Party Patter/ Are You Tent Savvy?

 I have been doing many events over the years in outdoor tents. I have found through my own experience that not only do they provide shelter from sun and rain, but also create a more intimate setting for your guests. They are a unique venue for weddings, showers, and graduations.

I thought we could spend a little time going over tenting structures so that if you have an event in the future, you will have some idea if what's involved.

There are many types of tents form the very basic to the extremely elegant.Tent sizes range from 10-by-10 feet to as large as 100-by-300 feet. The first thing you need to do is inspect the area in which you are placing the tent. Check to see that there are no tree branches or electrical wires in the way. Placing a tent on a flat surface is easy but what if you have a smaller area? Here are a few questions you need to ask your self. 

• How many guests will be coming?
• Will the tent be installed in the grass?
• Do you need tent walls?
• Do you need room for a head table, buffet table, beverage area?
• Do you need a dance floor?
• Do you need lights if the party goes into the evening? 

Pole tents are more frequently used for outdoor parties than frame tents. With these, tent stakes are driven into the ground in a grassy area. All pole tents require at least six additional feet in length and width. There are center poles inside that take up some space inside the tent.

Frame tents are more commonly used in smaller or tighter areas. These tents can be used on decks, patios, and parking lots where stakes can't be used. Barrels filled with water are used to anchor the tent.

There are many types of tables available. So how many people can you seat at a  table comfortably ?

• 6-by-30 foot rectangle table seats up to eight.
• 8-by-30 foot rectangle table seats up to 10.
• A 48-inch round table seats six to eight.
• A 60-inch round table seats eight to 10.

Depending on what type of budget you have for your event, you can purchase tableclothes at your local party store or visit a rental company that provides table linens. There are many rental companies in the area that can help you. They have linens that come in basic colors, or very elegant fabrics to chose from.

I decided a few years ago to have my daughter Danielle's wedding in my backyard. I found it to be one of my fondest memories. So why not use a tent to create your next memorable event?

For more info.. Log onto: www.barbaraseleganttouchstaffing.com.