How to Choose the Right Tent for Your Event

Planning an outdoor event in Waterloo Region or Southern Ontario and unsure which tent to rent?

Whether you’re hosting an intimate backyard celebration or a large wedding reception, choosing the right tent helps keep guests comfortable, protects your setup, and creates a polished event space.

This guide breaks down tent sizes, styles, and weather considerations to help you choose the best tent for your wedding or event

Why the Right Tent Makes All the Difference

Your tent is more than shelter. It’s the foundation of your entire event. From guest comfort to overall flow and visual impact, the right tent size and style help everything come together seamlessly, rain or shine.

Weather-Ready Comfort

Protect guests from sun, wind, and unexpected weather while maintaining a comfortable, inviting atmosphere throughout the day.

Style that Matches Your Vision

From rustic charm to clean, modern elegance, the right tent sets the tone and complements your overall event aesthetic.

Function Meets Flow

A properly sized tent creates space for dining, dancing, gathering, and movement, helping your event feel organized and effortless.

Built for Customization

Lighting, draping, furniture, and layout options all work better when your tent is chosen with flexibility in mind.

Start with Your Guest Count

General tent size guidelines:

  • 10×10 ft tent
    Ideal for vendor booths, cocktail stations, or covering a DJ or bar setup.
  • 10×20 ft tent
    Works well for 20–30 guests in a cocktail-style event layout.
  • 20×20 ft tent
    Perfect for small backyard events with up to 40 guests.
  • 20×40 ft tent
    A popular choice for wedding ceremonies or receptions with 60–80 guests.
  • 30×60 ft tents and larger
    Best for large weddings, corporate events, and galas with 100+ guests.

Pro Tip: Always size up when possible. Larger tents allow for better flow and flexibility, especially for weddings and catered events.

Consider Your Event Style & Layout

Beyond guest count, how you plan to use the tent matters just as much.

Ask yourself:

  • Will guests be seated for dinner or standing cocktail-style?
  • Are you including a dance floor, DJ, or band?
  • Do you need space for a bar, buffet, or lounge seating?

Each of these elements increases the amount of space required. Sketching a simple layout helps ensure everything fits comfortably within your tent rental.

Plan for Weather Protection

Weather is one of the biggest considerations for outdoor weddings and events in Ontario.

Depending on the season, you may want to include:

  • Sidewalls to block wind or rain
  • Tent heaters for spring or fall events
  • Fans or ventilation for hot summer days

Even with a perfect forecast, planning for weather helps prevent last-minute stress and keeps your event running smoothly.

5. Don’t Forget Tent Add-Ons

Tent rentals often include optional upgrades that completely transform the space, such as:

  • Event lighting and string lights
  • Flooring or staging
  • Draping
  • Furniture and décor rentals

These details turn a basic tent into a fully styled wedding or event environment.

Still Not Sure Which Tent You Need?

Every event is different. If you’re planning a wedding, backyard party, or corporate event in Waterloo Region, Elora, St. Jacobs, Guelph, or surrounding areas, we’re happy to help.

Contact us with your guest count, layout ideas, and event vision, and we’ll help you choose the right tent rental for your day.

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Frequently Asked Questions

  • Tent size depends on your guest count and how the space will be used. Seated dinners, dance floors, bars, and lounge areas all require additional room. When in doubt, choosing a slightly larger tent creates better flow and comfort.

  • Capacity varies based on layout. Cocktail-style events fit more guests than seated dinners. We recommend planning your layout first, then selecting a tent size that accommodates seating, walkways, and event features comfortably.

  • Yes. Tents provide shade, protect against unexpected weather, and help define the event space. Even on clear days, a tent improves guest comfort and creates a polished setup.

  • Tents can be installed on a variety of surfaces, including grass and pavement. The setup method depends on the surface and tent style. Let us know your venue details so we can recommend the best option.

  • Frame tents offer a clean, modern look and flexible layouts, while pole tents provide a classic, elegant appearance with high peaks. Sailcloth tents are popular for upscale outdoor weddings due to their light, airy feel.

  • Yes. Sidewalls, lighting, flooring, heaters, and fans can be added depending on availability and event needs. These upgrades help manage weather, improve comfort, and enhance the overall atmosphere.

  • We recommend booking tents as early as possible, especially during peak wedding and event seasons. Popular tent sizes and dates can book quickly.

  • Client pickup is standard for most rentals. Delivery and setup may be available as an add-on depending on location, tent size, and event requirements.

  • Late returns or extended use may result in additional fees. Please let us know in advance if your event timing changes, as extensions may not be possible if the tent is booked for another event.

  • Absolutely. If you’re unsure which tent size or style works best, contact us with your guest count, layout ideas, and event location. We’re happy to help guide your decision.