When you forgo a party planner for your event, you can save a lot of money. However, you are then left to secure the venue, caterer, and entertainment on your own. One of the many decisions you will need to make is deciding what kind of equipment you will need, which will likely include renting things from an equipment rental company. Here is a list of things to consider.
Tents
Outdoor wedding and other parties need to have a tent space to protect guests from the elements in the event of inclement weather as well as provide shelter from the sun. A tented area also creates intimacy.
In addition to tents and canopies, you can also rent tent accessories. Depending on the time of year your event is scheduled, you may want to add air conditioning, heating, or both if your local climate incorporates hot days and chilly evenings. You will also likely want lighting. Lighting options range from Chinese lanterns to elegant chandeliers.
Tables And Chairs
Your guests will need somewhere to sit. Most event rental services provide an assortment of table and chair options. Depending on your needs, you may need lightweight round or rectangle tables that can be easily set up and covered with tablecloths, or you may prefer wooden farmhouse-style tables. You might also want to consider high-top tables that seat four people, suitable for the cocktail hour or bar area.
Barstools, folding metal or wooden chairs, wood benches, and ladderback chairs in assorted colors such as white, gold, silver, natural, or bright colors mean your table and chair seating options are unlimited.
Linens
Unless you are going for the all-natural look of naked wooden tables, you will likely need tablecloths for all of your tables. These can be white or ivory, or you can choose colors that will coordinate with your wedding colors. You will also need cloth napkins, runners, and depending on the type of chairs you have chosen, chair covers and sashes.
Serving Ware
The food is one of the best parts of any event, but it does require a lot of equipment. Glasses, plates, bowls, cups, and silverware will all be needed. You may also need serving platters, bowls, covered dishes, gel fuel canisters to keep chafing dishes warm, and assorted utensils.
Entertainment Options
If you are having a band, you will need a stage. You might also want to consider renting a portable dance space. This can be as simple as a wooden floor, or you can choose an electronic dance floor that lights up and even "plays" the lights in beat to your music. Other entertainment options, such as a photo booth, are other considerations.