Rentals Checklist

Wedding Blog: Tales of a Planner

Wedding Ideas and Planning Tips from Industry Professionals here at Ybarra Events

Wedding planners are more than just event planners. We're designers, problem-solvers, coordinators, budgeteers, part-time therapists, and friends to the couples and families who are entrusting us to help them with their events. Since we're on friendly terms now, here are some tips and tricks to the trade of navigating wedding planning! 

Essential Rentals for Your Dream Wedding


Planning a wedding can be both exciting and overwhelming. One of the most crucial aspects to consider is the rentals you'll need to create the perfect atmosphere for your big day. From the ceremony to the reception, here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the essential rentals for your wedding. As you look through the list, please consider what items your venue already provides, as the necessities vary greatly. 

updated: 10-08-2024

1. Tent Rentals

If you’re having an outdoor wedding, a tent is a must. Tents provide shelter from the elements, whether it’s sun or rain. Choose from various styles, such as pole tents, frame tents, or clear-top tents, to match your wedding aesthetic. Don’t forget to consider flooring options for added comfort and style!


2. Table and Chair Rentals

Seating is vital for your guests’ comfort. Opt for tables and chairs that fit your theme—whether it's rustic, elegant, or modern. Consider various styles, such as round tables for intimate gatherings or long banquet tables for a communal feel. Don’t forget to rent linens that complement your color scheme!


3. Dinnerware and Glassware

Your dinnerware and glassware set the tone for the dining experience. Consider renting plates, silverware, and glassware that match your wedding theme. Specialty items like charger plates or vintage glassware can add a unique touch to your tablescape.

4. Lighting Rentals

Lighting can transform a venue, creating ambiance and highlighting key areas. Consider renting string lights, lanterns, or uplighting to enhance the atmosphere. Don’t forget about dance floor lighting to keep the celebration lively!


5. Audio-Visual Equipment

If you plan on having speeches, music, or a slideshow, renting audio-visual equipment is essential. Consider microphones, speakers, and projectors to ensure everyone can hear and see everything clearly.


6. Decor Rentals

From centerpieces to backdrops, decor rentals can elevate your wedding’s aesthetic. Look into renting items like floral arrangements, candles, vases, and decorative props. This is a great way to achieve a curated look without breaking the bank.


7. Bar Rentals

If you’re planning on serving alcohol, consider renting a bar setup. This could be a traditional bar, a rustic cart, or even a stylish beverage station. Make sure to include bar stools and appropriate glassware for cocktails.


8. Dance Floor Rentals

If your venue doesn’t have a designated dance area, renting a dance floor is a great idea. Consider the size and style that fits your guest count and theme. A beautiful dance floor can become a focal point of your reception!


9. Restroom Trailers

For outdoor weddings, especially in remote locations, renting restroom trailers can enhance guest comfort. These upscale units provide a clean and convenient option, often with amenities like running water and air conditioning.


10. Heating and Cooling Rentals

Depending on the season, you may need to consider heating or cooling options. Renting heaters for chilly evenings or fans for hot days can keep your guests comfortable throughout the event.

    More Wedding Articles

    Questions for a DJ or Band before Booking


    Overwhelmed at the thought of interviewing another wedding vendor? We've got your back! We have compiled a list of our top questions to ask a Wedding DJ to see if they're right for you.  


    Learn More!

    More Weddings by Ybarra Events


    Can't get enough? If you want to check out more Wedding Photos from our events, click the link below! 


    Learn More!

    Advice for your Backyard Wedding


    Getting married at home sounds like a great option if you have beautiful property, but there are a lot of logistics you should think about before making the decision. Is it right for you? 


    Learn More!

    Wedding Flowers Checklist


    It's hard to know what you should be asking for in Floral quotes if you've never planned a wedding. Here is a checklist of Flowers you should consider for your wedding day. 


    Learn More!

    What exactly is Eloping?


    If you're like most wedding couples, you may not have much experience planning weddings. The terminology can be confusing. Tiny Wedding, Eloping, is there a difference? There is! Find out which is right for you. 


    Learn More!

    Indian Wedding Traditions


    Are you attending a Hindu Wedding Ceremony and not sure of what to expect? We're here to help, from what to wear, to what traditions take place. 


    Learn More!

    About the Author: 

    Tara Ybarra, Co-Owner and Event Planner for Ybarra Events, has been in the Wedding Industry for over 20 years. From Photographer, to Wedding Cake Artist, to Florist, to Officiant, and now Wedding Planner, her accumilated experience, paired with her College Courses in Event Planning, have given her the experience she has today. Blogging gives her an opportunity to share that knowledge with her readers. 


    Ybarra Events is located in California’s spectacular Napa Valley. Ybarra Events are the pièce de résistance of wedding planners. Run by the dynamic duo of Tara and James Ybarra, they help couples organize, design, and plan their nuptials at some of the most fabulous and luxurious wedding venues in Napa, Sonoma, San Francisco, and Beyond. Chat with them today to start planning the wine-country wedding of your dreams.

    How are the Vaccinations going to effect my Wedding?


    There are still a lot of unknowns and uncertainty out there, but things are definitely looking up! The vaccinations are being distributed and we are inching closer to herd immunity. There are many things to consider while planning a gathering. 


    Learn More! 

    60 Questions for a Wedding Photographer 


    Hiring wedding vendors can be a daunting task. We have complied a list of our favorite questions to ask photographers when we are vetting them for your wedding. Not only is it important for them to be available for your date, you want their personalities to flow with yours too! 


    Learn More!

    Wedding Couples & the uninvited COVID-19


    2020 was a rough year. If you're like a lot of other engagements out there, you have an additional wedding planning debacle: COVID-19. We know how hard this has been and we are all hurting, but we can draw strength and knowledge from each other. See how are other couples are handling their postponements. 


    Learn More!

    Is Tiny where the future of Weddings is headed? 


    As the pandemic circulates the globe, more and more events are lowering their guestcounts. Are weddings any different? With the gathering size limitations, we will have to adapt, but the good news is, initmate weddings come with wonderful side effects. 


    Learn more!

    110 Must-Take Wedding Photos


    There are so many lovely wedding photo ideas out there, and Pinterest just adds to the wish list! If you'd like a quick and easy list of all of the photos you don't want to miss, we are happy oblige!


    Learn More!

    What does a Wedding Planner do?


    It's a common and fair question. You should always know what the tasks are for a vendor you're hiring, and it's probably the more common questions I am asked. What is it that a wedding planner handles throughout the day? Well, quite a lot! Every event is different, even between weddings, but I have decided to address this question on a more public level. Read more to see a breakdown of the tasks of a wedding planner on your wedding day. 


    Learn More!

    How to host your Virtual Wedding


    This year has proven to be challenging, with weddings and gatherings postponed or cancelled. Virtual Weddings are a safe alternative to share your elopement with your loved ones. 


    Learn More!

    Is a 1st Look Right for You?


    Weighing the option of doing away with the tradition of not seeing each other until walking down the aisle? Read about the pros and cons of a First Look from a wedding professional's persective 


    Learn More!

    "Wish You Were Here Box"


    It's difficult getting married without your loved ones there. Why not give them a customized Virtual Wedding experience they will cherish! You can send them a tailored box of wedding goodies that will make them feel like they're with you! 


    Learn More!