Photo by Idalia Photography
We often get inquiries for tented weddings at a family home, a farm or a venue like Sandy Hook. Many times, we get questions about how much it would cost to do something like this, which is very challenging to answer because there are a lot of variables. One thing we can say though, is that the costs add up very quickly and just because your venue rental fee may be $0 or a minimal cost, does not mean it can be done cheaper than at an traditional venue.
Here are our top 5 things we’d recommend keeping in mind when you are thinking about going the tented wedding route.
1. You need to bring in EVERYTHING
A place like Sandy Hook can provide power and bathrooms, but that’s about it. Tent, dance floor, tables, chairs, linens, glassware, china, cook tent, caterers equipment, alcohol, ice, water, lighting, tables for décor etc. all needs to be brought in.
2. The caterer needs rentals too
When you speak to a caterer to get cost estimates, make sure you also find out how much their equipment rental costs, because that is on you! This often includes little things too like serving spoons and ice/water for the tables.
3. Consider a wedding planner
Without a venue coordinator, there is nobody to help with setup and making sure that all of the vendors and equipment arrive as scheduled and in the right spot. There are also a lot of moving parts that can easily be overlooked so having someone on board to make sure you aren’t missing anything is important.
4. Bathrooms, Power & Permits
If you are at a raw space, you may need to provide your own bathrooms or additional bathrooms. Power is another concern- because of all the power required from the caterer, DJ and tent lighting, you may need to bring in a generator. Finally, you may need to check with your township to see if you need any permits.
5. Tent extras
Tent costs vary a lot depending on what kind of tent you want. Depending on the time of year, you may
Photo by Heyn Photography
need sides and space heaters. Lighting is another element to think about with lots of options from string lights to chandeliers. Don’t forget to consider flood lights too for the parking area if it isn’t well lit!
Overall, we love a tented wedding, but in case you are still deciding, here are our top 3 benefits and challenges!
Benefits
#1 You can pick the backdrop you’ve always dreamed of whether it be the ocean or a farm!
#2 You can design the space to your liking. You don’t have to worry about loving a venue but hating their ugly carpet. You are selecting EVERYTHING!
#3 It creates the foundation for a beautiful, unique wedding
Challenges
#1 The costs add up quickly as there is a lot to bring in that a venue would normally supply
#2 There is a lot to coordinate and remember and often times things that couples don’t think of
#3 The weather could put a damper on your big day. Even with walls rain can seep in and in the summer a tented event can get very hot.
Shoot us a note if you have any further questions about tented weddings or would like our assistance in planning yours!
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