Having a tent reception can be a very cost-effective yet elegant way to celebrate a special occasion. Whether you are planning a large wedding ceremony, or a small intimate one, you can find a tent that is perfect for the occasion. Tents are ideal for providing shelter from rain, extreme sunlight and wind, and you can hire them from a number of rental facilities. Before you hire a tent, you need to know the different types available.
1. Pole Tents
Also known as push-pole tents, these are some of the most popular and inexpensive tents available. They come in different sizes and are easy to assemble. The design comprises a tall center pole and shorter perimeter poles. The tent is supported with ropes or tie-downs and the anchoring has to be secure to ensure that the tent stays up. This type of tent, with its peaked roof, is very common for weddings but it requires a large space for the set- up.
These tents are usually made of vinyl, with metal polls and sides. The sides of the tent can be mesh, window or white depending on the style.
2. Frame Tents
For those looking for a simple and elegant shelter, the A-frame tent is the perfect solution. This tent does not require tie-downs to keep it stable, making it convenient where there is limited space. The tent comes in different sizes and it has no center or interior poles. It rests on a metal frame and provides a clear view and open space for dancing and dining. This type of tent needs to be installedprofessionally, and it is often made of vinyl with metal side poles. The sides can be white, windows or mesh, perfect for any occasion or time of day or night.
3. Clear Span Tent
These structure tents, also called box-beam framework, have an aluminum frame support with no center pole. They are often very large and look somewhat like an airplane hangar. They are ideal for large events and are weather resistant. They usually come in all white and can spread to over 160 feet wide. They have a vinyl cover and they need to be set up by professionals. The interior of the structure has a sloped peak effect. These tents are not very common and in most cases, they need to be special ordered.
4. Tension Tents
A high peaked tension tent looks a lot like the pole tent, and requires the use of tie-downs round the perimeter, but it is much higher. The center pole is much taller creating more space that is interior and an airy feeling. The tents come in large and are perfect for upscale weddings, where the additional space is perfect for decorating. There are high-tech designs that provide optional windows. The tents are often white or translucent depending on the design.
5. Canopy or Marquee
For those on a tight budget, or those who choose to have a small intimate wedding, a canopyor a marquee can offer the perfect solution. This tent is easy to assemble and will not require professional installation. Most people who opt to use canopies choose to buy rather than rent the tents. They are inexpensive and are ideal to use in the backyard when entertaining at home. These tents are open and airy and offer protection from the sun or light rain. With no interior poles, the sides are open and are perfect when the weather is beautiful, but they do not provide much protection from the wind.
When choosing the right tent for your event, you should think about the location, the number of guests and your budget. Make sure that you hire tents from a reputable company that has good quality products.
