British fabric structures manufacturer Tectoniks is all set to help—bring on the disasters. By David Littlefield Post-disaster accommodation has changed little over the years, and it is easy to bring to mind row upon row of tented structures that spring up to provide quick, temporary and low-cost shelters for people with nowhere else to go. [...]

Entertainment with a twist. What do you get when you combine live entertainment with a keepsake of an event that clients can treasure forever? Live event art. Event planners are using live event artists to “wow” their upscale clients and turn events into unique experiences for hosts and guests alike. Laura Swytak is a live [...]

By Jeff Rasmussen The impact of the recession on tent fabric suppliers, tent manufacturers and event rental professionals has been profound. Sales for 2009 are down 15-20 percent for tent manufacturers through April, tent orders from event professionals are down and many event operators are in a wait-and-see mode, holding back on making big purchases [...]

Incorporating wood and wood-grain surfaces into decor. A trend is emerging for tented events, especially in the northern California region, toward embracing the natural interior environment. The trend includes using a variety of types of wood in a variety of applications, according to Susan Kidwell, Northern California regional manager for Classic Party Rentals in Burlingame, [...]

Photo booths are becoming hot rental items for memorable events. By Ken Keberle The old time photo booth has been updated. With new digital technology, custom graphics and other features the updated photo booth is a great new rental item. While the technology is becoming both more reliable and more customizable, the age old appeal [...]

Trends converge to create opportunities for tent rental companies. With all the concern about the economy and the environment, many people are rekindling a closer connection with nature and revisiting simpler ways—and tent rental companies are reaping the benefits. Hosting weddings and wedding receptions in rustic settings is hugely popular right now, says Lynne LaFond [...]

Event professionals who know successful branding understand that they must think of every possible way to project their client’s image during an event. The same is true with wedding clients who want their particular “look” on display during every moment of the wedding experience. An excellent way to meet these expectations is to offer custom [...]

Clients who desire an extra dose of elegance or warmth for their tented event may opt for a fabric liner, if they can afford one. In addition to a softer look for tented events, liners effectively camouflage the tent’s less-attractive components. The latest look for liners is smooth fabric, perfect for lighting and projection, says [...]

Lounge spaces and the snazzy furniture that fills them are the latest trend in tented events, from corporate functions to eco-conscious backyard weddings. Depending on the setting of the tent and the client’s budget, a properly fitted tent can now feel like an extension of the client’s home or a posh city nightspot. The newest [...]

As clients become more discriminating, theirchoices for tent décor become increasingly sophisticated—and more costly as well. Decking out a tent with fresh blooms is no longer as simple as placing centerpieces. “We’re dealing with a more mature bride, a bride that has traveled a lot, a bride that is involved in corporate America,” says Coby [...]