Frequently Asked Questions

Total Party Planning understands that planning an event can be a daunting task, but we strive to make it as smooth and easy as possible.  Take a look below at our FAQ and see some commonly asked questions regarding the rental of tents, tables and chairs.

Do I need to set everything up?

No. We will setup tents, concession equipment and high-top tables. The customer is responsible for the setup of the tables and chairs. We do, however, offer a setup service for tables and chairs for a fee. Just ask your sales representative for rates.

When is my delivery/pickup?

Rentals are very complicated and a lot of logistics go into each and every delivery and pickup. Some examples of this would be weather, other jobs in the area or damaged inventory. We will inform each customer ONE week prior to your event on which day your rental will be delivered. Total Party Planning asks that your yard is prepped, clear of dog messes and ready for us to erect your tent TWO days prior to your event. Pickup will be 1-2 post event.

What time will my delivery/pickup be?

We operate very much like a parcel delivery company. TPP is unable to give you an exact time when we will be at your venue due to traffic patterns, weather events, or unexpected obstacles at a prior delivery. Our arrivals will be within a window of 9am – 7pm, unless there are unforeseen circumstances beyond our control. The pickup window is the same as the delivery window.

What if I can’t be home during delivery or pickup?

We completely understand and respect that you are busy prepping for an event. You are not required to be home when we arrive. Make sure we have access to where the tent if you cannot be home and that the area is clearly marked (use anything: soccer balls, bricks, sticks ect.). If nothing is marked, our staff is very experienced and will use their best judgement regarding placement. If you have special instructions, instruct your sales representative so they can make a note on your contract. We will not make a return visit to move a tent or equipment. If you must be home, make sure someone is there during the delivery window (9am-7pm) or you may incur addition waiting fees. Same policy regarding pickups.

What do I do if there is an issue regarding my equipment?

If it is during business hours, you can call us or send an email and we will address any issue or question you have. During non-business hours, send us and email, we monitor all emails afterhours, and if something that is urgent, leave us a detailed description and we will contact you back ASAP to get it resolved.

What is the difference between a frame, pinnacle and pole tent?

  • A frame tent is a free standing structure that does not require ropes to give it strength. Frame tents have no center poles and provide more open space underneath. It can be placed in grass and secured with stakes, or can be placed on a hard surfaces like driveways or parking lots and secured with water barrels. Frame tents only require and additional 2 feet outside the dimensions of the tent size.
  • A pinnacle tent is similar to a frame tent, except is has a high, sloping peak to it and requires additional height clearance.
  • A pole tent is most commonly used in backyards and can only be setup on grass surfaces. It requires and additional 5 feet on all sides of the tent for the ropes and stakes to put tension on the center poles. For example, a 20′ x 30′ pole tent would require an open, unobstructed flat area of 30′ x 40′.

Can I choose to pickup my order?

We currently do not offer pickups.

Do you offer same day setup/pickups?

Yes. However, call us for details, pricing and availability.

How and when do I pay?

To secure your reservation, a non-refundable $100 deposit is required on all orders under $1500, and a $500 non-refundable deposit on all orders over $1500. The balance of the order is due seven (7) business days prior to delivery. For established event professionals, we offer a house account option and waive all deposits. We accept the following forms of payment: cash, personal and business checks, Visa, MasterCard, American Express and Discover.

What is your cancellation policy?

To ensure availability of all services and products, deposits are non-refundable. You may remove one or more item(s) from your order, or cancel your entire order, according to the following schedule, but the following cancellation fees will apply, subject to any category-specific cancellation policies:

  • 8 days prior: no cancellation fee
  • 7 days prior: 10% of contract total, less deposit (if refundable)
  • 2 days prior: 50% of contract total, less deposit (if refundable)

Days prior refers to the number of days before the earliest delivery/pickup/setup/arrival time.

Do you setup when it is raining?

Yes, we setup rain or shine, as long as there is not a thunderstorm in the area!

What if my backyard is flooded from rain?

Cancellation policies are still effect. If your yard is prone to flooding, please make sure you have a contingency plan in place. We will do our best to accommodate you, and help you make sure your event goes as planned.

Still have questions?  Send us and email or give us a call!