Party Rentals: The Host’s Complete Guide

| Industry Insight

No matter what type of event you’re planning, there’s no doubt that a lot of work is involved, from food to entertainment, decorations, and just making sure everything is a go. Rentals are an important part of party planning, too. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned host, we’ve put together a guide to help you stay on track with your party rentals.

1) Party Tent Rentals

Think about your space. If you’re planning anything outdoors, you’ll likely want to rent a tent. Not only do tents protect your guests and food from the elements, they provide ambiance and a gathering place.

Pole Tent – Because they come in a variety of sizes, pole tents are perfect for just about any occasion. They’re easy to set up and take down, and their peaks are whimsical and festive. Adaptable for almost any size crowd, pole tents are ideal for festivals and concerts.

Frame TentFrame tents provide an open, unobstructed space for your guests. Their sturdy, weight-bearing frame eliminates the need for poles or stakes, making them a great option when staking into the ground is not an option.

Clearspan TentClearspan tents are the best option when it comes to housing HVAC functionality. They are the most versatile and customizable of all structures, with capabilities for lighting, staging, flooring, and more. The option for clear sidewall or ceiling panels makes them truly breathtaking.

Tension Tent – Also known as the wedding tent, tension tents are designed for upscale events. While technically considered a pole tent, they are made of a heavier vinyl and have additional stakes, making them better at withstanding troublesome weather. It’s popular to enhance the prestige of your tent by adding side walls and chandeliers.

2) Seating Rentals

Seating offerings will largely depend on what type of event you’re hosting. If it’s a formal occasion, such as a wedding, rehearsal dinner, or award ceremony, you will want to ensure proper seating for everyone. That means one chair per guest and a place at the table.

Popular seating options:

Chiavari Chairs – Also known as the Tiffany chair, Chiavari chairs are the epitome of class and elegance. Rent this chair for its beautiful appearance, comfort, versatility, and easy storage.

Mirage ChairsMirage chairs are whimsical and minimalistic. Their transparency means they won’t distract from table settings or decor, and in fact, complement any color palette. Perfect for weddings, they’re also called ghost chairs.

Classic Folding Chairs – Classic yet contemporary, folding chairs are an excellent choice for any event. They’re easy to store and transport, and available in a variety of colors.

Farm ChairsFarm chairs are a favorite at rustic and boho-inspired weddings. Their simple crisscross back adds just the right touch of design. They’re also lightweight with a natural finish.

3) Table Rentals

Although the purpose of renting tables seems obvious, you’ll want to consider table rental needs that are less apparent, such as gift tables and cake tables, depending on your event, of course.

Rectangular Tables – Arranged in columns end-to-end, rectangular tables are ideal for large events as they make the most of their space.

Round TablesRound tables are great for any type of event, as they encourage whole-table conversations. If you have a large space to fill, round tables are your go-to option!

Cabaret Tables & Highboy Tables – You may also be familiar with these types of tables as cocktail tables and pub tables. These are great for casual to upscale parties, giving your guests a place to set their drinks while they mingle. Highboy tables make excellent pedestals to show off your wedding cake, too.

Picnic TablesPicnic table rentals are perfect for backyard BBQs, family reunions, and graduation parties. With seating attached, they leave room in your budget for other party must-haves!

4) Glassware Rentals

In order to ensure your guests are drinking from proper glassware, it’s imperative to know your menu. What kinds of beverages are you serving? For instance, a birthday party serving craft beer will require very different glassware than a garden party serving wine, and if you’re hosting a New Years Eve party, be sure to rent champagne flutes!

For menu-based recommendations, check out our Glassware Rental Guide.

5) Tableware & Flatware Rentals

Renting tableware and flatware is a sure way to elevate your event. Choose between clean white porcelain, like the Royal White collection, or add interest and a metallic accent with the Alpine Silver charger. Guests will appreciate the weight of quality flatware like the Hammer Forged flatware.

6) Linen Rentals

Linens protect your tables and add interest to the overall aesthetic of your event. With a variety of textures and colors to choose from, table linens rentals can help tie in your event theme, whether it’s a casual birthday party, graduation party, or something more formal, like for a wedding or fancy baby shower rentals.

Check out the Table & Linen Rental Size Guide for recommendations.

Now that you know what kinds of rentals are available for your event, contact Well Dressed Tables to secure your tent, tables, chairs, and more!