Sometimes the best event space is in your Chicago backyard.
There are times when renting a space at one of the premier rental venues in Chicago is the best option. But just as often, the best event space for an event can be created in a tent on a patio or side lot ANY time of the year. A tented space is the perfect way to add additional space to a main building for a party or a corporate event.
The major advantage of an adjacent tented space is convenience; many restaurants find this approach useful for March Madness events because it adds space that customers can easily access. It also allows businesses to plan a cohesive event atmosphere with coordinated décor and activities. The space can be tented with a wall utilized for direct guest access or a tent can be raised nearby with a connected (and climate-controlled) doorway.
Step 1: Decide the best location for the tent.
The best location may be a green space or over a hard surface (cement or pavement). Tents can be secured on both surfaces without damaging the lawn or cement pad.
If the location for the tent is close to another building—but not directly connected—the two event spaces can easily be connected with walkways. Even on the coldest Midwestern winter days, these walkways can be climate-controlled for optimal guest comfort and convenience.
Step 2: Set an estimated guest list.
One of the biggest benefits of a tented event space is the variety of sizes available. Tents are available for large spaces with a capacity to fit hundreds of guests or for a smaller, more intimate gathering of 20-100. Tents can also easily be outfitted with doorways that are suitable for guests with mobility issues. Once the estimated guest list is set, contact a tent rental company with the approximate guest count (or dimensions of the area that should be tented).
Step 3: Consider the event equipment needs.
Once the details of the tented event space are confirmed, it’s time to think about the atmosphere and event needs. This step doesn’t need to be finalized right away, but should be considered during the event planning process.
Finalizing the event equipment checklist revolves around several factors: 1) type of event, 2) expected attendance, and 3) event layout and guest flow. While the specific equipment list is different for every event, the list could include:
- Tables
- Chairs
- Linens
- Food service containers
- Audiovisual equipment (i.e. projectors, screens, speakers, etc.)
- Lighting
- Pipe and drapes
- Event décor
For assistance with determining the exact equipment needed and event layouts, contact an event planning equipment professional.
Step 4: Think about the expected weather on the day of the event.
Even though most people think of a tent as warm-weather event equipment rental, tented event spaces are an easy way to create an event space any time of the year. On the coldest Chicago winter days, tent heating systems are available with a thermostat for a comfortable (and adjustable) environment. When the temperature and the humidity peaks during the summer, air conditioning systems are able to keep tents cool without interrupting the event activity. The result is a comfortable event space that is both convenient and attractive to guests.
