Photo: Mattie's Studio
One of the more popular venues for bride and grooms who want to be outdoors but don't want to fall subject to the weather are tented receptions. The best part of throwing your party inside a tent is that it's totally customizable — unlike the landscaping or layout of a garden or the interior of a hall or estate. If you want to pitch the biggest party of your life in a tent, here's what you need to consider beforehand.
Tents are whatever you want to make them. From size to flooring and even climate control (need heat or extra AC? No problem!) the options are endless when choosing a tent. There are, however, a lot of things to keep in mind when shopping for the place you'll party as Mr. and Mrs. First, unless you're hosting a reception in a private backyard, you must ask your venue's location if a tent is allowed and where they recommend it's set-up. If the venue confirms that it is allowed, then ask if they work with a particular tent vendor or have a few recommendations — tent prices can vary and you'll want to ensure you find a reputable dealer. Most of all, don't forget that everything added on to a tent — whether its bathrooms, sound systems, generators, ground cover, dance floor, permits, etc — will come at an extra cost, so be sure to accommodate the necessities in your budget and compare prices across companies. Lastly you better go see the tent before you order it! No one needs a hidden surprise on the day of their wedding.