Tenting 101

 

Tented events offer endless options and a unique experience while protecting your guests from weather conditions that may affect your outdoor event.

Tents serve as a blank slate that allows you to be creative and transform your event into anything your heart desires, giving you more flexibility than you would at a venue. Party tents can be completely customized with draping, flooring, lighting, and more! Backyard BBQ’s, festivals, graduation parties, family reunions, weddings – whatever the special occasion may be, we have a tent that will fit your needs. We have three different types of tents, let’s break it down:

Photo Credit: Shelly Ruth Photography

Frame tents are spacious and have flexible layout options as they do not have any center poles or obstructions. The framework is made of aluminum or steel pipes that support the fabric roof. This special fabric does not require stakes to keep the proper tension, allowing flexibility in the placement of the tent. For example, frame tents are a great option if you want to install the tent as close to a building, home or structure as possible. Frame tents are also versatile if staking into your grass or asphalt is not an option. Frame tents can be weighted with cement ballasts to safely secure the tent. Due to costs, tent weighting is a good option only if you absolutely can not stake the tent.

Some advantages of a frame tent include 1) more visibility inside a frame tent due to no center poles 2) more flexibility with the layout and floor plan and 3) a better option for ceremonies.

 

Pole tent photos by Jessica Strickland Photography

If you are hosting a larger event, then we recommend a Pole or Century tent. Pole tents and Century tents are tensioned tents that are supported by stakes that are every 10’ around the perimeter of the tent. 40’ wide pole tents have a single row of center poles based on the size every 20’ down the middle of the tent.  60’ wide century pole tents have a double row of center poles based on the size every 30’ down the middle of the tent.  This creates high peaks which improves the overall aesthetics of the tent. Pole tents are staked into grass or asphalt and cannot be weighted.

Some advantages of pole tents include 1) a more economical option 2) aesthetically pleasing due to the high peaks and 3) available in larger sizes.

 


Clear Span Tent Photo: Sara Ackermann

ClearSpan tents are the perfect solution for weather-tight events because they can withstand high winds, rain, and adverse weather conditions. It provides a permanent feel, making it ideal for long term installations. Advantages of Clear Span tents include:

  • Great for long-term use
  • Unobstructed interior space usage
  • Rafters can accommodate complex lighting and AV Systems
  • More interior options to choose from
  • Creates a truly memorable event

If you are thinking about renting a tent for your upcoming event, we recommend inquiring with us as early as possible. Tents are in high demand during the summer and fall and often book out months in advance. Call to speak with one of our experienced Tent Specialists for a customized quote!

Tent Checklist Form

 

Leave a Reply