When we first began envisioning Ritchie Hill, before all else, we dreamed of the events that would take place there. Everyone has their own style and we wanted that to be reflected in each event. When we started exploring rental options we didn’t have to look far. We fell in love with Classic Party Rentals in Charlotte. Their customer service, love for events, and variety of rental options blew us away. They had a solution for every situation we threw at them!
CPR is the nation’s leading provider of special events rentals. They have even provided rentals for the Oscars! They specialize in large-scale events; everything from corporate occasions and fundraisers to back yard BBQs and weddings. Aside from tenting, CPR’s showroom also features linens, chairs, place settings, and anything else you might need for your event. The Charlotte branch alone holds over 100 years of experience in working in the event industry!
Meet Amanda and Andrew, our amazing representatives from Classic Party Rentals. Amanda is an Account Executive at the Charlotte location. Andrew is the General Manager of the Charlotte branch and previously owned a catering company. He, along with his entire Events Team, understands the challenges a wedding can create.
We asked them a few questions to help you plan your wedding and get to know your local CPR team:
Q: What is your favorite part of the wedding day?
Amanda: I am a big fan of color. Linens are a wonderful way to add shimmer and vibrancy to any wedding. If you plan to have catering tables, gift tables, a cake table, etc.; considering adding specialty linens to those areas to tie in all your flowers, décor & colors.
Andrew: When the bride walks down the aisle. I have over 20 years working in special events and I still tear up watching every wedding.
Q: If you could offer up one piece of advice to a bride planning her wedding, what would it be?
Amanda: Pay attention to details you like and/or your wedding planner suggests. It can really enhance your event & make it extra special in some creative & memorable ways. Remember the day is about you and your fiancé, enjoy it!
Andrew: Be realistic about your budget. Don’t leave yourself with buyer’s remorse after the Big Day. Work with your vendors to select items you love that will not break the bank. The bills should not overshadow the memories.
Q: What are some rental items clients commonly overlook?
Amanda: Lighting: creating ambiance can enhance your event. Whether you look into adding dim lights, up lights, rope lights, Tuscan lights and/or votives; changing the lighting can help you create a wonderful atmosphere. Up lights with color gels can be your most powerful pop to get the ooh’s and ah’s you are looking for. If you put the right lighting in your space the rest will be easy.
Andrew: Coat racks, power supply (generators), and trash cans.
Q: What are some ways to spruce up the inside of a reception tent?
Amanda: Swaging the tent ceiling with colored crystal organza or imperial taffeta. Swagging adds just the right amount of texture to your ceiling to excite your guests and lift their eyes. Colored trays for butler passed hors d’eouvres can help highlight your menu selection. Furniture placed in areas to give guest lounge seating. Look into using various styles & colors with accents.
Andrew: Swaging the interior roof with taffeta, organza or velon makes a bold statement. Lighting is also a great way to add drama to a tent – up-lights in particular. And, cover up those tent poles! Draping for tent legs is a must!
Q: And lastly, what is your favorite Southern tradition?
Amanda: I look forward to my “Supper Club” every month. I call it my favorite day of the month because it gives me the opportunity to have fun planning a get together with my dear friends.
Andrew: Taking a caramel cake to a funeral. You’ve been here for generations if you know to do that (and even longer if you know how to make one!)
Want to learn more? Visit their website or give them a shout! And be sure to attend our grand opening on Ritchie Hill March 28th & 29th to check out some of the amazing rental items they have available!
XOXO, Liz