If you have planned the reception of your wedding to be held in a wedding tent, some specific preparations are in order, just to make sure that you don’t encounter any surprises from which you will not be able to recover. The goal is to make your tent reception unique and differently tasteful enough to leave an impression such as your guests have not quite experienced before, in a good way of course.
The first of business is to select the proper tent style, such as a pole tent. You can start by draping the support poles with tulle or chiffon. You might want to have a clear top tent, so you can party on into the night and view the stars, if the weather cooperates. Another idea is to get a wide-open flattop framed tent that has no center pole, thus giving more space for guests. Or even plan on a Tuscan themed reception under a tent with a slatted ceiling, and then drape the grids or slats with flowers and grapevines.
Be sure and check with your city fathers as far as ordinances if you are planning your tent reception in your back yard on your own property. Be kind to your neighbors, and inform them of your plans, while taking them some cookies, and perhaps you will win their favor. Get enough umbrellas for guests in case it rains, and be sure that you plan for enough rest rooms for the number of guests you are inviting.
Plan for a generator for the band, lighting, and such and be sure not to put the tent up over a septic system. Little things can mean a lot. Lighting can really mean a lot, as it sets the mood. You might want to hire an event specialist for this, as it can add tremendous results to your event.
Paper lanterns add a special touch to the lighting effect, or even chandeliers can give the effect that you want. You can utilize Tulle by wrapping it around the tent poles, tying it in large bows on the backs of the chairs, or at the outside corners of the tent itself. You can even use it to hang large, elegant swaths from the top to the sides of the tent.
Well-spaced containers of flowering plants such as hydrangea, mums, or rose bushes add a magnificent touch to such a festive event. Large rolls of fabric (fire proofed) can be hung from the top of the tent sides to the top of the tent pole. How about crystal wedding trees, or caged birds hung about at strategic places. Birds are always positive, and add a festive, free air to any event. Miniature lights or icicle lights strategically placed add a sense of surreal elegance. Try some palm trees at corners and entrances.
Glass balls, stars, and a few wind chimes at the entrance poles will chime with any wind that passes through. Decorative columns can be placed at a focal center of attention from which announcements can be made. A portable dance floor would be a good touch if dancing is the order of the event.
Let your imagination take over. Consulting with a wedding consultant is always a good idea in order to stay within acceptable bounds, yet come up with imaginative ideas that set the tone of the day.
