Choosing the Perfect Wedding Tent for Your Calgary Celebration: Styles, Sizes, and Features
A wedding tent can be the perfect solution for outdoor celebrations in Calgary, offering versatility, protection from unpredictable weather, and endless customization options. With so many styles, sizes, and features available, choosing the right tent can make a world of difference in your guests' comfort and the overall aesthetic of your wedding. Here’s a guide to selecting the best wedding tent for your Calgary celebration, from styles to must-have features.
Why Rent a Wedding Tent for Your Calgary Wedding?
Calgary’s beautiful outdoor venues and scenic landscapes make it an ideal location for tented weddings. Tents not only offer a sheltered space but also create a blank canvas where you can bring your vision to life. With options to customize the interior, lighting, and decor, a wedding tent can be as elegant or casual as you’d like, making it a popular choice for Calgary brides seeking flexibility and style.
1. Types of Wedding Tents
There are various styles of wedding tents, each suited to different wedding themes, guest counts, and venue requirements. Here are some of the most popular options:
Pole Tents
Pole tents are classic, elegant structures supported by center poles and anchored to the ground with guy lines. They feature high peaks that create a dramatic effect and are ideal for larger weddings where a grand, open look is desired. These tents look beautiful with draping, lights, and floral arrangements and work well on grassy areas.
Best For: Large weddings, grassy venues, and elegant or formal themes.
Pro Tip: Keep in mind that pole tents require extra space around the perimeter for staking.
Frame Tents
Frame tents have a metal frame structure and do not require interior poles for support, allowing for a completely open layout. They’re ideal for venues with limited space or areas where staking isn’t possible, like patios or rooftops. Frame tents are highly customizable and can be set up on various surfaces, including concrete and gravel.
Best For: Smaller or oddly shaped venues, areas where staking is restricted, and modern themes.
Pro Tip: Frame tents offer flexibility with sidewalls, making them a great choice for cooler Calgary weather.
Clear Top Tents
Clear top tents feature transparent roofs, allowing natural light to fill the space during the day and offering a stargazing experience at night. These tents are perfect for scenic outdoor locations, as they let you enjoy views of the surrounding landscape while staying sheltered.
Best For: Venues with beautiful surroundings, evening weddings, and couples who want an open, airy feel.
Pro Tip: Clear top tents can warm up quickly under sunlight, so consider using them for late afternoon or evening ceremonies.
Sailcloth Tents
Sailcloth tents have a light, semi-transparent fabric and gently sloping sides that allow natural light to filter through. They’re known for their elegant, coastal-inspired look and work well for romantic or bohemian-themed weddings. The sailcloth material adds a soft glow that creates a charming, ethereal atmosphere.
Best For: Rustic or bohemian themes, weddings seeking a natural light effect, and scenic outdoor locations.
Pro Tip: Sailcloth tents are weather-resistant, making them suitable for Calgary’s variable weather, though they may not hold heat as well in colder conditions.
2. Sizing Your Tent
Determining the right tent size depends on your guest count, layout preferences, and additional features you plan to include, like a dance floor or lounge area. Here’s a general guideline to help you estimate tent size:
Ceremony Only: For a seated ceremony, allocate around 10-12 square feet per guest.
Reception with Dining and Dance Floor: For dining tables, a dance floor, and some lounge space, plan for about 15-18 square feet per guest.
Additional Features: If you’re including a buffet, bar area, or stage, add extra square footage to your calculations to keep the layout comfortable and spacious.
Pro Tip: Speak with your tent rental provider, as they can help you determine the exact size based on your needs and the layout of your venue.
3. Essential Features and Add-Ons
Choosing a wedding tent is about more than just the structure—you’ll also want to consider additional features that enhance comfort, aesthetics, and functionality.
Flooring Options
Flooring can be a great addition for both practical and aesthetic reasons, especially if your venue has uneven ground or you’re expecting inclement weather. Flooring options include:
Wooden Floors: Ideal for rustic or elegant themes.
Carpet or AstroTurf: Comfortable for guests and helps create a cozy atmosphere.
Raised Platforms: A great choice for rainy weather to keep guests’ feet dry.
Pro Tip: Flooring is a good idea if you’re setting up on grass, as it makes dancing and walking in heels easier.
Sidewalls and Heating
For weddings in cooler months or breezy outdoor settings, sidewalls and heaters can keep guests warm and comfortable. Sidewalls can also provide privacy and shield against wind or rain.
Clear or Windowed Sidewalls: Maintain the view while protecting from weather.
Solid Sidewalls: Offer more privacy and a cozy feel for intimate settings.
Pro Tip: Consider heating options if your wedding is in early spring or late fall to ensure guests stay comfortable.
Lighting
Lighting can transform your tented space, especially as the evening sets in. From chandeliers to fairy lights, there are plenty of ways to add ambiance:
Chandeliers: Create a glamorous look, perfect for formal weddings.
String Lights or Fairy Lights: Add a romantic, whimsical feel.
Lanterns and Candles: For rustic or boho themes, lanterns and candles provide a warm, cozy glow.
Pro Tip: Use uplighting along the perimeter to highlight the tent structure and create depth.
4. Choosing the Right Decor for Your Tent
Decorating your tent is where you can really let your personality shine. Here are a few ideas to create a cohesive, styled look:
Draping and Fabric: Soft fabric draping can make the tent feel cozy and elegant, creating a sense of intimacy in larger spaces.
Greenery and Floral Arrangements: Incorporate fresh greenery or floral garlands along poles, around entrances, or even hanging from the ceiling for a garden-inspired look.
Statement Pieces: Chandeliers, statement floral installations, or even unique lounge areas can add personality and style to your tented space.
How to Make the Most of Your Wedding Tent
Working with a Calgary tent rental provider will ensure you get the right size, style, and features for your wedding day. They can help you navigate setup logistics, arrange add-ons, and plan for Calgary’s variable weather. Here’s how to make your tented wedding truly special:
Consider Your Venue: Take advantage of scenic views by choosing a clear-top or open-sided tent.
Embrace the Season: Incorporate seasonal elements in your decor, such as cozy rugs and heaters for fall or fresh floral displays for spring.
Think About Layout: Map out your tent space carefully to ensure a smooth flow for guests from dining to dancing.
Creating a Beautiful and Comfortable Space
A wedding tent gives you the best of both worlds: the freedom of an outdoor celebration with the comfort of an enclosed space. By selecting the right type, size, and features, you’ll create a stunning environment that keeps guests comfortable and enhances the overall beauty of your day.
For more inspiration, resources, and tips to bring your dream Calgary wedding to life, visit YYCBride.com for all your planning needs!
