Tenting 101

Frame Tents

The frame tent has no interior poles, but instead a framework of horizontal poles below the ceiling that are often concealed by draping material from the ceiling to the walls. Frame tents are ideal for tight spots because they need little or no clearance around their sides.

Bale-Ring/Push-Pole Tents

The bale-ring tent has a framework of center poles, quarter poles, and perimeter poles. These tents need to be staked to the ground, and as a result, need clearance around their sides.

Tension/Genesis Tents

The tension, or Genesis, tent needs fewer interior poles than a bale-ring tent, and has higher centerpoles, creating a more "open" feeling inside. Like the bale-ring tent, these tents need to be staked to the ground, and as a result, need clearance around their sides.

Specialty Tents

There are also modular tents, custom tents, clear tents, and more. These tents are not as common and, therefore, not as readily available.

Wood Subfloor

A wood subfloor is constructed of wood framing with plywood applied on top. It can be constructed over virtually any surface, including an uneven surface, a moderate incline, or even a swimming pool, providing a safe and sturdy surface. Often, the plywood subfloor is covered with artificial turf or carpeting.

Plastic Subfloor

Often referred to as "port-a-path," this rigid plastic subfloor can be applied to virtually any flat surface.

Artificial Turf

Available in several colors, artificial turf can cover most surfaces, but does not protect against rain or mud.

Dance Floor

If the tent is on a level surface, a dance floor can be installed directly onto the ground. It is recommended that a tarp be placed underneath the dance floor if the surface is grass or dirt.

White Wall

The most common wall offers privacy and a clean, white palate for your decor.

Windowed/Cathedral Wall

The decorative "Cathedral" windowed walls offer additional light and outdoor views.

Clear Wall

Clear walls protect your guests from the elements while incorporating the surrounding scenery.

Specialty Walls

If protection from the elements is not your concern, you can construct walls from various materials including sheer fabrics and lattice covered with ivy.

Ceiling Liners

You can drape the ceiling of your tent in many different ways and with many different materials. The most common techniques used are: fully pleated, minimal pleating, and flat "false" ceilings. Some commonly used materials are velon, muslin, and duvateen, but virtually any flame-proof fabric can be used. There is also the option of backlighting the ceiling liner or casting decorative gobo light patterns on them.

Sidewall Liners

Sidewalls can also be draped using similar techniques as ceiling liners. Full pleating, minimal pleating, and smooth liners are all available.

Partial Swaging

Partial swaging is used to create interest and focal points. You can use fabric, vines or props to create intricate garlands that are draped across the ceiling of the tent.

Pole Draping

Tent poles can simply be wrapped with material or can take on lives of their own with some creative ideas.

Lighting Techniques

Lighting can transform a tent from a simple open space into a dramatic, romantic or magical environment. Color washes, patterned gobos, focused pinspots, and dramatic chandeliers are but a few of the techniques used to transform a tent.

Props and Plants

Props and plants can add interest to your event and also hide undesirable rigging elements related to tenting.

Entry Ways and Doors

An entry to a tent can be as simple as a section of wall removed, or as sophisticated as a marquee entrance or real french doors.

Stairs, Ramps and Staging

Tents can house multiple levels or tiers with connecting stairs or ramps. Staging can be created in varying sizes and heights or be custom made to your specifications.

Portable Restrooms

If the event location does not offer adequate restroom facilities, portable restrooms can be brought in for the event. These restrooms can be as elaborate as a mobile trailer with separate men's and women's rooms that contain individual stalls, sinks, mirrors and ambient lighting.

Climate Control

Heating and cooling is available for your tented environment. If the site does not have the capacity to power these machines, a generator can be used to power them.

- Permit Assistance
- Rain Contingency Planning
- Debris Management
- Security Services
- Parking Considerations
- Site and Utility Survey
- Special Considerations