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Event planners expect to see more customization, exquisite tent liners, rich colors and a rebounding economy in 2013.
By Kelly Treadway
Every new year brings new and exciting trends in the tent rental and event industry. We’ve asked event pros to predict what tenting decor trends we’ll see in 2013—and which trends will fade away.
What’s in: As budgets start to rebound we’re seeing more custom liners and pole covers that match the overall decor. Clients are requesting decor elements in richer, darker tones and classic prints such as chevron, large stripes and herringbone.
What’s out: Say goodbye to understated soft goods … bring in bold
and beautiful!
—Steve Bales, creative director,
Bold American Design, Atlanta, Ga.
What’s in: We’re seeing brides turn away from clear-top tents and going back to the traditional tent. They’re enhancing with exquisite custom tent liners and fabulous LED lighting that enhance the color and personality of their event. They’re looking for something out of the ordinary … something that hasn’t been done previously.
What’s out: Clear-top tents. In their place, custom accessories and lighting under the traditional white tent provide drama and unique decor features.
—Meghan E. Cease, owner,
M. Elizabeth Events, Birmingham, Ala.
What’s in: The trend in customization and personalization will continue. With all of the low-cost printing techniques available and more manufacturers bringing cost down, the trends toward custom-printed Velon, fabric, carpeting and customized artwork for tenting walls will greatly pick up. Additionally, with the invention of 3-D printers, we will begin to see custom-designed one-of-a-kind chandeliers and lighting fixtures start to make in-roads.
What’s out: Boring one-color drapery and the 1999 brass chandeliers.
—Kristjan Gavin, CMP, president,
In Good Company Meetings
& Events, San Ramon, Calif.
What’s in: We’re seeing trends that take us further away from the traditional use of furnishings and place them directly into the design limelight. Clients are requesting spaces to gather within the tent that are intimate, warm and stylish. Within these spaces we’re seeing the use of bright color blocking or warm tones mixed with eclectic accent pieces.
What’s out: Strike cocktail seating with Chiavari chairs. Bring in multiple groupings of cozy lounge seating for guests to gather.
—Tricia Schmitt, vice president of brand management,
AFR, Pennsauken, N.J.
What’s in: Tent liners—not only the classic white and ivory sheer, but look for stripes, chevron and prints to transform tent ceilings. And we’re getting more requests for tents with hardwood floors. Currently we’re researching both real and faux versions of hardwood for a number of clients.
What’s out: Exposed tenting structure, especially in ceiling areas.
—Shereé Bochenek, creative director,
Après Party and Tent Rental, Edina, Minn.