Order rentals

Style your space, not just your ceremony

Once you’ve locked in your venue and guest count, it’s time to think about what your guests will actually sit on, eat off of and dine around. Even if your venue includes some basics, most weddings still require additional rentals to create the look, layout and comfort you want. From linen-covered tables to statement chairs and dance floors, here’s what to consider when placing your rental orders.

Rentals may not be the most exciting item on your checklist, but they play a major role in how your wedding looks and feels. With the right vendor and a little creativity, your tables, chairs and décor can bring your vision to life, right down to the last linen napkin.

What you might need

Rental needs vary, based on your venue and vision, but here’s a checklist of the most commonly rented items:

  • Tables: Round, banquet, cocktail or sweetheart
  • Chairs: Ceremony chairs, dining chairs, lounge seating or barstools
  • Linens: Tablecloths, runners, napkins, overlays
  • Dinnerware: Plates, chargers, flatware, glassware
  • Serving items: Buffet equipment, chafing dishes, serving utensils
  • Decor pieces: Lanterns, arches, draping and signage
  • Functional items: Tents, lighting, dance floors, fans or heaters

Unique rental options 

Want to make your wedding feel less like an event and more like an experience? These creative rental ideas can bring personality, fun and comfort to your celebration:

  • Lounge furniture: Create relaxed conversation zones with vintage sofas, tufted ottomans or rattan chairs. Perfect for cocktail hour or under the stars.
  • Custom bars: Branded, mobile or themed bars that match your style, from rustic wood to sleek modern setups.
  • Neon signage: Fun and photo-worthy, especially when customized with your last name or favorite phrase.
  • Statement backdrops: Floral walls, greenery panels, arched installations or modern screens for your ceremony or photo booth.
  • Champagne carts or drink walls: Stylish and interactive alternatives to a traditional passed drink.
  • Unique lighting: Think bistro lights, chandeliers or LED globe fixtures. Lighting sets the mood more than you might think.
  • Specialty tabletop items: Colored glassware, textured chargers, gold flatware or printed menus that take your table scape up a notch.

Pro tip: Ask your rental company if they partner with specialty vendors, or work with your planner to track down unique pieces locally.

Work with a reputable rental company

Start contacting local rental companies about five to six months out. Many offer catalogs online with images and dimensions to help you visualize your setup. If you’re working with a planner, they may handle this for you or recommend their go-to vendors. Be sure to ask:

  • Do you deliver, set up and break down?
  • What’s your policy for damage or weather-related issues?
  • Can I adjust my order as guest counts change?

Fill the room with feeling

Rentals don’t just fill a space, they help define the atmosphere. Consider how your tables, chairs and linens work together to reflect your aesthetic; whether it’s coastal chic, modern glam, garden party or laid-back Lowcountry. Just as important: make sure your guests will be comfortable sitting through dinner and toasts. You’ll place your initial order before RSVPs are final, but build in a buffer. Once you get the final headcount (usually three to four weeks out), adjust quantities accordingly. Also confirm drop-off and pickup times, access to your venue and who’s in charge of setup.

Similar Posts