Wednesday, March 10, 2010

Under the Big Top

Who hasn't seen a big white tent set up around town and wondered what festive event was going on inside?  A tent can add great WOW factor to any outdoor event.  Festivities offers a variety of tent styles, perfect for any look.  Call the pros to ask what will work best for your next soiree or shindig.


A frame tent is designed for installation on concrete, asphalt, or grass.  They have poles on each corner, but the canopy is supported by a suspended center pole.  This gives you full use of the space under the tent.  They tend to have a little more casual feel and have limitations on ceiling decor.  Several can be grouped together to create a larger tent.  Standard sizes are 10'x10' and 20'x20'.


A clearspan tent is another frame style tent, but has the ability to create a large seamless structure.  This tent utilizes a track system where the canopy is actually fed into the frame section by section.  It has a slightly arched roofline and side poles every 10'.  You have complete use of the interior as there are no center poles.  Interior decor can include draped fabric, lighting, lanterns, chandelier...the sky is really the limit.



A pole tent is what most think of as a "circus" tent.  However, the pole tents of today are a far cry from the big red and white striped jobs!  These tents must be staked into the ground as the guy lines create tension for the high peaked canopy.  The interior does contain center poles, but, is (by far) the most dramatic.  The huge center poles draw the eye up to the massive sweeping roof.  There are numerous decor options with this style.


Fabric can be used to create a soft look.


Lanterns can add a fun touch.  Lighting can add some drama.


Tents are not all created equal.  There are vast differences in quality and consequently in price. 

Here are a few tips before you rent a tent:

Use a reputable company.

Contact a full-service company that can provide all of your rental items.

Be sure to compare apples to apples when shopping around.

Ask to see photos of the company's work.

Schedule a site visit to ensure that the size and style tent will work in your space.

Discuss Plan "B" as weather can impact any outdoor event.

When considering venue options, don't forget the "big top"!  You will be the talk of the town.

-Lori  








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