As the weather warms up, many people enjoy entertaining outdoors. When hosting an outdoor event, it’s always nice to have an area where guests can socialize. If it’s really sunny and bright outside, for example, it’s a good idea to provide a shaded area. During the evening, strings of lights can provide just the right amount of illumination.

There are different tent rentals that can be perfect for outdoor entertaining. Frame and pole tents are the two basic types of large event tents. Their tops are available in either polyester or vinyl. Most tents used for large events are made out of vinyl because it is a strong and durable material.

Since there needs to be enough space to accommodate everyone on the guest list as well as tables, chairs, and other fixtures, the number of square feet that will be needed can be easily determined. As soon as the number of guests have been estimated, there is an easy formula to compute the amount of space that will be needed. All you need to do is multiply the number of guests times these potential requirements:

• 15 square feet for table seating
• 6 square feet for cocktail or other standing areas
• 8 square feet for a ceremony or for seated guests
• 2 to 3 square feet for a dancing area
• 25 square feet for a conference or head table

When chairs are going to be lined up in rows so guests can listen to a speech or a panel of speakers, five to six square feet per chair is usually needed. It’s also important to take the size and style of chairs into consideration because additional space might be required. While it will depend on the number of guests in attendance as well as how the area is arranged, allowing eight square feet per person should be enough to allow for both the chairs and the aisles. Having a designated area for guests with mobility devices is also something to add to your spatial requirements.

If appetizers are going to be served, some hosts choose to provide these in a cocktail-style area while others may have a buffet table or food stations. When a formal meal will be served, tables and chairs will of course be needed. You may want to consider having more than one backyard party tent so that there are separate areas for dining and participating in other activities, such as dancing.

Have you been thinking about purchasing your own party tents? If you host outdoor events more than four times a year, this may be a good idea. However, if you only host these types of events on occasion or a few times a year, renting may make more sense. Tent rentals are a convenient option, too, because you don’t need to be concerned about storing them when not in use. Furthermore, when you discover how much easier it is to entertain when you have tent rentals, you may decide to do so more often.