Three ways to get tables, chairs, linens, and decor for your event.
The three options
Party rental — rent from a local rental operator who delivers/sets up/breaks down.
Venue package — venue includes equipment with venue rental fee.
DIY — buy from Costco/Amazon/wedding-supply discounters, set up yourself.
Pricing comparison (100-guest wedding)
- Party rental: $2,500-$5,500 (rental fee for 1 event)
- Venue package: often $1,500-$3,500 included or upcharge in venue rental
- DIY: $1,500-$3,000 to buy (then resell on Facebook Marketplace, recover ~50%)
By use case
Party rental wins when
- Specific aesthetic (color, style, premium linens)
- You don't have storage
- One-time event
- Don't want to manage setup + breakdown
Venue package wins when
- Standard event (not picky about specifics)
- Venue inventory matches your style
- Want a turnkey experience
- Venue offers significant discount with package
DIY wins when
- Multiple events planned (wedding + showers + parties)
- Have storage + setup help
- Tight budget
- Comfortable selling after
Hidden costs of each
Rental: damage waiver, late return fees, scope creep on add-ons.
Venue package: upgrade fees, limited customization, must use venue's choices.
DIY: setup labor (yours or hired), storage logistics, post-event resale time.
The hybrid: venue + rental supplement
Common approach: venue package for tables + chairs, rental upgrade for linens + premium chairs + photo booth + lighting. Splits cost + customization.
The bottom line
One-time event with specific aesthetic = party rental. Standard event at venue with good package = venue package. Multiple events with storage = DIY. Hybrid often optimal. Browse party rental operators.