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Let's face it, Florida weather is fickle AF!

We totally get it – you love Cypress Grove Estate House because of the gorgeous tree-lined street, the lakeside gazebo, and dancing under the market lights 😍 

All of that sounds lovely, until… BOOM. The thunder rolls in and the rain starts to fall.

So, how can you prepare and protect your investment? Reserve a tent, especially since they’re the only back-up at Cypress Grove. Now, before you roll your eyes or tell us about the historical data you pulled up on Google, humor us a bit and consider why we think a tent is so important:

It’s basically an insurance plan. Think about it – what are you going to do if you don’t have a tent reserved and rain shows up in the forecast day of?

The tent protects all the elements of the big day – your decor, your cake, your vendor’s equipment, but most importantly, it keeps you and your guests dry + comfortable. After all, no one wants a soggy bottom (yes, that’s a Paul Hollywood reference if you’re a Great British Baking Show fan 😜).

The Details

Now that you’ve considered the why behind the tent, it’s time to talk about the details:

  1. Size matters! The size of the tent should account for the total experience of the wedding. The food, décor, table type, bar, dinner service, and maximum guest count should all be considered when choosing a size.
  2. The add-ons. Yes, the costs can add up fast, but so can the stress of not preparing for things like side walls (great for blocking rain and wind), lighting (a must for evening/night time events), flooring, dance floors, etc.
  3. Type of tent. Make sure the type of tent ordered complements not only your style, but the season as well. A clear tent in summer months = a green house without air conditioning 🥵 
  4. Logistics. Remember: you’ve only rented the facility for a day. Therefore, everything you’re planning needs to be installed and removed the same day.
  5. When to reserve. NOW. The industry is experiencing an influx in events and weddings. Due to this, dates are selling out faster than normal. Waiting until the month or even the week of to confirm your tent will likely leave you with little availability or having to settle for whatever is left in stock.

What About the Ceremony and Cocktail Hour?

The big question… where do we have the ceremony and cocktail hour if it’s raining?

If the rain does decide to make an appearance day-of, our ‘Plan B’ option is to set-up the entire event under the tent. Guests are seated at their tables for a clear view of the altar, usually placed in the center of the space. They’ll continue to mingle in this space during cocktail hour, which makes an easy transition into the reception.

Best case scenario, we get a break in the rain and can do a standing ceremony by the gazebo. Afterwards, guests can grab a drink from the bar and explore the grounds before heading back to the tent for dinner.

Worried about the tent being unappealing? They don’t have to be an eyesore and can actually be a gorgeous addition to the wedding experience. They often times even lend to the comfort of you and your guests (whether it’s to shield from rain and wind or keep heat in during colder months)! 

With a little draping here and there, some floral, and ambiance lighting, you can make a tent look like it was part of the plan from the get-go instead of a last minute back-up option. 

Venue: Cypress Grove Estate House
Planner: Melanie Paige Events
Dessert: Bakers Cottage Cakes
Ceremony Music: Classern Quartet
Reception Entertainment: The Copper Piano
Floral: Flowers by Lesley
Reception Chairs & Shelving: RW Events
Tabletop: Treasury Rentals
Tent: Rentaland Tents & Events
Photography: 28 North
Videography: The Garrs