How to Know What Size Tent You Need for a Wedding

CAD drawings

As the spring wedding season nears, and the economy isn't getting any better, many couples are faced with planning their own backyard weddings. Most people do not have a clue where to start when the subject of a wedding tent comes up. What size do you need?

Things You'll Need

• pencil
• paper
• calculator

Instructions

1. 

   Know The Basics. The most crucial aspect of calculating a tent size is knowing the number of people you want to invite. An estimate will do, but try to be within 40 people. You will also need to know what kind of activities you want to happen under the tent. For example, is this tent only for dining or only for the ceremony? Do you want a dancefloor? Are you planning to have a 12-piece band or a DJ? If you are planning to dine under the tent, you need to know whether the dinner will be a served meal or a buffet in order to prepare for proper area. You must know where you want the tent to go. An open prairie can provide for a much larger tent than an urban backyard. Make sure that you think size when creating your guestlist.

2. 

   Calculate for seating. There are several basic formulas for determining the amount of square footage needed. If you are planning to seat your guests for dinner at a round table (8-10 people at each table), plan on at least 100sq.ft. per table with chairs. If you are planning to seat guests at 8' long banquet tables (8 people per table), plan on 80sq.ft. per table. Theatre-style seating for a wedding ceremony with folding chairs will need approximately 6sq.ft. per person.

3. Calculate for dancefloor. If you are planning to have a dancefloor, you should have a pretty good idea of how many people will make use of it. If most of your guests are over the age of 65, you may be able to predict that they will not be shaking a leg. A good estimate of dancefloor size is 2-4sq.ft. per person. For a 200 person wedding, a good estimate of dancefloor size is around 20' x 20' floor.

4. Calculate for entertainment. If you will be having a stage for a band or DJ, be sure to take into account their equipment needs. A four-piece rock band with drum kit and amps will need a stage of at least 12' x 20'. Do not forget to think about any sound engineers they may bring as well. A DJ can usually make do with a couple of banquet tables. I would recommend a 10' x 10' size space for a basic disc jockey.

5. 

   Calculate for food. A served meal takes less space inside a tent, but you must think about any preparation/service area that your caterer will need. This might require an additional tent near the main tent. If you are planning for a buffet, make sure that you allow for the tables, any aisle space on either side, and an area for a line-up. This can add up to about 100sq.ft. per 8' banquet table.

6. Calculate for a head table. Do not forget about you! Whether you want an elevated area for 20 attendants or a sweetheart table for two, be sure to allow for plenty of space. For example, an elevated long head table for 8 will need at least 200sq.ft.

7. 

   Finally, think about what style of tent you want. There are several types of tents that are available at your nearest event rental company. Pole tents are the most traditional type of wedding tent. Pole tents provide that "sweepy" look that a lot of couples find romantic. However, you must account for the center poles that will invade the interior space every 15'-20'. You do not want a pole on your dancefloor! You must work around these poles in the layout of your tent. An alternative is to get a frame or track tent. These tents are made more like a permanent structure and have frames that will allow the top of the tent to span without needing poles. If you are desperate for a "sweepy" look on the inside, ask your rental company about a tent liner. They are pricey, but will soften the look of the tent.

Tips & Warnings

• Think height. You cannot put a 3' tall stage near the perimeter of most tents because of the lack of headroom.

• Think safety. Do not forget to "call before you dig" as most tent companies prefer to stake a tent into the ground.

• Think power. The placement of your tent may limit what kind of electrical options you have. Although the middle of a field allows for a lot of space, you will probably need to look into getting a generator to provide electricity for lighting and music.

• Think layout. A lot of party rental companies will be able to suggest a tent size for you or provide you with a CAD drawing of our event. Even if they charge for the service, it is worth it to actually see the layout of everything for the peace of mind.

• Many tent and party rental companies provide tents to festivals and fairs. Make sure that you ask for a "wedding quality" tent, or you may end up with a striped circus-style tent!