We asked, they answered. Industry pros weighed in on the question: What do you wish you could rent? From a multifaceted popcorn machine to theme-park rides—not to mention the White House—here's what planners wish they could find on the rentals market.
"A gourmet popcorn machine that can make several delicious flavors, like chocolate, gouda, and maybe a chile-spiced flavor. Also, [I'd like to rent] unusual arches or entryways to place at the entrance that I could customize with colors and the name of the event. It's a nice way to make a great impact right when attendees show up, but oftentimes too expensive to build for a one-off event.
—Blume Bauer, co-owner and siren, Siren Song Productions
"More arbors or chuppahs. The ones typically for rent are standard-issue, and usually white, so the couples end up making them. The handmade ones are usually not grounded in any physics, stability, or durability. It's always a problem, and usually we are not able to hang the flowers or the lights as planned. Sometimes due to terrain, they cannot even be used where the ceremony was intended. This is my biggest headache with any wedding, and it seems that someone could make a living just providing custom arbors."
—Fabienne Laveau, owner, designer, and stylist, The Wedding Muse
"Attendees."
—Jessica Levin, president and chief connector, Seven Degrees Communication
"Rides from theme parks, [such as] Pirates of the Caribbean at Disney."
—A rep from Custom Events L.L.C.
"A food truck that a caterer can use to cook out of—not an existing, themed truck."
—Brett Clugston, owner, Hope by Brett Marketing & PR
“I wish there were better options in the lighting category. We get lots of requests for lamps with no cords that clients could use for table centerpieces and chandeliers. Chandeliers are very labor-intensive and expensive, and I wish someone made one that looked amazing but was lightweight and easy to install.”
—Josh Madans, president, Suite 206 Luxury Event Rentals
"I wish the White House was a available for rentals. It would definitely be a historical moment to plan an event in the West or East Wing. Guest can enjoy the beautiful decor, Rose Garden room, Roosevelt room, family theater. Also, since the White House is so charming, I would save money on decor."
—Maggy Francois, founder and executive director of special events, Maggy Francois L.L.C.
Editor's note: Some of these comments were shared by readers on our social media networks. Join our discussions on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, and Google Plus.
