• Band or DJ area: 200-400 sq ft
• Bar area: 100-200 sq ft
• Buffet tables: 100 sq ft per 100 guests

Popular Lighting Options

• String lights or bistro lighting
• Chandeliers and pendant lights
• LED uplighting
• Spotlights for focal points
• Paper lanterns

Tent Liners and Draping

Transform your tent with fabric treatments that create an elegant indoor feel:

• Full tent liner for a finished look
• Partial draping for accent areas
• Swags and valances
• Backdrop draping for ceremony area

Essential Weather Planning

• Book sidewalls for wind and rain protection
• Consider flooring for wet conditions
• Have a climate control plan
• Ensure proper drainage around tent

Backup Plans

• Additional covered walkways
• Umbrellas for guests
• Indoor backup location if possible
• Weather monitoring leading up to event

Basic Tent Costs

• Small weddings (up to 100 guests): $2,000-$5,000
• Medium weddings (100-200 guests): $5,000-$10,000
• Large weddings (200+ guests): $10,000-$20,000+

Additional Costs to Consider

• Flooring: $4-8 per square foot
• Lighting: $1,000-3,000
• Climate control: $1,000-4,000
• Generator rental: $500-1,500
• Setup and teardown labor

12+ Months Before

• Research tent companies and options
• Book tent rental for popular dates
• Secure venue location

6 Months Before

• Finalize tent size and style
• Book additional rentals
• Plan layout and flow

1 Month Before

• Confirm all details with rental company
• Review weather contingency plans
• Finalize setup and teardown schedule

• Underestimating space needs
• Forgetting about climate control
• Not having a weather backup plan
• Overlooking power requirements
• Insufficient lighting planning
• Not considering bathroom facilities
• Forgetting about parking space
• Inadequate timeline for setup/teardown

Personal Touches

• Custom entrance designs
• Themed lighting schemes
• Creative floor plans
• Unique ceiling treatments

Comfort Considerations

• Lounge areas for guests
• Proper ventilation
• Clear signage and wayfinding
• Accessible pathways