Author: Amazing News Editor

Are you Festival-ready?

Wednesday 03 May 2023 by Amazing News Editor

We know from the damp, wet, and cold start to this year that the great British weather isn’t always reliable or what we might be hoping for. Whichever festival or outdoor event you’ve bought tickets for this year, be prepared for more than just a shower of rain. Take your waterproofs and wellies, and if you’re camping – check your tent for leaks!  

Another little festival tip we have, is to stay connected with friends… consider a ‘meeting place’, these festivals are busy and it’s not uncommon to lose one another. Work out where your tent or base for the day is, by establishing site landmarks – SaddleSpans are often the eye-catching and unique landmark within a festival site. Just sayin’! 

If you’re a festival organiser, you probably know all of this – alongside the extra things you need to consider for being on-site. Since you practically live in a field for a month or more! That said, our top tip is to always ensure you choose a venue space that allows plenty of room for setting up. Once you’ve found a suitable space this is our checklist: 

  • Capacity – How many people can you accommodate? SaddleSpans can accommodate from 175 to 3700 people. We’ll have something to suit your needs. 
  • Space – Music Festivals take up a lot of space! Once you have factored in stages, backstage areas for talent, car parking, food concessions and space for your guests to enjoy the entertainment, you need to ensure that the venue can accommodate the scale of your festival or event. Visit and check it out – we’re always happy to go along to a site visit, to help avoid potential issues further down the line. 
  • Existing Infrastructure – is there access to toilets, cafes, restaurants, etc. If not – you’ll need more temporary structures. 
  • Disability access – we believe that live music and festivals are for everyone. If you have additional access needs, be sure to check out the festival’s commitment to disabled access; you’ll find that this is taken very seriously and a great deal of effort is put in to ensure an enjoyable and fully inclusive experience for all. We always ensure that Disability Discrimination Act is followed, so that access is considered for everyone at an event or festival. 
  • Permits. What permits (if any) are required from the council and are there any considerations they may inhibit you from running the event (i.e. alcohol licence, noise restrictions, etc.). 

So, if you’ve not got all your event spaces covered for your 2023, or even 2024, festival or event, give us a call now: +44 (0)7778 835 207 / enquiries@amazingtent.co.uk 

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Sprucing up your event tent for Spring

Wednesday 05 April 2023 by Amazing News Editor

The dark winter months are finally behind us. As we welcome the longer days and lighter evenings, our thoughts are turning to sprucing up Saddlespans for the fast-approaching Spring and Summer events. 

Bring in the light – as the weather improves, the option of not having sides on the Saddlespans at events is a popular one. It means that the light inside and under the canopy is increased, reducing the need for artificial lighting for daytime events. Of course, if your event transitions from daytime to evening, the sides can be re-introduced to emphasise any lighting effects for a night–time event. 

Freshen up – the Spring months inspire a brighter, cleaner look for events. Think about bringing florals, patterns, or pastels in to your décor. Also, if you decide to remove the sides of the Saddlespan, it means your design choices can flow from inside to the outside space too. This can create a larger area to accommodate your clients and guests, promote your message, or launch your product.  

Make a statement – if you want to really stand out from the crowd, there is always the option to brand the Saddlespan exterior too. It will give you optimal brand exposure – especially on a site with multiple exhibitors or at a public site such as a festival. There are several areas on the tent that you can brand, including the sides and banners under the front of the curve. 

So, whilst we give our Saddlespans a good Spring clean ready for our busiest time of the year, consider how you can give your event a makeover. We’re happy to chat your ideas over and recommend any partner organisations within the events industry who may be able to help you too.  

Get in touch today:  +44 (0)7778 835 207 / enquiries@amazingtent.co.uk

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Top tips for event planning

Thursday 02 March 2023 by Amazing News Editor

We’ve been in the events business for decades, so we have a lot of experience when it comes to planning events. It’s not too late to prepare for 2023 but ideally, as you’ll see from our first tip, organising events for 2024 can start now!

· There’s no such thing as starting to plan too early! Start planning and organising NOW.

· We love a production schedule. Creating a schedule or a timeline to help you see where you are on your planning journey is a real help for an ‘at a glance’ check. Make sure everyone involved in your event has access to a copy.

· Ensure that you, or your client has a clear and specific goal or outcome for the event. What is the purpose? That might be as simple as a great party, or it could be a product launch, whatever your event is, you need to target the look and audience carefully. Ensure this is clear and shared with all of your event partners and suppliers.

· You can’t do it all on your own. Delegate jobs and responsibilities and check them off against that schedule or timeline.

· Calculate, and then stick to your budget. We have a variety of #Saddlespans for every kind of event and budget, as will caterers, lighting suppliers, and designers. Speak to your suppliers and be honest and open about what you have to spend on which event elements. · Embrace event technology – we covered this item in our January blog. But tech does really seem to be an element to be considered and included where possible to ensure your event stands out from the crowd and is appealing to as many people as possible. Dare to be different!

· Finally – don’t take a risk when it comes to the venue. A venue can make or break your event. It’s crucial for space (obvious one!) but also how the space can be used, and how versatile it is. #SaddleSpans are versatile and impressive. They can be configured to suit your event, whether it’s a small party or a national exhibition. They are ideal as an open stage cover or for an enclosed ball – they’ve been used for all of these.

Now you have some top event planning tips, talk to us and we’ll suggest the most suitable and cost-effective option for you.

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Taking your best shot!

Wednesday 01 February 2023 by Amazing News Editor

As planning events for 2023 are well under way we thought it might be useful to share what we’ve learnt about taking the best photo of your event in a SaddleSpan.  

We’re fortunate to have been sent many truly eye-catching images of our SaddleSpans at events, often taken by professional photographers, but sometimes it pays to be able to frame an image yourself. Whether that be for promotional purposes, on your  website, or social media or to help promote next year’s event – any tips on this are useful. Right?  

Here are our top 10 tips: 

  1. Bear in mind that at any event, people and the action move fast! So be prepared with full batteries and lots of energy. 
  2. You won’t be able to capture everything, so have a ‘wish list’ of shots you’d like to get and focus on those. 
  3. Be in the right place at the right time and make sure you know the event timings. 
  4. Know the names and have the permissions for any people in your shots. 
  5. How much light is available? Are you shooting in the middle of the day or at night? Will you be inside or outside the Saddlespan? If it’s inside, be mindful of balancing capturing the atmosphere without the images being too dark. 
  6. Maybe choose to tell a story of the event: From set-up to take-down, people love seeing behind-the-scenes images too. 
  7. Try mixing your style of photos. Try shots from different angles by either crouching down, lying down, moving to a high vantage point, or maybe see what’s possible with a selfie stick. 
  8. Frames don’t always have to be straight. Always fill the frame but maybe try a 45-degree angle for fun?! 
  9. Edit your photos as soon as you can afterwards so you can see what you’ve got to work with. If it’s for promotional purposes check permissions and for any shots that you know a person, group or performer won’t like. 
  10. Consider shooting some video footage too – these can gain better traction especially if you plan to use them on social media where scrollers are more likely to engage in a moving image. 

There’s a lot that can be captured on a smartphone, but if you’re fortunate enough to have professional kit, or photographers to hand – use that! 

We’d love to see any shots you capture of our Saddlespans out and about on site this year – feel free to send them to us at: enquiries@amazingtent.co.uk and let us know if we can use them too, and if so, who the photographer is we should credit. Or if you’re posting straight to social media, feel free to tag us:  

Twitter @Amzingtentco / Facebook @TheAmzingTent Company / LinkedIn @TheAmazingTentCo 

Happy snapping! 

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Events trends for 2023 – immersive events and the metaverse

Wednesday 04 January 2023 by Amazing News Editor

The continued recovery of the events industry is proving that live events drive the deepest engagement with audiences and customers for a memorable experience. Although 2022 did see an increase of in-person events, 2023 looks set to increase attendance further as audiences and delegates insist that virtual events can’t ever fully replicate the experience of an in-person exhibition, show, or festival. The 2023 AMEX Global Event Trends Forecast  research report explains increased optimism for events development. It suggests that the growth is due to improvements in technology and a regenerated focus on sustainability, well-being, and inclusivity. With almost half of companies now operating with a remote workforce, the report focuses on the vital role of in-person meetings for building employee contentment.

Event producers need to find creative ways to engage audiences, whilst aligning their brand and event objectives. Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) are rapidly developing and have become increasingly popular technologies in the events world.

The metaverse is an immersive 3D environment that utilises new technologies to create a simulated world for users to interact with one another and offers huge potential for truly immersive events. The concept of being able to transport your attendees to a different world using just a headset brings the ‘wow’ factor to any event. Attendees won’t forget an event anytime soon if they take place in space or under the sea!

Holographic technology is another evolution increasingly being used at cutting-edge events. It has been used to recreate the presence of celebrities and influential people to deliver keynotes and speeches, demonstrate new products, or add some fun to a party.

Holograms evolved over Covid lockdowns to be used as part of television interviews. ABBA also took part in this revolution and are currently appearing in hologram form in a purpose-built state-of-the-art arena for their 40th anniversary celebration concerts. It seems that anything is possible!

The SaddleSpan’s flexibility lends itself to these AR and VR events with ease. We have so many size options, and with pole-free space inside, there is nothing to detract from the AR or VR world your audience or guests find themselves in. The options and opportunities for projections and lighting that a SaddleSpan can accommodate, will also add to the ambience and atmosphere of any event.

Whilst these exciting events technologies are, relatively speaking, in their infancy, it’s inevitable that the metaverse, AR and VR will continue to develop and be a key player in experiential events that are in demand. The ability to be a combination of in-person, hybrid and virtual, keeping everyone engaged, is fascinating. And we’re here for it.

Photo by MontyLov on Unsplash 

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Adding sparkle to your corporate Christmas event

Friday 02 December 2022 by Amazing News Editor

Saddlespans are extremely adaptable for multiple uses. One element that a SaddleSpan lends itself to, is a good bit of themed decorating. At this time of year, we’re not just talking about a tatty bit of tinsel, oh no. The festive fun of corporate events, parties, and balls in December means that the Amazing Tent team can ‘elf’ you create some Christmas Magic – whether you’re treating your employees or delighting your customers.  

This blog explores some of our Christmas transformation ideas – you’ll have a Winter Wonderland, Santa’s Grotto or an Après Ski setting in no time. Especially by combining your knowledge of how to ‘turn up the heat’ in your SaddleSpan (as covered in our November blog).  

The SaddleSpan canopy can keep you covered for an exclusive skating rink party by simply removing the sides – leaving you protected from the elements, whilst still providing the perfect outdoor ice-skating experience. Alternatively, the space can be divided by themed decoration, physical divides, or various activity areas – one for each part of your corporate Christmas event. For example you could create: 

  • a catering space for a Gingerbread house decorating competition  
  • a cocktail mixology class 
  • an intimate area for activities like a Festive Quiz or a ‘Never have I ever’ ice breaker 

There’s also plenty of room for:   

  • a casino – for your colleagues to have a festive flutter
  • a karaoke night – to belt out your favourite Christmas tunes   
  • a photo booth – to pose in front of a wintery backdrop 
  • a visit from Father Christmas and his elves  – to find out if you’ve been naughty or nice! 

These are all great photo opportunities which will continue for weeks to be a hilarious talking point around the office water cooler. 

Once you have decided what celebratory atmosphere you are aiming for and the functionality you need, we will guide you through the structure and canopy size of the SaddleSpan. We also supply the relevant risk assessments and advise on any adverse weather conditions, to help ensure your festive fun is exactly that.   

 

 

 

 

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Turn up the heat on your next event

Tuesday 01 November 2022 by Amazing News Editor

One of the most common queries when hiring a SaddleSpan over the winter months is whether the space will be warm enough. The answer is yes! Large heaters are very effective, and this means that SaddleSpans can be used all year round. You can rest assured you’ll be able to create a warm and welcoming space.

Assuming you would like to keep your guests as toasty as possible, we would suggest hiring a SaddleSpan with sides.

One of the most efficient heating methods is an indirect diesel heater, which sits outside and provides large volumes of clean, fume-free warm air through duct pipes. These heaters are controlled by a thermostat inside – much like the heating in your own home. They are excellent at warming up large spaces quickly and for long periods of time. Simply position outside your SaddleSpan and enjoy the warmth inside.

Halogen or infrared heaters without fans do not tend to be powerful enough to heat bigger spaces, so are best avoided. You may also want to avoid using a space heater – despite the lure of the cheaper hire costs. This is because they’re meant for use in well-ventilated areas, and without this it could potentially lead to carbon monoxide build-up.

Once you have chosen your heating option, we recommend getting them going at least an hour before your guests are due, so it is cosy and welcoming for their arrival.

Other tips to keep your SaddleSpan warm for a winter occasion include:

· Choosing a hardwood flooring rather than matting to help insulate your event from the colder ground.

· Not seating anyone too near the entry and exit points, even the best heating cannot stop draughts.

· You can create a feeling of warmth by choosing darker, richer colours and luxuriously comfortable furnishings when you consider the décor for your event.

· Lighting is also key when it comes to creating a cosy atmosphere, so go for warm coloured lights to give the illusion of warmth on a chilly evening.

With these winter warmer tips in mind, holding an event over the cooler months of the year does not need to leave anyone out in the cold. And with our extensive event experience we can be on hand to advise you on your next exciting winter event.

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Our top tips for a spooktacular shindig!

Wednesday 05 October 2022 by Amazing News Editor

Halloween season is upon us this month, and whether you’re a university, college, company, or any other organisation celebrating the spooky season – we’re here to help.

The versatility of the SaddleSpan tent, means it can be seamlessly transformed into a haunted house, a candlelit cellar crawling with creepiness, or a dark and dingy dungeon for your ghoulish get-together. Here’s how:

Space – with one of our SaddleSpans you can ensure your party venue will give your guests, performers, and caterers enough room to get their spook on. SaddleSpans can be arranged to fit everything from entertainment equipment and technology, catering, and of course, displaying the creative contributions of a pumpkin carving competition. It can achieve all of this whilst adding to the ambience of your celebrations.

Access – if you opt for an old, spooky venue, it could potentially have harder-to-access areas for guests and staff. When you hire a SaddleSpan we ensure that the whole venue, including entrances and exits, are accessible and Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) compliant. For example, access ramps may be installed to make the most of the venue for everyone to enjoy your murder mystery dinner or creepy coffin café.

Lighting – SaddleSpans look impressive with lighting and décor. They can easily be converted into a monsters’ ball, creating a fitting venue for your spooky soirée. The range of stunning lighting effects is endless and has an enormous impact on atmosphere. For example, you could use coloured lighting and projections through potted trees, conjuring a misty, otherworldly feeling. We can even help you to screen a horror film at your ghastly going on with a pop-up cinema inside the SaddleSpan. 

Health and Safety– we conduct a full health and safety inspection before signing off on our tents, always bearing in mind whether it is safe for the specific activity you have planned for your event.

So why not get everyone together in the scary spirit to socialise and descend on the dancefloor in frightening fancy dress?

The creepy costumes we will leave to you – but rest assured we can accommodate your needs to create a perfectly spellbinding Halloween event.

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A look back at our Summer of Saddlespans

Wednesday 07 September 2022 by Amazing News Editor

In May our Saddlespans were at VET Fest, BBC Radio 1’s Big Weekend in Coventry, and Creamfields South. Sheena Jones, Head of Operations at Creamfields tooted our flute saying: “We love the style of the Saddlespans from Amazing Tents – they’re an iconic part of the Creamfields festival landscape.” Well, thank you Sheena. You’ve made us blush! 

We went onwards into June at Loungefest, followed by “the most rambunctious garden fête” at The Great Estate Festival in Cornwall. July saw us on site with the exclusive Soho House Festival and then we were part of the very last Cornbury Festival. August was our busiest month: we spent some time by the sea at Boardmasters Festival, and then to the beautiful Gloucestershire countryside with Big Feastival. And we have recently come off-site from both Hide & Seek and the Reading and Leeds Festivals. Phew! 

We also have the Jockey Club Blenheim Horse Trials in Oxford coming up later in September. However, we’re not completely wrapped up for the year, as we do of course supply events over the autumn and winter with our heated Saddlespans providing lots of warmth.  

We’ve enjoyed looking back over this year’s sites, festivals, and events. If you are a festival producer or events professional planning your alfresco summer 2023 shindigs, bear in mind Sheena’s kind words and get in touch with us so we can help you to make your event Saddlespan smart! +44 (0)7778 835 207  / enquiries@amazingtent.co.uk 

“September is a thirty-days long goodbye to summer, to the season that left everybody both happy and weary of the warm, humid weather and the exhausting but thrilling adventures.” – Lea Malot 

Photo credit: Geoffrey Hubble. Creamfields.  

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We can pitch anywhere!

Monday 08 August 2022 by Amazing News Editor

SaddleSpans are one of the most versatile and impressive temporary event structures in the industry, catering for any number of people and every type of event. From festivals and concerts to corporate events, parties and balls.

We work with event planners, design professionals, and discerning businesses who know that creating an appealing venue for an event, launch or festival can bring people together to experience the ultimate wow factor. This is an especially great opportunity when pitching our Saddlespans in a unique location.

The SaddleSpans are strong, weather resistant, flexible event structures that look fantastic. . They’re able to be erected on grass, or hardstanding, and without poles to detract from the interior space. They can be custom designed to your needs to offer a perfect fit. As there are no ropes or cumbersome support mechanisms, Saddlespans help to improve the usability of any available space, which can be crucial when your event needs to consider turnover, the number of clients who can attend, or at an event where space is at a premium.

Don’t forget, the versatile Saddlespan can also incorporate your company logo to help promote your business.

One of our largest structures consists of Seven S5000 Saddlespans connected together. Creating an area of 2,910 m2 with a standing capacity of 5,820, a row seating capacity of 3,880 and Gala seating capacity of 1,620. But in reality, the modular nature of the S5000 SaddleSpan means that bespoke configurations are limitless and can be designed to suit your requirements and location.

We have the largest stock of SaddleSpan tents in Europe. The tents can be easily transported and erected by our experienced team of event professionals. to just about anywhere. Making our Saddlespans the most flexible and cost-effective solution for impactful corporate events, trade shows, trade stands, and experiential marketing solutions. Get in touch to see which of our versatile venues to book!

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