Step-by-Step Rentals: What you will need to give your guests a special reception experience

Let’s face it. There’s a long list of things you have to start thinking about after getting engaged. Finding the perfect venue, attire and caterers are a few things that dominate the top of that list. Sometimes, rentals for your reception get overlooked, even though chargers, flatware and linens are three of the easiest ways to take your reception style to the next level.

Since the process of picking and rentals and knowing exactly what is necessary for your reception can be daunting and add stress to your already hectic life, we have created a step-by-step layout you can take with you to your local event rental store to plan your reception party.

Step One: Establish a Layout

Once you’ve chosen a venue, have the event coordinators work with you on a layout for your reception. A layout will help you decide whether you want to rent round tables, banquet tables, farm tables, or a mixture. Deciding whether to rent a sweetheart table or just to sit at the head table with your bridal party becomes an important decision at this step. If the venue you’re at does not provide chairs, that is another item you will need to add to your list of things to rent. Several websites or apps provide tools that will help you create a floorplan if the event coordinator at your venue is not willing or able to do so.

Step Two: Linens, Linens and More Linens

At this point in the process, you should be prepared with specific colors and theme picked out for your wedding. The easiest thing to begin with when entering an event rental company is the color of the linens for your guest, head and cocktail tables. If you wish to have a classy, timeless look, you may choose white or ivory linens with a pop of color in your napkins. However, for a more vibrant and unique look, select a colorful linen! You may also choose to mix and match the colors of linens by alternating tables. Take into consideration the option of using runners, sashes and lays to add a pop of color, as well. There is an endless amount of ways to do things and the choice is all yours!

Step Three: Chargers, Plates and Flatware

Once you choose your linens, it is time to focus on what will lay on top of the linens — your guests dinnerware. Chargers are not a necessary part of dinnerware, but they add personality to a table setting and can tie a look together. Unless you choose to use plasticware for your dishes and flatware, you have endless possibilities for what you wish your guests to eat off of and with. You can add a pop of color with a antique designed set of china or choose to remain simple with a polished white set. Flatware comes in nearly every color now, with brushed gold, rose gold and black being among the most popular this year. Once you’ve chosen these items, your place setting should start coming together and creating the vision you’ve been working towards all along.

Step Four: Lights and Drapery

Depending on the venue, adding lights and drapery to the reception area would make the space feel more intimate and personalized. This is a more expensive option as labor is included in the pricing, but is often worth it if you’re shooting for a romantic and elegant look. Sometimes draping and café string lights are not practical for the location, so this is another conversation to have with the venue’s event coordinator and rental company consultants to see if it is even feasible.

Step Five: Extra Items and Optional Pieces

Take into consideration the season in which you are tying the knot before entering a rental company. If it is summer in an area with high temperatures and the reception space is outdoors, it might be wise to rent a tent to provide shade for your guests. On the contrary, if you’re getting hitched in frigid weather, consider renting space heaters from the company to keep your guests warm and cozy. If necessary, look into renting a dance floor to ensure that your party will last all night long, or a bar where bartenders can serve up your favorite drinks. Most rental companies offer endless options for food service pieces , place settings and even some decor.

No matter what you are renting, using this guide will help you create a plan before entering a rental company and choosing items to amp up your special day.