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Planning an outdoor wedding? Our Q&A with Ed Santiago, General Manager of Party Reflections, dives into everything you need to know about tents for your big day. From choosing the right tent style and size to selecting the perfect rental vendor for you, we cover it all. Read on to discover some advice from the expert himself and learn how to create a tented celebration that's both beautiful and stress-free!
Photography: Anne Rhett Photography (left), Jacqueline and Laura Photography (middle), Rebecca Sigety Photography (right)
What Are The Most Common Types of Tents Available For Weddings?
Sailcloth Tents: With all the same construction attributes as the regular pole tent, sailcloth tents are designed to have a more “natural” look. They have stained wooden poles instead of aluminum and a translucent top that allows for more natural light during a daytime event.
Pole Tents: A tension-style tent supported by several perimeter and center poles. It relies on the tension of the vinyl fabric roof for its structural integrity. Installed anywhere that staking is possible and the ground surface is level.
Frame Tents: A free-standing framework of aluminum poles that support a vinyl roof without the need for interior poles. This self-supporting structure requires an anchoring system of stakes or concrete weights to hold the tent in place. Clear vinyl tops are an elegant option for this style of tent during certain seasons
Onyx Tents: There are two different looks for the onyx tents. The standard onyx tent is a gunmetal black frame tent, while the onyx garden tent is a structure tent that has a higher middle section. Party Reflections is the only provider of these tents in NC or SC.
High Peak Tents: HP Tents have an interior center pole, which creates a high point. However, the center pole does not go to the ground. These come in 10x and 20x sizes and can be staked or block-weighted.
What Should Someone Look For In a Tent Rental Vendor?
You should look for licensed and insured companies. They should also have pictures of tents online, so you can see the types and quality on either social media or their website. When speaking with the vendor you want to make sure they ask the client questions in return. How the tent is secured on-site? What access will the vendor have for installation? Can they come for site inspections?
What Kind of Lighting Options Work Best In Wedding Tents?
Market lights, chandeliers, echo lights, pin lights, and twinkle lights. Lighting options can
also be combined to create the ideal look that the client wants.
Photography: Haley Foster Photography (left), Courtney Price Photography (middle), Emma Lili Photography (right)
What Additional Services or Rentals Does One Need To Consider Along With The Tent?
Pole tents and Sailcloths must be staked into the ground. Any company that says otherwise is going against the manufacturing specs and putting the client in danger. When considering staking, you need to know what is under the ground where the tent will be placed; sprinkler systems, sewage, power, or cable lines.
How Does One Prepare For Unpredictable Weather When Using a Tent?
Prepare for the worst-case scenario. Include heaters, and side walls from the start, then confirm with your vendor the last date to remove the items without penalty. It is always easier to remove items from orders than to scramble to add them in at the last minute.
Also, make sure to align yourself with a company that has a dedicated event specialist team. They will remind you and/or the planner weeks in advance, as well as suggest the best strategies.
Thank you Ed for all this helpful advice! We are grateful for your insight and hope that this helps remove the stress around the word "tent" for all of our couples on their special day!
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