A Guide to Choosing the Right Type of Tent for your Big Day

If you’re planning an outdoor wedding, choosing the right tent is essential. Tents not only provide shelter for you and your guests, but they also create a beautiful and unique atmosphere for your special day. However, with so many types of tents available, it can be difficult to know which one is right for you. In this blog, we’ll explore the different types of tents available and help you choose the perfect one for your wedding.

Pro: Affordable | Con: Internal Configuration & Aesthetic

Pole tents are the most common type of wedding tent and are recognizable by their classic circus tent shape. They are supported by tall center poles and require tension from ropes or guy wires to keep the structure stable. Pole tents are perfect for weddings with a more rustic or traditional feel, and their high ceilings provide a grand and spacious atmosphere.

On the plus side, pole tents tend to be more cost-effective than other types of wedding tents, such as frame tents or clear span tents. This can be especially important if you’re working within a budget.

While pole tents are a popular choice for outdoor weddings, they do come with some potential drawbacks. One of the main cons of pole tents is their reliance on center poles for support. While these poles can add to the classic look and feel of a pole tent, they can also create obstacles within the tent and limit the layout options for your event. This can be especially problematic if you have many guests or a specific seating arrangement in mind.

Pro: Easy Setup | Con: Space Needed & Cost

If you’re looking for a versatile option for your wedding, a frame tent might be a great choice. Instead of center poles, frame tents are supported by a metal frame, which makes them easy to place without requiring stakes to be driven into the ground. This means they can be set up on various surfaces and are perfect for weddings where space is limited, or the ground is unsuitable for stakes.

Frame tents have several advantages, including their lack of center poles, which allows for more flexibility in layout, making it easier to place tables, chairs, and decorations. Additionally, they can be customized with features like clear walls, flooring, and lighting to create the perfect atmosphere for your wedding. Frame tents are also designed to withstand various weather conditions, thanks to their sturdy aluminum frames and heavy-duty fabric covers. However, frame tents can be more expensive than pole tents due to their complex construction and higher material costs. They also require more space to set up and take longer to assemble, and they typically have lower peak heights than pole tents, which can make them feel less grand and spacious.

Pro: Breathtaking Aesthetic, Size & Durability | Con: Time to Setup & Heat when Transparent

Clearspan tents are a modern alternative to traditional pole or frame tents for weddings. They offer a variety of roof and wall options, including transparent and white canvas, which make them a versatile choice for any style of wedding. The sturdy, box-like structure of clearspan tents is supported by an aluminum frame, eliminating the need for ropes or guy wires for stability. This makes them an ideal option for creating a clean, open space for your wedding. 

In addition to their modern and versatile appearance, clearspan tents have other benefits as well. The aluminum frame provides a sturdy structure that can withstand a range of weather conditions, and the lack of center poles or guy wires allows for more flexible use of space. Clearspan tents can also be customized with features like air conditioning, heating, and flooring to create a comfortable environment for your guests. However, the cost of clearspan tents can be higher than other types of tents due to their complex construction and the need for specialized equipment to install them. Additionally, they require a larger area to set up, which may not be feasible in some wedding venues.

Pro: Natural Beauty | Con: Weather Durability

Sailcloth tents are a popular option for weddings that require a breezy and romantic ambiance. These tents are constructed with lightweight and translucent materials that create an open and airy atmosphere. The wooden poles provide support for the tent, adding a touch of natural elegance to the overall design. The nautical feel of the sailcloth tent makes it an excellent choice for beach or waterfront weddings. 

One of the major advantages of sailcloth tents is their natural beauty, which makes them perfect for outdoor events. They provide an unobstructed view of the surroundings and can be customized with various lighting options to create a magical atmosphere. However, one of the disadvantages of sailcloth tents is that they are not suitable for all weather conditions. They are not as durable as clearspan or frame tents and may not withstand strong winds or heavy rain. Another disadvantage is that they require more space than traditional pole tents due to the wooden support poles, which may limit the layout options for some events. Despite these limitations, sailcloth tents remain a popular option for those seeking a romantic and relaxed outdoor wedding.

When choosing the right tent for your wedding, it’s important to consider factors such as the size of your guest list, your venue’s layout, and your desired atmosphere. Working with a professional tent rental company can help ensure that you choose the perfect tent for your special day. With the right tent, your outdoor wedding is sure to be a beautiful and unforgettable experience for you and your guests. Let Glass House Events take the guess work out of finding the perfect tent for your big day. Click here to speak with an expert about tent configuration, size, pricing and more!