When planning an outdoor event like a wedding or corporate party, you may consider a tent rental to provide shade and shelter against bad weather. Since you may have no experience selecting this type of tent, choosing one that's not too large or too small could be frustrating. Here is some advice for selecting a tent that's an ideal size for your event.

3 Tips for Choosing the Right-Sized Tent

1. Dining

Be aware that 60-inch round tables take up more space beneath a tent rental than do oblong tables. You'll need about 100 square feet of tent for every eight-guest table or 12 to 13 square feet per person. For rectangular tables, you'll need about 80 square feet for every eight guests or about 10 square feet per person. Divide your guest list by eight and multiply by 100 square feet (or 80 square feet, for rectangular tables) to determine how much tent you need. When planning a wedding and reviewing the seating and number of guests, remember to include the bridal party in the final count.

2. Dancing

A standard floor is 12' x 12', and you'll want the tent to overhang it, so plan for a 16' x 16' canopy. You must also shelter the band or DJ—the former takes up more room than the latter—along with any speakers, amplifiers, turntables, and other equipment. Plan for at least a 10' x 10' tent for music, and larger if the band has large equipment or a lot of members.

3. Food Service

Many outdoor wedding receptions rely on buffet-style food service. If this is in your plans, you’ll want a 10' x 10' canopy for every 8-foot buffet table. This will be enough to shelter the food and give guests room to form lines on either side of the table.

If you seek an affordable, reliable tent rental, contact Bryant's Rent-All in Lexington, KY. They are family-owned and -operated and have served Fayette County and the surrounding areas since 1953. They specialize in party supplies, wedding decorations, and generators, chairs, and equipment rentals. Learn more about them online or call (859) 252-0408 with specific inquiries.