Securing capital events

Sugarplum Tent Company brings security to Washington, D.C., events.

Providing tent and event rental for the Washington, D.C., area often comes with a special concern—security. And Sugarplum Tent Company’s founder and president Davis M. Richardson has been preparing to address issues of security since his graduation from the United States Military Academy, where he earned an engineering degree and served with distinction as an Army officer for more than 24 years in both active and reserve assignments. “My background as a graduate of West Point and as a military officer are unique in the industry, and give me a good perspective as to what high-visibility clients want and need,” Richardson says. “It also makes me very aware of the security issues we have here.”

Sugarplum Tent Company has provided tent and event rental services at a host of such venues including the Office of the Vice President, the Newseum, the State Department, the Department of Defense and numerous embassies, as well as social events—galas, weddings and bar and bat mitzvahs. “The D.C. region is unique due to the fact that it’s home to countless federal agencies, national and international organizations and embassies from every country,” Richardson says. “We also have a significant nonprofit sector that often relies on annual galas and fundraisers to augment their bottom line.”

The general affluence of the Washington, D.C., region also plays a part in expectations for event rental companies. “Clients here expect the very best both in terms of service and the quality of rentals,” Richardson says. “This not only includes tenting, but also encompasses decor, florals, lighting, etc.”

Though Sugarplum is often hired to host high-profile government and military clients, it is also eager to provide services for any of the armed forces. “I spent many years in the Army and Army Reserve, so supporting the military, our servicemen and women and families is rewarding to me,” Richardson says. “Whether it’s a high-ranking retirement, a groundbreaking at a local military facility, a commemorative run event in honor of a fallen soldier or a welcome home party for a Navy Seal team—these events are always meaningful and rewarding.”

Each year, Sugarplum provides tenting for the Pentagon to commemorate 9/11. “I was a Reserve Colonel assigned to the Army staff agency directly impacted by the attack,” Richardson says. “I was immediately mobilized to serve several extended tours of duty in support of our operations and that important memorial service holds great significance for a lot
of families and individuals—including myself.”

No matter what the occasion, planning comes into play for a successful event, something Sugarplum prides itself in. The company makes it a priority to communicate with clients to make sure their event is covered—both literally and figuratively.