If you’re considering a canopy tent for your business, you’re likely aiming to make an impact at events. A custom canopy tent is a simple yet powerful tool for drawing in customers and showcasing your brand in a way that’s both professional and memorable. But where do you start? With so many options out there, the buying process can seem overwhelming. In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through the essentials of buying the perfect canopy tent to fit your brand and meet your business goal.
→ Related Article:Tips for Designing a Custom Canopy Tent that Stands Out
A NOTE OF CAUTION: Not all pop-up tents are made the same! Unless this is a one-time event and you have no interest in using this tent in the future, resist the urge to buy a tent from your local big-box retailer or shop for the lowest price online. We know it sounds cliche, but when it comes to event tents you do get what you pay for. While at a glance, these lower-priced tents may look the same, the devil is in the details. These details include things like sturdy legs, smooth working parts that stand up to repeated set up and tear down, durable canopy materials, and quality construction. In our “throw-away” economy, many manufacturers have unfortunately taken that approach to even 10x10 event tents. If you want to purchase a tent that will stand the test of time for many events to come, price should not be the #1 deciding factor. If it is, you’ll likely be purchasing at least two (2) of them over time
Step 1: Determine your canopy tent’s purpose and size
The first step in buying a canopy tent is figuring out how you plan to use it. Will your tent be a regular fixture at trade shows and outdoor events, or is it for occasional use? If you’ll be setting it up frequently, durability and ease of setup should be top priorities. For infrequent events, you might have more flexibility to choose something lightweight and cost-effective. Defining your purpose can help you narrow down your choices right from the start.
Next, consider the tent size you’ll need. Custom canopy tents come in a range of sizes, from compact 10x10s to spacious 10x20s. If you’re working with limited space or attending smaller events, a custom 10x10 canopy tent is a popular choice for offering enough room to display your products while fitting into most venue spaces. On the other hand, larger tents can provide a commanding presence at bigger events, especially if you plan to display a lot of materials or interact with multiple visitors at once. The key is to choose a size that gives you space to work comfortably without overwhelming the setup area.
Step 2: Choose Your Tent Frame and Material Quality
Once you’ve settled on a size, it’s time to dive into the materials that will make up your custom canopy tent. The frame is one of the most important aspects to consider, as it will impact your tent’s durability and stability. Aluminum and steel are the most common materials for canopy frames. Aluminum is lightweight and rust-resistant, making it easy to transport, while steel is heavier and provides extra stability in windy conditions. Think about where you’ll be setting up—if you’ll be outdoors, a sturdy steel frame might be worth the extra weight. Custom Banner Lab's custom canopy tent comes with an easy-to-set-up aluminum frame.
The canopy fabric is just as important, especially if you plan to use the tent outdoors. At Custom Banner Lab, we use 600-Denier Polyester Canopy, which is popular for its durability and resistance to the elements. This fabric is UV-resistant, waterproof, and fire-retardant. This ensures that your canopy tent can last longer and withstand the rigors of event after event.
Step 3: Customize Your Tent with Colors and Branding
Now comes the fun part—making the tent truly yours! Custom canopy tents offer a fantastic canvas for displaying your brand’s personality, so take some time to choose colors, logos, and graphics that align with your business. If your brand colors are bold, don’t be afraid to go all-in to make your tent stand out. For more neutral brands, consider adding a pop of color that catches the eye without overpowering the design.
For logo placement, think about where your brand name or logo will be most visible. Many companies opt to place logos on the canopy’s top or along the valances (the lower edges of the tent) for maximum visibility from a distance. Remember that less can be more when it comes to branding—keeping the design clean and simple often has a more powerful impact. At Custom Banner Lab, we offer dye-sublimated edge-to-edge printing to ensure your colors come out vibrant and your graphics are printed with precision.
→ Learn more about what to print on your custom tent:FAQs: What to Include on Your Custom Pop-up Tent: Best Practices for Business Owners
Step 4: Factor in Accessories and Additional Features
Accessories can turn a basic canopy tent into a multifunctional event space. Sidewalls, for example, are excellent add-ons for extra privacy and wind protection, and they can even be branded to create more space for your message. Sidewalls come in half, full, or mesh options, so you can choose the level of coverage that suits your needs best. If you’ll be setting up in sunny locations, a tent with UV-protective walls can also provide a cooler, more comfortable environment for you and your visitors.
Weight bags or stakes are must-haves for outdoor events, as they keep your tent stable even in windy conditions. For night events, consider battery-operated or solar-powered lights to keep your tent bright and inviting after the sun goes down. Adding these makes a big difference in enhancing your tent’s functionality and making your setup feel professional and complete.
→ View our recommended accessories for your custom tent here.
Step 5: Consider Portability and Ease of Setup
As a business owner, you’ll want a tent that doesn’t require a small team to set up. Look for a custom canopy tent designed for easy setup, preferably with a pop-up design that you can manage solo or with minimal assistance. Some tents are designed with convenient features like push-button releases and telescoping legs that make setup and takedown a breeze. This can be especially helpful if you’ll be using at events frequently, as it saves time and hassle.
Also, check if the tent comes with a carrying case or storage bag. Many high-quality canopy tents come with wheeled carrying bags that make transportation easier, especially for larger tents. The right carrying bag will protect your tent during transport and storage, so you’ll be ready for each event without worry.
→ Read more:Things to Consider Before Ordering a Custom Canopy Tent
The Different Types of Custom Canopy Tents to Choose From
At CustomBannerLab, we offer a wide range of customizable canopy tents that suit various trade show and outdoor event needs. Our selection includes:
10x10 Custom Canopy Tent
The 10x10 custom canopy tent is one of the most popular sizes, ideal for trade shows, farmers' markets, and outdoor promotional events. It's spacious enough for various displays yet compact for easy setup and transport. With vibrant custom prints, this tent can turn your booth into a brand-forward space that grabs the attention of passersby.
10x20 Custom Canopy Tent
If you require maximum visibility and space, the 10x20 custom canopy tent is the way to go. Whether you're hosting a large event or need to accommodate more visitors, this tent offers ample room to showcase your products, provide seating, or conduct demonstrations. Plus, the extended tent walls give you more opportunities for bold, eye-catching graphics.
Ready to Elevate Your Brand at Events? Check Out Custom Banner Lab’s Custom Canopy Tents Today!
Buying a custom canopy tent for your business doesn’t have to be complicated. By following these simple steps—defining your needs, selecting the right materials, adding custom touches, considering accessories, and choosing a tent that’s easy to set up—you’ll be on your way to finding the perfect tent for your events. Remember, this tent will be an extension of your brand, so take your time in making choices that truly represent your business. With the right custom canopy tent, you’ll have a professional, attractive space that stands out and draws people in wherever you go.