Cheers! You can’t have a toast without a glass! At AAYS Event Rentals, we offer an impressive selection of glassware for a variety of occasions and budgets. You may be wondering how to plan for your event when it comes to drinkware. Following are a few ways to help you determine your needs:

Is your event cocktail party chic or more of a casual buffet setup? We carry goblets, all-purpose glassware, stemware, and barware varieties to fit the intended mood.

If event planning isn’t your strong suit, you may have a hard time estimating the number of glasses needed. No sweat! A general rule of thumb is that a guest will use one glass per hour. So, in doing the math,  a 5-hour event with 100 guests will command 500 glasses. Easy peasy, right?

The nature of the event will dictate the type of food and drink served and therefore, the appropriate barware. For example, will you be serving just beer and wine, or will you offer a full bar? The latter will require more variety in size and style of vessel.

In general, glass is the preferred material for drinkware. It packs both form and function, as in wine glasses, for example, allowing wine drinkers to have an elegant experience by holding the stem without warming the wine.  You can also choose from regular glasses for water and soda and higher-end stem glasses for champagne, wine, brandy, and martinis. Bear in mind, your choice of glassware should suit the mood of your event.

If you want to leave your guests in awe, then you should consider investing in renting some fine glassware. We’re confident your event will be the talk of the town for years to come with special touches. We are here to make your event dreams come true with our stunning selections and variety. View our inventory of glasses here and take your pick.

You should also know that we offer more than just glassware. We are your one-stop-shop for all of your event rental needs in the Mishawaka area and beyond. While you’re on our website, check out our wide selection of tables, dinnerware, linens and more. Or better yet, stop by our showroom and we’ll walk you through some remarkable options! We’re at the ready to help you translate your vision into a reality.

Now let’s get that party started!

You said “yes,” so now what? Let the fun of wedding planning begin! When it comes to wedding planning, it’s all about the details – and that includes considerations like seating. What type of chairs is best for your Big Day? The answer will depend on your preferences and several other factors. We’ve broken it down for you here:

What comes to mind when you think of seating at a ceremony or reception? Folding chairs can be an attractive option because they are lightweight and easy to maneuver. Plus, they come in a wide range of color and materials, like vinyl, metal and upholstered. Durable, they will hold up well to the elements, which make them an excellent choice for outdoor ceremonies and receptions alike.

While folding chairs have their advantages, you’re not limited to this option. Stackable chairs are comfortable, ergonomic, and structurally solid, which means they’re ideal for more extended periods of sitting. The feature of a padded seat also adds another dimension of comfort. Mostly, you will get much more style and design from a stackable option enabling you to enhance your overall theme.

It should be mentioned that the guest list may dictate your choice of chairs, at least in part. For example, if you have older and/or disabled guests, they may require special consideration. Try to put yourself in their shoes. What would serve them best?

Some brides dream of a rustic and simple motif, while others aspire to host a black-tie affair that screams of sophistication. For the former, you might consider the Cross Back Barn chairs or Rustic Metal chairs, which will contribute to a more relaxed vibe. A more upscale occasion will command a more refined look. In this case, Chiavari chairs, in mahogany, gold, or silver, will fit the bill. These Chiavari chairs have elegance, sophistication, and style.

Your options may be more limited or numerous, depending on the location of your ceremony and/or reception. For example, churches/reception halls will likely have some basic inventory and you may not have much say in the specifics. Other venues, however, may allow for more choice on the part of the bride and groom. It’s important to mention that while some facilities may provide basic chairs as part of the fee, they will grant the use of rental chairs instead. Moreover, some places don’t keep chairs on-site, so you may have to rent from a third-party source like AAYS Event Rentals.

Regardless of your chair selection, don’t get too hung up on the details. The day is about you as a couple and your love. The chairs will take a backseat (pun intended) to the occasion. Still, it’s fun to plan and dream up all the details. Know that we at AAYS Event Rentals are here to help you along the way. Stop by our showroom and we’ll walk you through some remarkable options!!

Summertime, sweet summertime! Outdoor corporate events, while a nice change in scenery, call for more planning and foresight than traditional indoor ones because the weather is the extra variable. No fear; you’ve got this! Keep these considerations in mind, and you’ll minimize stress and set yourself up for success!

Will your event be a laid-back family-friendly picnic or more of an upscale adults-only affair, like a wine and cheese night? Once you determine the vibe, you can move on to the details, like venue, menu development, and decor.

Will your event be on site or elsewhere? Some municipalities call for a permit even if the event is held on public grounds. Apply for one as soon as you’ve finalized the details in order to avoid any bureaucratic snafus. Similarly, you’ll need to make yourself aware of noise ordinances, as well as fire and safety codes.

Do you plan to host the event in an already existing outdoor facility? That can streamline planning and execution. On the other hand, if you plan to go with a less commercialized space (like a public park), there’s a good chance you’ll be responsible for all the details. Think everything from A/V equipment to food.

You can’t over-prepare in this case. Many event planners find it helpful to take photos of the venue and use those as a visual to map out the layout. How and where will the equipment be loaded in? Where will food and drink be placed? Entertainment? Your map will need to take into consideration power sources. If these are at a premium, you may need to bring in generators.

Will your event be held in the middle of the summer heat? That brings its own set of challenges, like the risk of dehydration. Have a steady supply of drinking water and/or drinking fountains spread all around the venue. Consider renting portable air conditioners or fans, too.

In addition to heat, summer is associated with bugs. Keep cans of light scent (such as aloe) repellant handy and incorporate tiki torches, and decorative citronella candles. Decorative chafing dishes can keep the food protected while still looking classy. Sunblock is another essential to have on hand. It’s not a bad idea to have a first aid kit at the ready.

The most common reason to cancel outdoor events is inclement weather. If there’s a lot at stake, you can consider buying weather insurance. It’s helpful to start monitoring the weather as far in advance as possible so you can adjust plans accordingly. Also, keep the wind in mind. Lightweight items will need to be secured.

While you can’t predict bad weather, you can plan for such an event. Many of our tent rentals have sidings available that can be closed in case of wind or rain.

Taking into account your timeline, budget, and company culture, there’s an outdoor party idea that’s perfect for your team. Use this as a starting point to spark your creativity, and we can help you take it from there.

Still not sure what kind of party you should throw? Survey your employees! They’ll appreciate that you care and feel more invested in the outcome.

See also: Survival Guide for Planning a Company Event

So you’re planning a wedding and everything has to come together seamlessly. According to WeddingWire.com, you will need to allocate 50 percent of your total wedding budget to the venue, cake, catering, and rentals. There’s a lot to manage with tables, seating, table linens, color coordination, dimensions, and a variety of vendors. Aside from the location and the food, how to further break it down? We recommend identifying your priorities. Start by taking a look at your needs. Will you be renting for the ceremony, as well as your reception? Here we will touch on a few basic rental needs to help you begin this pertinent line of thinking:

Yep, that’s right; you simply need a seat for everyone. As obvious as this may be, many first-time planners neglect to give careful thought to their seating arrangements and requirements. Here, choosing a less expensive folding chair for the ceremony and a more comfortable stacking-style chair for the reception can result in significant cost-savings. Considering a simple cocktail hour? Ideally, you should have a place for your guests to relax and get off their feet. Nowadays, a lounge area is preferred. When it comes to the reception space, will you need tables? You can determine how many tables and their sizes by taking a look at both the venue layout and your guest count. However, there are several styles and sizes of tables from which to choose, so working with a rental coordinator can really save the day.

Here you will make decisions related to your vision in terms of wedding theme, design, and colors. The tabletop is the largest surface area in which to pull together the overall look of your inspiration. So working from the bottom up, you would start by choosing table linens or table runners and napkins to dress the tables. From there, it’s about style, form, and function for china, flatware, and glassware. With so many styles, colors, and metals to choose from, you are sure to find the perfect options to complement your wedding design. Taking the time to look at them in person and placing different selections together is very helpful. Keep in mind you do not have to provide a formal 12-piece place setting for each of your guests unless, of course, your wedding is ultra-formal, but rather select the applicable utensils and china based on your menu, and that will suffice.

Unless you have opted to serve only wine on the tables, you will be looking to outfit a bar. There is a simple formula for calculating barware (drink glasses), so you can pretty much estimate in advance. A general rule of thumb is that a guest will use one glass per hour. So, in doing the math,  a 5-hour event with 100 guests will command 500 glasses. But will you be serving just beer and wine, or will you offer a full bar? The latter will require more variety in size and style of glasses. How about the bar area? Do you have space from which to serve? Many can get by with tall linen-covered tables, however, we highly recommend upgrading to a spacious portable bar with a back bar that looks and functions like a bar should – your bartenders will thank you.

Often the bride and groom overlook the needs of their various other vendors. For example, the DJ may need a table or two, or musicians may require staging. The cake, of course, requires a table, but will you need a cake stand? And when it comes to catering items, numerous other things might come into play. Some caterers may be looking for serving platters or utensils, food warmers, and even portable ovens. A rental coordinator can address each of these areas to be sure you have considered everyone. It’s always best if we make a site visit to your venue with the other vendors. You might be surprised by what comes up! In our experience, this process gains real efficiencies in terms of what’s needed and covers all the bases.

As you can see, there are several essential items you will need to keep in mind when planning for wedding rentals. From there, budget allowing, you can take your wedding to the next level with many other enhancements. You might find sheer draping, backdrops, or arches are the perfect complement for your ceremony or head table. Perhaps you are looking for dramatic lighting or chandeliers. Whatever the case may be, AAYS expertise can help you make the right selections to fit your budget and create the wedding you always dreamt of having!

Whether you are planning a large event, intimate gathering, or a casual neighborhood get together, having a tent is a must. Here’s how and why you should include a tent rental in your budget.

First off, we know how Mother Nature can be fickle. Having shelter will protect guests from bugs, rain, snow (gasp), or the sun’s rays during the warmer months. Having a tent can also help protect your food from the elements.

A tent gives you freer rein to curate the type of event experience you’re after. For example, you can create multiple spaces within (i.e. cocktail areas, lounges, dining spaces) to allow for both form and function. Speaking of form, the beauty of tents is that they come in all shapes and sizes, so you don’t have to feel stifled that way. Regardless of the number of guests, there will always be a tent size that can accommodate it.

With a tent, you’re in control of the atmosphere. Such a feature will allow you to create any mood you want your event to evoke. For example, certain events call for a separate place for VIP guests to gather and be entertained. A tent can serve this purpose and bring an element of exclusivity to the occasion.

Tents can act as sound barriers, making the sound inside livelier and more controlled within the structure.

Lighting can take your event to the next level, and we offer a few options to shine a light on all your hard work. For example, we offer chandeliers and bistro lighting, to name a few. Creative lighting gives you the flexibility and options to bring your vision to life.

Your guests may not be looking down, but the flooring is an important addition, practically and aesthetically speaking. Depending on the atmosphere you wish to achieve, we have flooring rentals ranging from modular-interlocking to wood to carpeting.

You should also know that we offer more than just tent rentals. We are your one-stop-shop for all of your event rental needs in the Mishawaka area and beyond. While you’re on our website, check out our wide selection of tables, dinnerware, linens, and more. Or better yet, stop by our showroom and we’ll walk you through some remarkable options. We’re at the ready to help you plan and execute your next event!

There’s no bond stronger than that between family members. Family reunions are a great way to celebrate that special connection and have some fun at the same time. If you’ve taken on the task of planning such an event, read on for some helpful advice.

Time can be the single most significant factor in planning a successful event. Most party planners agree that setting a date 9 months to a year in advance is a good rule of thumb, especially if you’re planning a destination reunion during the summer months. This way, families can plan around vacations, school activities, and other obligations. And you, as the organizer can have plenty of time to sort out all the details.

Also, it’s not a bad idea to invest in a day planner to stay ahead of deadlines and track essential details. If you prefer to go the digital route, look to apps to get the job done.

Along with timing, being honest with yourself about your abilities and resources is another important factor in your ability to execute. You may volunteer to be the lead organizer, but that doesn’t mean you can’t ask for help with the details. Put a call out for help early on so people can step up and lighten the load. As the saying goes, “many hands make light work.” Plus, people will feel more invested in the outcome if they have a say in the planning.

Your choice of venue will depend a lot on your family members’ ages, style, interests, and budgets. For example, an extended family with lots of kids may look to rent a park pavilion for an afternoon. On the other hand, renting a beach house or houses for the weekend may be more appealing to an older crowd. Or maybe you simply want to set up in the back yard and host a no-fuss event. Regardless of the particulars, what matters is that people have fun!

Add your own special touch to the reunion with some swag, flair, and find ways to make new memories! For example, you could make a collage of family photos and use them as table decor. (See how far you can go back in your family tree!)

And don’t forget about entertainment! Depending on the venue, you might not need to plan much. (For example, the beach would provide endless fun.) If you’re hosting your reunion at a park, you might opt for lawn games like cornhole, ring toss, etc. For kids (and kids at heart), water balloons pack a refreshing punch.

Be sure to capture the fun, too!  You might consider booking a professional photographer for a group portrait. Photobooths are a big hit, also. If you want to send them home with something tangible, custom coffee mugs, T-shirts and the like can help keep the event alive in everyone’s memory for a long time.

Whether your family reunion is small and intimate or a large-scale affair, you’re sure to make a lasting impression. And if you pulled off a successful reunion with the help of AAYS Event Rentals, you’ll leave them excited for the next one!

You may also like this blog article: Plan a Family Reunion Your Family Will Love

Is there anything more American than the 4th of July (OK, maybe apple pie or baseball). Show your friends and family a good time with a blowout of a party this year. Not sure where to begin? Here’s a no-nonsense guide to helping you plan a fabulous 4th of July party without losing your mind.

Will it be a backyard bash, or do you prefer to take the party off-site? Some people love to host and don’t mind the extra work that can come with it. Be realistic with yourself and your limitations, and you’re sure to be the “hostess with the mostess.”

If budget allows, renting a room or facility might be an attractive option. You won’t have to landscape or worry about guests dirtying your home this way. Parking and noise pollution are other considerations. Either way, you may need to rent some staples, like tables, seating, and other catering essentials.

Also, take the uncertainty of weather conditions into consideration. You might want to have a plan B if you have an outdoor venue in mind. While you can’t predict bad weather, you can plan for such an event with the proper setup. Many of our tent rentals have sidings available that can be closed in case of wind or rain. Don’t forget to have bug spray and sunscreen on hand so guests can enjoy the outdoors freely.

It’s not a party without the grub! When you’re planning the food for any party, you’ll need to start with three main questions:

1. How much food will you serve?

2. What kind of food will you serve?

3. How will you serve the food?

How much food you need depends partly on the quantity of guests of course, but it also depends on if they’re bringing food of their own. Some people prefer a potluck dinner format, which is a great way to save time and money and allow your guests to share a family recipe. Some hosts like to provide the protein (say hamburgers/veggie burgers or BBQ) and ask the guests to bring salads, sides, desserts and/or alcoholic beverages. If this is the case, you might find it helpful to use an app to keep everything straight.

While not required, a well-executed theme can elevate a party. For example, you can play on the classic red, white, and blue motifs and incorporate a rustic, Americana theme. Decorate the tables with Mason jars filled with red and white carnations and a small American flag. Party favors, like a goody bag full of red, white and blue M&Ms are sure to be a hit. (Just be conscientious of any peanut allergies if you go with that variety.) For more ideas, be sure to check out Pinterest.

These tips and ideas are sure to help you celebrate Independence Day with a bang! For more inspiration, be sure to check out this article: How to Host a July 4th Bash that Shines as Bright as the Fireworks

Whether high school or college, graduations are an occasion to celebrate. It’s a way to bridge the gap between one chapter in your child’s life to the next. No doubt emotions run the gamut, but pride is sure to be at the top of the list. Here’s how to plan and throw a grad party that communicates just how proud you are!

Who will be on the guest list? Is this a party for only family members or will you extend the invitation to classmates and neighbors? Budget and space constraints will drive this decision.

When will you hold the party? The date and time need to be strategic, because you may need to consider summer vacations and other classmates’ parties. Regarding the latter, an open house style is best because people can come and go without feeling obligated to stay for hours and miss out on other engagements. An all-day party from noon to 6 pm may be convenient for guests who want to have the evening free.

As for the venue, you might consider transforming your backyard into party central, if space allows. Tents can provide shade and shield guests from potential rain. Plus, fresh air is never a bad thing. Don’t forget about the linens, tables, chairs, and other must-haves!

If you’d rather not host at home, alternatives include neighborhood clubhouses, local restaurants, and event venues. (Just know that you may be required to work with a specific caterer if you go this route.) You will likely need to put down a deposit to save the date, so plan accordingly.

Will the party be laid back and casual or more of a formal affair? The style and theme you select will help as you plan the other elements of your party. For example, you might opt for a Hawaiian luau theme, Mexican, or think outside the box by playing on the graduate’s future plans.

Will you send formal invitations in the mail, Facebook, or an E-vites platform to manage RSVPs? Whichever, make sure the invitation reflects the theme and communicates any important details. For example, if hosting a pool party, you’ll need to ask guests to bring towels.

Whether you enlist help or plan to give it a go, you’ll need to have a game plan. If your party is centered around a theme, like a luau or a fiesta, the food should reflect that. Think pork sandwiches on sweet rolls, pineapple, and mango dip, and a taco bar for the latter. If you don’t have a particular theme in mind, a meat and cheese platter and veggie tray are classic standbys. The same goes for chips and dip.

Balloons, streamers, and flowers are safe bets. If you have a theme, plan your decorations based mainly around the theme. For instance, a class themed party will call for incorporating school colors OR the upcoming collegiate institution’s colors. But you don’t have to stop here. Some parents like to break out the baby pictures or home videos. (Just make sure to clear it with the graduate to avoid any unintentional embarrassment).

Will there be a live band to entertain your guests? Are you using a DJ for your party? Maybe it’s as simple as a speaker and your favorite playlist? Summer schedules fill up fast, so you’ll need to make a deposit as soon as you have a date set.

For more, check out our Budget-friendly Graduation Party Ideas blog article!

ALSO – AAYS has tent rentals for pickup and drop-off! Download our DIY Tent Setup Instructions and plan to do it yourself – so easy!

After a long winter, a spring celebration is in order. And Easter is the perfect occasion to gather friends and family for food, drink, and laughter. Here’s how to plan an Easter brunch to rival Martha Stewart—and do it without a lot of stress.

Church goers will likely have services in the morning, so you need to make sure your timeline accommodates those plans. Talk with your potential guests to create a rough schedule. A 11 am or noon start time should work for a brunch, since it will allow people to fulfill their religious and family obligations and work up an appetite!

Will it be an intimate group or a larger gathering? It’s really up to you (and any space constraints, of course.) Pressed for time? Make your life a little easier by using e-vites. Many services allow for customization and are intuitive to use.

Once you have RSVPs for your brunch, sit down and create a menu and grocery list based on the guests and their age, preferences and dietary restrictions. (For example, when catering to kids you might consider finger foods and nothing too rich. Lactose intolerant or gluten-free people may require special dishes.)

Regardless of the variety or extent of your menu, the secret behind every poised host or hostess is making dishes in advance, when possible. After all, you don’t want to feel rushed on Easter morning. Consider the following fabulous make-ahead options:

• Quiche (vegetarian and/or meat-filled)
• Cinnamon rolls
• Fruit salad
• Sweet potato breakfast casserole
• Parfaits
• Mimosas

So, clear your schedule Saturday afternoon and you’ll be glad you divided up the work.

Nothing motivates homeowners to clean house like hosting a party. If time allows, give your home the weekly treatment the day before or bring in help if the job is too overwhelming.

Once you check this off your list, it’s time to set up for the brunch. We highly recommend renting the china, flatware, glassware, and even the linens! Imagine how a spring-themed tablecloth or runner can add real zest to your tablescape. This makes clean-up a breeze! Simply rinse and you’re done.

With a little planning, it’s possible to host a high-end celebration your guests will love without hours of work and last-minute headaches. Whether a large or small gathering, AAYS is certain to have the rental pieces you desire so you can focus on enjoying your guests.

Whether you’re a wee bit Irish or don’t claim any Irish ancestry at all, you can still enjoy the fun of planning a St. Paddy’s Day themed party. We’ve got everything covered, from A to Z. Whether you’re planning a small get-together with a few friends or a neighborhood block party, you’ll find some inspiration here. Let’s get started!

Set the mood with some fun decor. There’s no need to go crazy, but some green party cups, a string of shamrocks and an eye-catching wreath or door decoration will help set the mood.

Floral pieces can bring an element of class to the party. For the dinner table, consider a green or green-and-white arrangement. Bonus, if you can somehow incorporate the Spring Squill, a blue, star-shaped flower that is native to Ireland.

What would a St. Patrick’s Day party be without adult beverages of some kind! Your first choice should be a keg of Guinness, of course. (Forget the green beer.)  You might want to read up on how to pour a pint, as it’s both an art and a science.

If beer isn’t your bag, consider novelty cocktails. Staying with the green theme, consider adding Crème de Menthe, Apple Liqueur or even a classic Mojito to the menu. For flavors, pull in sweet flavor profiles like kiwi, lime, mint, and apple.

A good host or hostess knows how to take the party to the next level with food. We suggest dazzling them with desserts. If you’re a baker, you might make a batch of shamrock cookies (or have the catered by your local bakery). Shamrock shake cupcakes are sure to be a hit, too. Boozy Guinness cupcakes will no doubt appeal to guests who enjoy both beer and sweets.

Get your guests in the mood with some lively Irish tunes. Pro tip: Tourism Ireland released the ultimate St. Patty’s Day playlist on Spotify that you can stream for free. Amazon Prime members might find a selection of curated favorites from the Emerald Isle as well.

Invite your friends in style with either an email invitation or printed postcard. Whether you go electronic or traditional will depend on the formality of the event and the preferences of your guests. (For example, older guests may prefer a paper invitation instead of an email.)

As always, don’t forget we’re here to help take some of the stress out of party planning with our selection of items available for rent.