How to Choose the Right Type of Tent for Your Event
Once you know how big your tent needs to be, the next step is choosing the right type of tent. Not all tents are created equal—and the right structure will depend on your event’s style, location, weather, and budget. Here’s a breakdown of the most common types of tents we offer, along with key pros and cons for each.
If you need help determining the correct tent size first, check out our guide to selecting the right size tent for your event.
Why Rent a Tent Instead of Buying a Cheap Canopy?
It’s tempting to buy a $200 canopy online—but for a formal event, here’s why renting a professionally installed tent makes a huge difference:
Which Tent Is Right for You?
Ready to rent a tent, but not sure which one to choose? Here's a quick guide:
Renting a Tent
Safe in unpredictable weather
Professional setup & takedown
Clean, attractive, and event-ready
Scalable for large groups
Includes delivery, anchoring, and support
Renting gives you peace of mind, especially when you're hosting people you care about—like wedding guests, clients, or family. Our tents are inspected, cleaned, and installed with safety as the top priority.
Buying a Cheap Canopy
Prone to collapse or fly away
DIY setup often time-consuming
Looks casual or worn quickly
Limited size and stability
No backup if something goes wrong
If you’re hosting...
A backyard wedding on grass
A reception on pavement or mixed surfaces
A multi-day event with weather risk
A casual backyard cookout or vendor booth
Choose a...
Pole tent or frame tent
Frame tent
Structured/clearspan tent
Pop-up canopy (or small frame tent)
We’re here to help you match your event vision with the safest and most stylish setup possible. Let us know what you’re planning, and we’ll recommend the best option—so you can focus on enjoying the day.
Here’s a more detailed breakdown of all the tent types and why a certain tent type might be the better fit for your event. Use this guide to ensure you’re choosing the right type of tent.
Tent Types: What’s the Difference, and Why Does It Matter?
Pole Tent
🎪 Classic look with high peaks and elegant curves
✅ Most affordable for large sizes
✅ Great for weddings, festivals, and grassy venues
⚠️ Requires staking into the ground (needs extra space)
⚠️ Center poles inside the tent (can affect layout)
💡 Best for: Outdoor weddings, backyard parties, open grassy areas
Frame Tent
🏗️ Freestanding structure with no center poles
✅ Works on any surface (grass, concrete, asphalt)
✅ No interior poles, so more flexible layouts and interior space
⚠️ Slightly higher cost than pole tents
💡 Best for: Patios, driveways, tight spaces, small-to-medium formal events
Structured (Clearspan) Tent
🛡️ Engineered for maximum stability and weather resistance
✅ No interior poles—totally open space
✅ Handles wind, rain, and long-term setups
✅ Sleek, upscale appearance
⚠️ Most expensive and labor-intensive to install
💡 Best for: Luxury weddings, corporate events, multi-day installations
Pop-Up Canopy
⛱️ Lightweight and quick to set up
✅ Inexpensive and portable
✅ Great for short-term shade or vendor booths
⚠️ Not weatherproof—limited size and stability
💡 Best for: Casual backyard use, small craft fairs, or farmers markets
The best way to select the right tent is to consider the weather. If rain and wind is a concern, you’re better off with a structured tent. If weather isn’t a concern and style is your main priority, your best option is a frame tent or pole tent, depending on if your surface is grass or concrete. Finally, for more casual events where weather isn’t a concern, a pop-up canopy will meet your needs just fine. If you’re still unsure, we are happy to speak with you about your needs and what size will work best for your event! Give us a call today at (919) 578-2426.