Planning an event involves countless details, especially when it comes to Furniture Hire. Here are some essential questions to consider before placing your Event Furniture Hire Order.
1. Where Is My Event Taking Place?
My Event Is Taking Place in a Outdoor Marquee.
Is there a marquee, and will it be set up prior to the event furniture hire delivery?
Please ensure that the marquee is set up in advance to the furniture delivery as this is crucial to ensure everything goes smoothly with your booking.
Can the delivery trucks pull up close to the marquee or will the delivery team need to set up ground protection for the lawn, grassed area? Ground Protection can be provided at an additional cost.
Consider the terrain. If trucks can’t drive up to the marquee, you may need ground protection such as protract, pro-flooring or plywood pathways to prevent lawn damage and facilitate easier transport of heavy items.
Please provide a site plan and delivery schedule to ensure all hire items end up in the right locations. A staff member from Big Dog Event Group will work closely with you or you production/event manager to ensure smooth delivery of all furniture hire onsite.
What time will the marquee be taken down? Can the Big Dog Event Group pick up the rental items before then?
Coordinate with your marquee provider to ensure that the rental items can be picked up before the marquee is dismantled onsite.
Do all of the Furniture Hire products need to be protected from the weather?
Weather protection is important but at the Big Dog Event Group we have a huge selection of hire items that can be used indoors and outdoors. Ensure all items are covered and safeguarded against the elements such as wind and storms to protect damages to the hire products.
Is there a site plan and floor plan available pre-event ?
A floor plan and site plan help our delivery team place items accurately and efficiently when onsite. If you need assistance with drawing a floor plan or site plan, please speak to one of our friendly staff at the Big Dog.
Do I need permits if the marquee is set up on private property?
Permits may be needed for marquees set up in public spaces. Rule of thumb in Victoria is that if your event is on public land you will need to contact your local council for and Event Permit and possibly a POPE Permit as well as a sitting application for all prescribed marquees greater than 100m2 on site. At the Big Dog we work with many local councils and are always happy to offer advice based on our years of event experience. Please check with the local council and their regulations for outdoor events to avoid any last-minute hassles or headaches.
If there is kitchen equipment, where would I like it set up (back wall of the tent?)
Plan the layout for kitchen equipment. Typically, setting up along the back wall maximizes space and accessibility.
Will I have Sinks and Toilets?
Ensure a water source must be available (i.e., garden hose, tap). Are drums or portable waste tanks needed onsite for grey water or is there a sullage point onsite.
Always consider how wastewater will be managed onsite. If you event is a multi-day event, then speak directly with your Toilet and Catering Equipment supplier to see if a pump out of wastewater is required based on patron and guest numbers.
Do I need cooking equipment, prep tables, passing trays, coffee service, and chinaware in the kitchen marquee?
List all kitchen essentials you’ll need. Think about cooking, preparation, serving, and cleanup.
Does the dance floor need a hard level surface?
A level surface is crucial for all dance floors. Plywood might be necessary to provide stability and safety for your guests.
Do I need fire extinguishers?
Fire safety is paramount, and the Big Dog takes fire safety seriously. If you have cooking equipment, gas appliances then fire extinguishers and fire blankets will be required. If you marquee requires a Place of Public Entertainment Permit or is greater than 100m2 fire extinguisher will be provided by your marquee supplier under their Victorian Building Authority Occupancy Permit. It is better to be safe than sorry so ensure you have a fire extinguisher on hand.
Are there any special instructions for the furniture hire delivery and pick-up teams?
Clear, specific instructions help avoid confusion and ensure a seamless setup and bump-out. Any floor plans and site maps will help the Big Dog Event Group deliver and collect your furniture hire items from site.
My Furniture Hire Is Taking Place in a City Building
Are there stairs involved? Is all the Furniture Hire being delivered to the same floor?
Determine if there are stairs or elevators and ensure everything is delivered to the correct floor. If your Furniture Hire involves stairs for the delivery and collection then additional charges will apply to your Final Order.
Is the loading dock address the correct delivery address? If so, what are the loading dock hours?
Verify the loading dock details and operating hours to avoid delivery issues.
Know the type of elevator available for transporting your rental items. Will my large tables or display items fit in the elevator? 8’-10’ tables may require confirmation from the building/venue. Check the elevator dimensions to ensure large tables can be accommodated.
Does the building/venue require a copy of the Big Dog Public Liability Insurance and OHS documents.?
Some buildings, venues, local councils, and businesses require a Certificate of Insurance (COI) or a copy of Public Liability (PLI) and all OHS documents such as JSA and SWMS documentation. Confirm these requirements with the venue or local council and we are more than happy to provide all documentation to you in advance.
Is there enough power for the electrical equipment?
Assess the power availability to ensure it meets the needs of your equipment.
Are there any special instructions for the Big Dog event rental delivery and pick-up teams?
Provide detailed instructions to facilitate smooth delivery and collection.
My Furniture Hire Is Taking Place at a Residence.
Someone must be home to accept the delivery. Be sure to confirm delivery and pickup times with the Big Dog Event Group when placing your order.
Will the truck fit in the driveway?
Check if the delivery truck can access the driveway or if alternative arrangements are needed.
Where will the Furniture Hire items be delivered?
Specify the exact delivery address and also the location within the property of where all furniture hire items are to be delivered.
Are there any special instructions for the Furniture Hire delivery and collection team?
Give any specific directions to make the delivery and collection process easier.
Are there any stairs?
No one likes stairs at the best of time but especially when delivering furniture hire. If there are stairs that might complicate the delivery, please talk with our staff in advance and we would be happy to discuss or visit your site to see how best this might be approached.
Do tables need to be set up and broken down?
Decide if you need help with setting up and breaking down tables. If the Big Dog assists with set up of furniture hire, then an additional charge may apply. Speak with our staff to discuss your set-up and pack-up requirements.
The dance floor must have a hard level surface?
A level surface is crucial for the dance floor. Plywood might be necessary to provide stability and safety for your guests.
Do I need fire extinguishers?
Fire safety is paramount, and the Big Dog takes fire safety seriously. If you have cooking equipment, gas appliances then fire extinguishers and fire blankets will be required. If your marquee is greater than 100m2 fire extinguisher will be provided by your marquee supplier under their Victorian Building Authority Occupancy Permi. It is better to be safe than sorry ensure you have fire extinguishers on hand regardless.
Are there any special instructions for the furniture hire l delivery and pick-up teams?
Clear, specific instructions help avoid confusion and ensure a seamless setup and bump-out. Any floor plans and site maps will help the Big Dog Event Group deliver and collect your furniture hire items from site.
My Furniture Hire Is Taking Place at a Local Park, Beach
What are the operating hours? Is an escort required? Is a map available?
After Checking the park or beach operating hours also ask the local council or Park and Gardens if they require pesonal to escort suppliers and trucks to the event location, and if a map is available for directions.
Can the delivery truck park close to where the event will be set up?
Determine the proximity of parking to the setup area to facilitate easy transport of furniture hire items as well as parking options for your guests when they arrive. Contact with your local council may be required to implement blocking off parking spaces for delivery truck or implementing a traffic management plan, depending on your event size and scale.
Will there be sand?
Event rentals will need to be secured from theft and protected from weather as well as providing security onsite if the event is a multi-day event. If the event is on sand, ensure rentals are secured and protected from the elements as well as theft.
Will I have Sinks and Toilets?
Ensure a water source must be available (i.e., garden hose, tap). Are drums or portable waste tanks needed onsite for grey water or is there a sullage point onsite.
Always consider how wastewater will be managed onsite. If you event is a multi-day event, then speak directly with your Toilet and Catering Equipment supplier to see if a pump out of wastewater is required based on patron and guest numbers.
Do I need cooking equipment, prep tables, passing trays, coffee service, and chinaware in the kitchen marquee?
List all kitchen essentials you’ll need. Think about cooking, preparation, serving, and cleanup.
The dance floor must have a hard level surface?
A level surface is crucial for the dance floor. Plywood might be necessary to provide stability and safety for your guests.
Do I need fire extinguishers?
Fire safety is paramount, and the Big Dog takes fire safety seriously. If you have cooking equipment, gas appliances then fire extinguishers and fire blankets will be required. If you marquee requires a Place of Public Entertainment Permit or is greater than 100m2 fire extinguisher will be provided by your marquee supplier under their Victorian Building Authority Occupancy Permit. It is better to be safe than sorry so ensure you have a fire extinguisher on hand.
Are there any special instructions for the furniture hire delivery and pick-up teams?
Clear, specific instructions help avoid confusion and ensure a seamless setup and bump-out. Any floor plans and site maps will help the Big Dog Event Group deliver and collect your furniture hire items from site.
2. How Much Space Do I Need?
Dinner gatherings typically require a minimum 1.8 square meters per guest. For instance, if you’re expecting 150 attendees, you’d ideally want a space approximately 10 meters in width by 30 meters in length. Naturally, these measurements can vary based on factors like table sizes and the inclusion of a dance floor and staging. Cocktail parties generally need about half that space. Please contact our staff to discuss your size requirements and we would be more than happy to provide a rough floor plan based on your event requirements.
3. Who Will Set Up the Furniture Hire ?
There are several types of delivery services available at the Big Dog Event Group, based on the time, location, and distance if it’s outside of our service area. We offer a variety of additional services and are happy to assist with chair or table set-up and break down at an additional cost. Some of our furniture hire items need to be set-up by our Big Dog Staff and this cost is already included within the hire item price.
4. Will the Event Have a Buffet or Seated Service?
Buffet-Style Service
For a buffet-style service, we suggest arranging a diverse selection of tables and serving stations to craft an inviting and easily navigable layout. Consider offering a range of seating choices, including cocktail tables and casual seating arrangements to promote socializing. Be sure you have an ample supply of flatware, plates, and serving utensils for the convenience of self-service.
Seated Service
For a sit-down dinner, focus on elegant table settings with formal dinnerware, glassware, and comfortable seating. Consider adding luxe table linens and chargers to add a touch of sophistication to each place setting.
5. How Many Guests Will Be Attending?
It’s always best to start your event rental order as soon as possible, to secure the products you want to hire. When you first start your rental order, you’ll likely have an estimate for your guest count rather than a solid number to start with. That’s totally okay. You can revise your rental order up to 14 business days before the delivery date.
6. What Furniture Hire Products Will I Need for my Event?
Planning an event can be a thrilling yet daunting task. One crucial aspect is selecting the right furniture to ensure your event is comfortable, stylish, and functional.
The perfect event involves many details, with the right furniture hire products. Think about your event’s theme, the comfort of your guests, and the practical aspects of the venue when selecting your furniture hire.
Asking the right questions before placing your rental order can make a significant difference in ensuring your event runs smoothly. By planning and considering all the variables, you can create a memorable experience for your guests without any last-minute surprises. Get in contact with the Big Dog Event Group today to commence planning your furniture hire requirements.
Good Luck and Happy Planning
Regards
The Big Dog Events Team
