Tips for Renting China for Your Wedding

The smallest details make a wedding truly beautiful when they're all pulled together, and one of these little details is the china. If a couple doesn't want to buy a set of china to use to serve their guests (they'll probably be getting a set as a gift anyway), there is the popular option of renting china. Renting costs much less and can still make the wedding beautiful in every way.

Consider the size. It's important to consider the sizes of the plates you'll be using at the wedding. For instance, if you are having a late evening wedding and reception, you should consider using smaller plates if only appetizers are being served. On the other hand, if you are having an early dinner with a full buffet, you might want to use larger plates. By factoring the kind of meal that will be served at the reception and then determining the size of the plates needed, you'll definitely choose the right size plates.Ask friends and family members. Some friends and family members may be open to renting their china to you. Ask around, you just may be pleasantly surprised to find that someone in your immediate family may be open to this type of arrangement. If you go this route, make sure that you follow protocol by filling out a written contract with them which indicates what specific items you're renting, how much you're being charged, when they are expected back, how long you will keep them, and what should happen if damage occurs.

Check with the caterer. Many caterers offer china rental options and would be happy to rent equipment to you. Not only is this convenient, because it enables companies to use their own china as they plate up the food to be served. Be sure to check in advance, because there may be a waiting list for such equipment. Once you both agree, take a look at20the available china to be sure it will work well with the wedding and reception themes. Check with the reception hall. In some cases, the reception hall rents equipment to serve their wedding guests. Ask your reception hall if this is an option and whether or not china is available from the company. This may save a few dollars as the company may be willing to rent the china at a discount to those individuals who purchase rental space from their facilities.

Rent the china locally. Even if you're unable to get the china from the caterer, try to rent it locally. This will reduce the chances of the china getting broken, and the bride and groom having to pay to replace pieces. In most instances, you'll be required to pick up and return the china after the wedding.

Enlist a helper to inspect the china when it arrives. You may even want to take pictures if there are any chips or cracks when the china arrives. This will protect you when it's time to send it back. If the company has no documentation of the chips or cracks before the wedding, they may charge for the pieces that are chipped or cracked. If there are any chips, cracks, scuffs or other marks, make a note of them and the pieces they are on. Enlist a helper to do this so that you can focus on other things. You may want to have the helper check the china after the wedding is over and return it to the vendor or relative who rented it to you. This way, you can concentrate on such things like your honeymoon and enjoying your new married status.

Resource

• Rental HQ
• A1 Party Rental
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