Table and Chair Rental Ideas
Planning a graduation party at home creates a challenging need for finding enough tables and chairs to accommodate a large group. However, with a bit of resourcefulness and community spirit, you can borrow what you need for free or almost free. Here are some tips on how to secure tables and chairs from local sources while keeping the pocketbook impact to a minimum.
1. Leverage Community Groups and Online Platforms Social Media Groups.
Platforms like Facebook often have community groups where members lend or give away items. Post a request in local buy/sell/trade groups, neighborhood groups, or community forums. Explain what you need, why, and for how long.
Nextdoor is a social networking service for neighborhoods. Post your request in your local Nextdoor group. Since it’s focused on your immediate area, neighbors might be more willing to help out.
Freecycle is a grassroots movement of people giving (and getting) stuff for free in their own towns. Search for your local Freecycle group and post a request. You might be surprised at how many people have spare tables and chairs they are willing to lend.
Leverage those Mom/Parent groups that you have met throughout the years of sports, drama club, music, etc. More than likely, there are a group of parents in a similar situation that are all looking for tables and chairs. You may be able to coordinate with a group to pool your tables and chairs together for your events. It’s worth looking into!! Just make sure that you put some painters tape on the underside of the chair and tables with the owners name on them so that you know who to return them back to.
2. Reach Out to Local Organizations
Churches, Community Centers, Funeral Homes and other local organizations often have tables and chairs available for their events. Contact them directly and ask if they would be willing to lend them to you for a day or weekend. Be sure to offer to pick up and return the items and leave them in good condition.
Local schools may have tables and chairs that are not in use during weekends or holidays. Speak to the administrative office and see if they can accommodate your request. Again, emphasize your willingness to handle transportation and ensure the items are returned in the same condition.
Libraries and municipal buildings sometimes have event spaces with tables and chairs. Inquire with the staff if there are any available for borrowing when they’re not in use for official events.
3. Utilize Local Businesses and Restaurants
Some restaurants and cafés might be willing to lend you tables and chairs if they are not needed for their business during the time of your event. This is more likely if you have a personal connection with the owners or managers. It doesn’t hurt to ask politely!
Smaller event venues or halls that are not booked might be open to lending out their tables and chairs. Call and ask if this is a possibility, and be clear about your timeframe and logistics.
4. Explore Civic and Non-Profit Resources
Civic Organizations like the Rotary Club, Lions Club, or Kiwanis often have equipment for events and may be willing to lend tables and chairs. Contact your local chapters and inquire about their lending policies.
Non-profits focused on community building and events might also have resources available. If you’re organizing an event that aligns with their mission, they might be particularly willing to assist.
Tips for a Successful Borrowing Experience
Plan Ahead: Reach out as early as possible to increase your chances of securing the items you need. Graduation season becomes a busy time of year.
Be Clear: Clearly communicate your needs, including the number of tables and chairs, the dates you need them, and your pick-up and drop-off plan.
Offer Something in Return: While you’re looking for a free solution, offering something in return, like a small donation, volunteer time, or a public thank you, can make people more willing to help.
Show Gratitude: Always thank the lenders profusely and consider writing a thank-you note or providing a small token of appreciation.
Finding tables and chairs for free is a testament to the power of community and resourcefulness. By tapping into local networks, reaching out to organizations, and exploring various platforms, you can meet your event needs without straining your budget. Happy borrowing!
When all else fails…rent!
There are a few local companies that are willing to rent you tables and chairs. You can expect to pay about $2-3 per folding chair and $14-17 per table. There are also plenty of places on Facebook Marektplace, but you will need to vet them separately to ensure they are legitimate.
Three Sisters Rental (Located in Coon Rapids)
Metro Rental (Located in Elk River)
Good luck to you!
