Fundamental Rental — An essential guide to your Iowa event rental needs

From booming sound systems to high tech computers; from the linens to the tables they cover, you need to pull together a lot of stuff in order to put together the perfect Iowa event. And that can be overwhelming. Do you know what to look for in rental suppliers? What questions to ask? What mistakes to avoid? Find out here.

Audio Visual

Remember when Bugs and Daffy sang, “Overture, curtains, lights. This is it, you’ll hit the heights. And oh what heights we’ll hit. On with the show this is it.” Even for cartoon characters, the production values were pretty awesome. Choosing a supplier for your event’s AV needs should give you the confidence to know that your “really big show” is going to go smoothly, without a hitch. That’s why you want a company that professionally maintains their equipment; uses qualified technicians; offers competitive pricing; and is available to respond to any issues that may arise. Look for Iowa AV pros in Des Moines and Urbandale who can show you they’ve got experience at event production and who can, if need be, stick around and run the show for you. In this industry, an AV company should have state-of-art equipment, not the overhead projectors you remember from grade school. Many AV pros like those in Cedar Rapids or Davenport may have multiple video display units — from small to jumbo — available for rental. They should also have a variety of presentation equipment in stock, as well as everything you could want in lighting and staging for your event. View our complete list of Iowa AV Rental companies.

Computer Rental

The array of computer brands, operating systems, software and other factors may make it necessary for you to rent computer equipment for your meeting, rather than rely on each participant to supply their own. You’ll find there’s a definite advantage to everyone being on the same page when they’re all on the same IT equipment. The really cool part about computer rental is that you can get the latest, greatest, best of breed technology without the commitment that comes with purchasing. Look for a computer rental company in Des Moines that offers both Apple and IBM-type products including iPads and tablets, desktops, laptops, and more. They should be well versed in the latest apps and software to enhance your meeting, as well assist you in set up and execution of events like virtual meetings, webcasting, live event streaming, live presentations, webinars and even event solutions completely customized to your needs. You may even find that your Iowa computer rental company offers rental on AV equipment as well.

Expo Services

With a big event coming up you need everything from tents to chairs to linens to lighting and sound. Where do you go? Look no further than an expo service provider. There’s just something about having experienced pros on your team that gives an event planner a certain warm feeling all over. (It’s called relief!) Ask your expo service provider for a list of their fee-based services as well as services they provide gratis. Many will offer things such as CAD drawing, some tent installation, dance floor installation, site visits, lighting installation and more, all at no charge. And did you know many expo service providers offer design services so you can see how your space will be transformed or as a way to explore multiple room setup options? Plus, be sure to ask about other services such as food service and prep, lighting and sound, décor and much more. View our complete list of Iowa Expo Service providers.

Linen Rental

There’s so much more to linens today than there was twenty years ago. Trends incorporate different textures, fabrics and colors to transform a room and make a statement. Count on the premiere pros in this area, like those in Cedar Rapids and West Des Moines. Rent table cloths, napkins, runners, skirting, chair treatments, sashes, napkin rings and aisle runners all from one vendor. What makes this so exciting is that you can shop by theme, color or fabric to pinpoint the perfect linens for your event. View our guide to Iowa Linen Rental companies here.

Meeting Planning + Production

Is your schedule jam packed? Not a moment to spare? Why not leave the meeting planning + production to someone else? Full service event management companies will handle all the details for your meeting or event including coordination of details and vendors, logistics, lighting, sound, video support and more. When someone else is focused on the details of your Iowa event you can oversee the big picture — meeting content, budgeting and costs, menu planning, and more. Visit our Iowa directory for a complete list of Meeting Planning and Event Production Companies.

Party + Tent Rental

Just can't seem to find the perfect venue? Why not create your own? Tenting is an ideal solution and can be as simple as a lightweight all-purpose canopy or as elaborate as a Clearspan Tent featuring climate control and maximized use of interior spaces. Explore all your tenting needs with a local Iowa party and tent rental company. like experts Classic Events + Parties in West Des Moines. Be sure to ask for recommendations on accessories too, such as sidewalls, tent doors, anchors, flooring, bridges and ramps, and portable heating or air conditioning.

Radio Rental

Communication between team members is critical to ensure your event runs smoothly. Radio rental guarantees all team members are on the same frequency when it comes to logistics, execution, and safety of attendees at your event. Cell phone communication can be unreliable as venues either don’t offer WiFi or the building construction itself isn’t conducive to cell phone signals. Radio is the solution that can keep your team in touch with one another. Contact one of many Iowa radio rental companies located in Coralville or Ottumwa.

Renting is an ideal solution for so many aspects of your event. Budgeting is often easier and costs are lower when you’re not factoring in purchases or warehousing expensive equipment. In the end, if a successful event is your intent, then why not rent?