Imagine planning a spectacular event. You know your guests, your theme and your vision is so clear that you could almost touch it. But the next step is to pick rentals. Choose a large number of items that are average or choose a small number of pieces that stand out. Let’s get into the thorny issue, find out more?

Imagine being in an event with everything screaming “overdone.” Imagine an event with tables covered in mismatched centerpieces. You might also see chairs that wobble or sway if you take a funny look at them. And there are more decorations on the table than you could shake a stick. As if someone had thrown in the kitchen-sink and everything else. You can see a lot, but is it enough to make a lasting impression on you? No, probably not.

Now reverse the script. Imagine an event where everything has been selected with care. The chairs should be comfortable enough to allow you to sit and listen to even the longest of speeches. There is just enough décor on the tables for you to notice without feeling like you’re a at a scavenger market. This is a case where less is more.

Think of it like a dating application. If you swipe right, you might get a few more matches. However, will any be quality connections for you? Not likely. Even event rentals can be rented. Quantity may fill space but quality products create memorable experiences.

At a wedding, I saw these gorgeous velvet lounge chairs in small corners of the venue. They didn’t have many of them, just enough so that they could create intimate areas for conversation. They were loved by everyone! Because they were comfortable, stylish, and fashionable, these chairs quickly became THE place for cocktail hour.

But let’s be practical for just a moment. Do you really require fifty fans to be scattered all over a summer outdoor event? Why not buy ten good misting fans instead? Think smart and not hard.

What about this: Budget constraints force us to select more items rather than better ones. After all, who doesn’t enjoy getting more for less? But less can actually be more cost efficient in the end. Renting fewer items of high quality can reduce the setup time and costs.

As we’re talking about budgets, here’s another example: a friend decided to throw her child a party. She rented out a massive inflatable castle and twenty plastic chairs. The tables looked like they had been rescued from a garage sale. What happened next? It was a great castle for the kids, but those chairs were a disaster! She could spend half as much and get the same results by choosing fewer but more comfortable seating options.

Now, let’s move on! It’s time to think about a second point: creating an ambiance versus collecting clutter. It is much easier to create a beautiful atmosphere with a table set with linens that complement the room and tasteful decor than with five tables full of trinkets.

You know the saying by chefs that we first eat with our eyeballs? Also, guests will experience events through their eyes! First impressions can be very important. So why not create a lasting impression by using fewer, but more striking elements?

When you’re looking through rental catalogues (we all have done this) or endless Pinterest boards, remember: Look for pieces that standout rather than blend with the countless other items.

Choose essential rentals isn’t rocket science. It’s about creating memories that linger after everyone returns home.

Take those tough choices, but make them wisely.