Trading Places - InTents Magazine, June 2006
How do you interact with event planners?
We interact in a variety of ways. First we hope to get involved in the planning process early on. This is vital especially if the primary focus of the event is the tent. The site survey is a must and we encourage the planners to meet with us at the site so we can understand what they would like to accomplish but also let them know what limitations there may be. We like to know everything that will be “under the tent” so we can provide options or the best solution for the event. This means we interact with other vendors as well to ensure it all comes together.
What issues do you run into most frequently when dealing with event planners?
When dealing with experienced event planners, problems are few. Sometimes there are unrealistic expectations that have either been presented as a concept or promised to a client. This can make things difficult for us. I am amazed that someone expects us to be able to erect a tent over a 30’ tree, a swimming pool or on top of a 21story building for example. Apparently they see photos in the magazine but have no idea in the difficulty & cost to accomplish that result.
Have you formed partnerships with event planners?
Absolutely, Event planners view us as experts in tents. They hire us specifically for our creativity, technical knowledge and variety tent inventory options. We view each job as custom and are able to provide solutions that work. Our relationship provides them with comfort and confidence while we get repeat business for a job well done and that is important to the success of our company.
If you could tell an event planner one thing about your job in order to further understanding, what would it be?
It’s really hard work and I wish planners would acknowledge that more often. Liability is always in the back of our mind. We approach each job from a worst case scenario especially with regards to public safety and the weather. Conditions can change daily and we have to be prepared they will.
What trends are you seeing in terms of tented events?
When I first started in the industry tents were seasonal, maybe 6 months a year. In the Midwest we get all 4 seasons and the mindset was it’s too hot in the summer & too cold in the winter. Now we do outdoor tented events all year round. We hope this continues as it helps to have year round revenues.
Wedding & party tents are more theme oriented and the mission is to not have it appear to be a tent from the inside. We are able to accomplish this with décor, floral, liners, lighting and props. I see this trend continuing as planners like you to be creative and achieve the WOW factor.
How is tent renting evolving?
We have gone almost exclusively to frame canopies and structures. We just feel that they allow us more flexibility to meet the requirements of the industry.
