Made in the Shade

Cool advice on how to rent a tent for your outdoor event—by Roger Gordon

Tent Basics

Essentially there are two types of tents- pole and frame. Pole tents (or canopies,as many people refer to them) are generally used for casual events. Pole tents are supported by center poles.

Frame tents are usually used for more formal events, especially if a dance floor or specialized insulation is needed. A bit pricier than pole tents, frames are more diverse. They are self supporting, so there are no poles underneath, providing an unobstructed view of the entire area.

What To Ask

"People might want to think about what kind of seating options they want," Mazar suggests. "It's more of an elegant look for the round tables. Its more casual and easier for people to talk at an eight-foot rectangular table."

"If they want a dance floor in the tent, the poles in the canopy are only ten feet apart; those poles will get in the way of the dance floor. So, again we recommended a frame tent," Koebel explains.

Frame tents are usually used for more formal events, especially if a dance floor or specialized insulation is needed.

"Ask if there are any hidden charges, so there are no surprises," he says. "There are a number of companies that will quote people, and then when the customer gets the bill, they include a fuel surcharge or a damage waiver. Hidden fees are a big frustration with consumers who are looking for a tent.

"When we talk to a customer, we give them the price, tell them that includes the setup and the takedown, give them a cost of delivery, and also tell them [if it does, or if] it does not include the setup of the tables and the chairs."

 

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