The Event Planner's Guide to Managing Space on Tent Rentals

Tent rentals tend to go wrong if there are too many people more than what it can lodge. When planning an event, it is not just the number of guests you have to take into consideration. It also includes the number of tables and chairs, size of the stage and the length of the buffet table. Looking for the right tent rentals may require a little math then.

Standing or sitting. There are two ways to enjoy dinner parties: a sit-down dinner or a cocktail event. Obviously, you will need more area for a sit-down dinner than a standing cocktail event-around 15 to 16 square feet per person. For cocktails, you only need half as much, since there is no need for chairs and huge tables. However, dinner and cocktail parties differ in terms of the kind of food served so consider this tidbit.

Number of guests.Sometimes, it pays for your party, especially a formal one, to be marked as by-invitation only. This way, you can have a better figure at the number of guests attending the event. One major advantage of tent rentals is that the workers can adjust the frame of the tent to accommodate different volumes of people. They can use a larger fabric for more metal frames to create a larger party space.

Setting the stage.A stage is essential if you plan to have a band to perform for your party-and it considers both the band members and their instruments. For example, the drummer needs at least 50 to 75 square feet of space; the pianist around 50 square feet; and the guitarist and lead vocalist a mere four square feet. Supposedly, the band has this number of members, the stage overall needs to be more than 130 square feet big.

Buffets and bars.Coordinate with the catering service on how much space the waiters will need to set up their stations. If you have at least 100 guests attending, consider having two buffet and bar stations so that food distribution will be easier. Another option is to have one very long table but serves two sets of the same menu on either side. One long table will accommodate more people in queue.

Dance floor. Surely, you want your guests to dance the night away after the party proper. The ideal measurement for the dance area when you opt for tent rentals is at least five square feet per person. But make it 10 feet just in case people want to dance by pairs, just like in a ballroom.