Thursday, April 19, 2012

Graduation Party Tent Check List

As the season approaches for graduation and commencements, there are several items that a renter must consider. Hopefully, this check list will make you're party planning go smoothly and allow you to enjoy the celebration rather than stress over the details. Of course, please visit us at www.oneiltents.com to view our full product assortment and party options.

1. Do I need a permit? - Depends. If your tent is less than 400 sq. ft. (20x20), you generally do not need a permit. Check with your local building department and fire department to be sure of their requirements.

2. How large of a tent should I rent? - Depending on the number of guests and how you'd like to use the space, different tent sizes can accomplish different atmospheres. For a good guide of spacing requirements, please see the seating arrangement page on our website at http://www.oneiltents.com/pages/seating.aspx.

*** It is important to keep in mind that depending on the size of your space, you need to allow some extra room on the perimeter for stakes to be driven to secure the tent. For example, if you have a 20x20 space, we may be able to only set up a 15x15 tent when allowing for the stake line along the perimeter.

3. Can I cook or grill under the tent? - ABSOLUTELY NOT. According to the 2009 International Fire Code,     Outdoor cooking shall not be located within 20 feet of tents. (2404.15.6)

4. Should I rent a pole tent or a frame tent? - Depends. Pole tents are generally less expensive than frame tents but there are certain benefits for each. A pole tent is great if you don't mind center poles partially obstructing your event space. Also, pole tents MUST be staked into the ground for proper set up. Frame tents offer no obstruction throughout the event space and do not have to be staked. Frame tents can be secured using water barrels or concrete ballasts. Depending on your situation one may be a better option than the other.

5. Do I need to rent lighting? - Depending on the time of day for your event, the answer may be no. Of course night time events should be properly lit for the safety of your guests. However, if its a daytime event, odds are you probably don't need to rent additional lighting. If you're looking to add a little flare to your tent, string lights and Christmas lights always look nice.

6. How soon should I be placing my order? We would recommend placing your order as soon as possible. Placing your order early guarantees that our full inventory selection will be available for you to choose from. As we get closer and closer to the event date, supplies go quickly. Also keep in mind that all orders for linens must be placed at a minimum of two weeks ahead of time.

I hope this guide is helpful. If you aren't sure about the size of the space you have available, please call our office at 614-837-6352 and we can schedule a time for one of our representatives to give you a free on site consultation.
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