Event Hire vs Buying Decorations: Which is Best?

Is it time to style a venue? One of the first big decisions you will need to make is the choice between renting and buying. It can be very tempting to simply go and buy everything you need, especially if you want the event to be extra meaningful or if you are a planner who is constantly dressing up locations for special celebrations.

While the buying route is very appealing, it isn’t always the best option. Let’s compare these two strategies and discuss what you should be doing for your upcoming celebration.

When to Buy Your Decor Pieces

There are some occasions where it might just be better to go ahead and buy. Here is a quick look at scenarios where you will definitely benefit from investing;

Items You Can Use Again – If you can use it again – inside your house or for future parties – then it might be best to go ahead and invest. Items like vases, art pieces, and small decor pieces can easily be repurposed at different occasions or gifted to family and friends on later occasions. What you spend now can help you save a little bit of money when it is time to buy birthday or Christmas gifts.

Personalised Goods – Naturally, there won’t be any custom items for rent. Anything engraved, bespoke, or custom-made will need to be acquired. You, or guests, will want to cling to these meaningful items anyway.

Consumables and Perishables – Some decor items cannot be reused. In the case of real flowers, you definitely want to find a good seller.

Small Events – With mini events where you are just catering for about five or six people, buying can also be the more affordable and simple solution.

Pros of Buying

Items can be kept for re-use.
Items can be gifted.
Ideal for more meaningful decor pieces.

Cons of Buying

It is usually more expensive.
You will end up with lots of items you will never use again.
It can be very hard to resell.
Reselling can result in huge losses.

When to Rent Decor Pieces

For any big and grandiose event, it is usually better to look for a good event hire company to rent from. Here are some occasions and decor item types you definitely want to rent.

Big and Bulky Items – The big items like arches, backdrops, tables, chairs, and huge centrepieces are always best to rent. These types of items cost a fortune to buy, and they can be so hard to haul and store.

Themed Items – Most people never use the same theme or colour palette for any future events. This means all of those coloured tablecloths, napkins, and decor items will be left unused if you buy them. Renting is usually better, even if you are an event planner. The chance of someone using the same theme is usually slim.

No Cleanup or Transport Burden – If you don’t want to deal with the burden of hauling loads of chairs and tables, setting them up, and clearing them away, then renting is always the better option.

Eco-Friendliness – Renting is more sustainable since the same items are repurposed over and over again.

Pros of Renting

Renting can be more affordable – especially for larger events.
Event hire companies handle delivery, set-up, and removal of bulky or large volume items.
You don’t have to struggle to resell or store items.
You get access to greater diversity.
You can afford better quality pieces.
The picking and decorating process is easier.

Cons of Renting

Renting can still be costly.
You won’t be keeping any of the beautiful items used at your event.

Find the Best Function Equipment for Hire

From this list, it becomes clear that renting and buying are both good options. The best option you do, however, have is the hybrid solution. Rent as much as you can. Only those few items you cannot find at event hire companies or personalised items should be bought. This combination strategy will help you get the best value and offers the most flexibility.

If you are looking for fine quality event decor and furniture, then we welcome you to have a look at what we have available at Mux Events. Our equipment can be rented affordably, and our team can assist with everything from set-up to transport.

Contact Mux Events now and create stylish spaces without spending a fortune.