What Do I Need to Rent for My Event? A Beginner’s Guide to Planning the Perfect Setup

Planning an event can feel overwhelming—especially if it’s your first time renting. Maybe you’re hosting a wedding, graduation party, company picnic, or community fundraiser. You know you need something… but where do you even start?

At EZ Event Rentals, we help clients across Omaha and Lincoln every day who are asking the same question:
“What do I actually need to rent for this event to run smoothly?”

Good news: we’ve got your back. Here’s a simple, no-stress guide to help you figure out exactly what you need—and nothing you don’t.

Start with the Basics: Tables, Chairs, and Shelter

Nearly every event—big or small—needs these three things covered.

1. Tables

You’ll likely need tables for:

  • Guest seating

  • Food and drink stations

  • Gift or sign-in areas

  • Vendors or displays

We offer round, banquet, cocktail, and specialty tables so you can match your layout to the vibe.

2. Chairs

Comfortable guests are happy guests. Folding chairs are great for casual events, while padded or specialty chairs add elegance for weddings and upscale dinners.

3. Tents or Shade

If your event is outdoors, don’t leave weather up to chance. Whether it’s for sun or rain, tents create structure, define your space, and help guests feel at ease.

Think About Flow and Function

Beyond the basics, what will guests be doing at your event? This helps determine the next layer of rentals.

Food & Drink Needs

  • Buffet or bar tables

  • Coolers or beverage dispensers

  • Linens and skirting for a polished look

Entertainment Areas

  • Dance floors

  • DJ or band staging

  • Lighting to keep the party going into the evening

Speeches, Awards, or Presentations

  • Staging or risers

  • Pipe and drape backdrops

  • Podiums and lighting

Don’t Forget the Extras That Make It All Work

These often-overlooked items can make a huge difference in the success of your event:

Lighting

Whether it's evening string lights, tent lighting, or accent uplighting, a little goes a long way.

Trash & Cleanup

Yes—it matters. We offer covered trash cans and post-event pickup support so your space stays clean and stress-free.

Power & Climate Support

Fans, heaters, and extension cords might not be exciting, but they’re lifesavers depending on the season and venue.

Hosting a Smaller Event?

You still might want:

  • A few cocktail tables for mingling

  • A small tent or shade structure

  • A sound setup or lighting to set the mood

We can help you right-size your rental package so it fits your space and budget.

Our Process Makes It Easy

We know what questions to ask, how to build a custom package, and what will (and won’t) work at your venue. Just tell us:

  • What kind of event you’re hosting

  • Where it’s happening

  • How many people you expect

…and we’ll take it from there.

Ready to Plan With Confidence?

Whether it’s your first event or your fiftieth, EZ Event Rentals is here to make it simple. We’ll guide you through every step, recommend exactly what you need, and handle the setup so you can focus on enjoying the day.

Reach out now for a free custom quote. Let’s make your event effortless from the ground up.

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Planning a Fall or Winter Event in Nebraska? Here’s What to Rent (and What to Know)

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Light Up the Night: Why Event Lighting Matters (And How to Get It Right)