When planning any sort of event, your choice of event furniture can make or break the look, finish and vision that you have in mind and are aspiring to achieve. When you need to hire event furniture, you need to be mindful that choosing the right pieces ensures your guests are comfortable, your space is functional, and your theme comes to life. But how do you make sure you’re selecting the right furniture and supplier in a crowded market? It’s fair to say that asking the right questions is key, and that’s the topic of today’s blog article.
Here’s a guide to the top 5 questions you should ask before you hire event furniture, in our opinion, to help make your event a success. And remember, our team is here to help you every step of the way, so don’t hesitate to pick up the phone!
Table of Contents
1. What is your range of event furniture?
When you need to hire event furniture, one of the first questions to ask is about the supplier’s range. Do they stock the furniture you need for your event? This might include tables, chairs, sofas, bars or even outdoor furniture. A quality furniture hire supplier such as Event Hire UK will offer a wide variety of options, from modern designs to rustic styles, to suit different themes and occasions.
If you’re hosting a wedding, you may want elegant Chiavari chairs and banquet tables. For a corporate event, you might need sleek sofas and coffee tables. A supplier with a broad selection ensures you won’t have to shop around or compromise on your vision and, just as importantly, keeps life simple. The more suppliers you have, the more points of contacts you have, the more deliveries & collections you need to coordinate, and the more transport costs you will have. Surely it makes ultimate sense to keep everything under the same roof!
2. Can I see the furniture before hiring?
Pictures online are helpful, but it’s always worth asking to view the furniture in person. Quality and condition are crucial when you need to hire event furniture, and seeing the items up close can help you make an informed decision.
Ask your supplier if they have a showroom where you can inspect the pieces or if they can provide detailed photos for your reference. This step is especially important if you’re looking to hire event furniture that requires a premium finish, such as galas or conferences. Yes, it’s hire stock we’re talking rather than brand-new furniture hire, but that’s no reason to accept shoddy quality.
3. Do you deliver and set up the furniture?
Delivery and setup are often overlooked, but they’re critical considerations when hiring event furniture. Ask the supplier if they deliver to your location (and what’s the cost) and whether they provide setup services.
Many event furniture hire UK companies include delivery and collection as part of their service offering, but it’s always wise to confirm. You’ll also want to know their delivery times to ensure the furniture arrives well before your event begins. Here at Event Hire UK, as well as offering a paid transport service anywhere in the UK, we also offer our clients the ability to be able to self-collect and self-return their hire equipment, saving paying any transport fees – every little helps, after all!
If setup isn’t included, ask if they provide this service at certain times of year for larger events and, again, what is the additional cost. For large-scale events, having a professional team to handle the setup can save you time and reduce stress. Including this step in your event furniture rental checklist ensures no detail is missed.
4. What are your terms for damage or loss?
We know that accidents can happen at any event, so it’s essential to understand your supplier’s policies on damage or loss. Ask what their terms are if a guest spills a drink on a chair, a table gets scratched or an item goes missing, for example.
Some event furniture hire suppliers may include damage waivers in their contracts, while others might charge for repairs or replacements. Knowing these details upfront can help you avoid unexpected costs. This is one of the most valuable event furniture rental tips to keep in mind when budgeting. Here at Event Hire UK, we aim to be as transparent as possible, and you can read more about our slight damage waiver fee here on our website.
5. How far in advance should I book?
Popular furniture styles and suppliers can get booked up quickly, especially during peak seasons. Ask your supplier how far in advance you should reserve the items you need. We’re pretty sure that the answer will always be the same – as far in advance as possible!
When there’s a need to hire event furniture for weddings and corporate events, booking early is essential to secure your preferred furniture. This is particularly true if you’re working with a company that specialises in event furniture hire UK, as their stock may be in high demand. A good rule of thumb is to book as soon as you know your event date and venue, as it’s always easier to tweak and shuffle things around as your event date gets closer, rather than leave ordering everything until the last minute and hoping for the best.
Additionally, ask about their cancellation or amendment policies in case your plans change. Being proactive and including this in your event furniture hire guide ensures you’re prepared for any eventuality.
Additional hire event furniture advice
In addition to these five questions, here are some extra tips to keep in mind:
Ask about package deals: Many suppliers offer discounts when you hire multiple items, so it’s worth enquiring about bundles.
Check references or reviews: A reputable event furniture hire company will have positive testimonials from past clients.
Discuss your theme and layout: A good supplier will help you select furniture that fits your vision and works well within your space, possibly with mood boards and other visual guides.
When you come to hire event furniture, choosing the right supplier isn’t just about availability or cost – it’s about ensuring your event runs smoothly. Asking these questions when you need to hire event furniture, will give you confidence in your choices and help you avoid surprises on the day. And remember – by taking the time to discuss your needs, you’re more likely to find a company that aligns with your vision and delivers high-quality service. A thorough event furniture hire guide can be the difference between a seamless event and one filled with last-minute challenges.
So, are you ready to hire event furniture?
At Event Hire UK, we make it easy to hire event furniture for any occasion. From weddings and corporate gatherings to festivals and private parties, our extensive range has something for everyone.
We’re here to answer all your event furniture hire questions, provide expert advice and ensure your event is unforgettable. Whether you need classic chairs, modern tables or stylish lounge furniture, we’ve got you covered.
Don’t leave things to chance – order well in advance with confidence. You’ll have enough stress to deal with in the lead up to your busy event, so let us take care of your requirement to hire event furniture – it’ll be one less thing on your mind!