There are many reasons to love a tented wedding—the touch of intimacy, the ambiance, protection from the elements, and the option for indoor/outdoor elements. However, setting up a tent wedding is a bit more complicated than setting up the tents you used when camping in the woods as a kid. A beautiful, tented wedding is a big job and takes proper planning and preparation, both financially and logistically.
There are many details to consider when opting for a tented wedding. Did you know that clear-top tents act as greenhouses of sorts? So, while they look nice and help bring the outdoors into your event, they trap warm air, which can wilt your wedding bouquet and centerpieces and smear your makeup. Here are nine more things you should know if you’re considering renting a tent for your wedding.
1. Tents are Expensive
Going with a wedding tent rental is not a frugal option. Wedding tent rentals can range from $500-$2000 on the low end, and you also have to pay for your other equipment and decorations to transform your tented space into your dream wedding atmosphere. Considering your tent cost during your beginning budget planning is wise, so hefty expenses don’t blindside you.
2. There are Many Different Models
Wedding tent shopping is like car shopping. There are many different models to accommodate different event sizes, atmospheres, and aesthetics. You should consider the season of your wedding and the size of your guest list.
In harsh weather months, you’ll want a more durable tent option that is enclosed. For seasons of beautiful weather, a more open concept might be just right. Tents with clear tops are modern and sleek, with views of starlit skies and beautiful surrounding landscapes, but don’t forget what we mentioned earlier about the greenhouse effect. Clear top tents often trap warm air, causing humidity.
3. Scout Out Your Spot with Care
When picking a spot for your tented wedding, consider the size of your tent in relation to the surroundings, as well as the view. The tented area shouldn’t take up the entire area. The plot should be flat and free of bumps. It should also be a minimum of 10 feet from any structure.
4. Different Venues Have Different Rules
If you’re booking with a venue, know the rules. Do they have special rules about the tent stakes? Do they have noise restrictions? How early before your event can you begin set-up? Asking these questions is a big deal because tent setup can take a few days to complete. You don’t want to get it all done and have to start over.
5. Tents Get Booked Up Fast
Like booking a venue, we recommend booking your tent rentals at least six months before your wedding day. Rental companies have limited supplies of different sizes and styles, so it’s smart to book right when you have a date and guest count estimate. If you’re set on a tented wedding, don’t put off choosing one and booking it.
6. Tents Come in Different Sizes
One of the most important aspects of tent picking is choosing the right size for your wedding. A tent that is too big will make your wedding look too small and leave you with all kinds of empty space to fill. A tent that is too small will make your wedding feel cramped and stuffy. We recommend planning on 18 square feet of tent per person for a traditional dinner and dancing reception.
7. You Can Choose Walls or No Walls
If you’re getting married in Los Angeles, you can leave your tent open many months of the year. This means not having walls, which is ideal for perfect weather. However, you can opt for a tent with walls to stay safe from outdoor weather conditions. Even if you’re expecting ideal weather and opt for no walls, have wall paneling ready just in case Mother Nature surprises you. If you don’t have a luxury wedding planner, delegate tasks ahead of time to a reliable group of people who will spring into action and help set up the walls if necessary.
8. You May Want Flooring
While some may be fine with a grass floor, others want a more luxurious option. Grass can be irritating for special occasions because heels tend to get stuck in it. Flooring will help bring your event together, make it feel more wedding-esque, and welcome guests to light up the dance floor. You can choose portable outdoor tile, natural fiber rugs, or even Astroturf in a soft, natural hue for a more affordable option.
9. The Temperature Can Make or Break Your Big Day
We want to save you from regrets on your wedding day. You may regret choosing an August tented wedding with no air conditioning. People may leave early and make up excuses to get out of the musty tent situation. If your wedding is in a warmer month, air conditioning and fans are a must. If your wedding date is in a colder month, opt for heat lamps.
A lot goes into a tented wedding. When executed correctly, tented weddings are charming, comfortable, intimate, and a great blank canvas to create your own masterpiece. Be sure to consider each item on our list, and you’ll be able to enjoy your big day regret-free with the people you love most.
If you want to hand the planning over to an expert, contact our luxury wedding planners in Los Angeles, Dallas, or DC. We know the ins and outs of tent weddings and will take care of all the details so there will be only good surprises on your special day.