Customer Spotlight: Idaho Tents & Events

When and how did you get started in the event rental business?

I got started in the event rental business after spending several years working as a mobile DJ. That experience gave me a front-row seat to some of life’s most meaningful celebrations, including weddings, community gatherings, and milestone events. Being part of those moments sparked my interest in the broader event world and helped me understand how much the right atmosphere, setup, and planning can shape an experience.

Over time, that interest grew into a vision to build something of my own. I wanted to create a company focused not just on providing equipment, but on helping people bring their events to life from the ground up. That idea became the foundation for Idaho Tents & Events, though getting started required long hours, persistence, and a willingness to quickly learn the ins and outs of logistics, operations, and customer relationships.

As the business grew, a major turning point came through expanding into new markets and acquiring established companies like Tates Tents & Events. That growth allowed us to increase our capabilities while continuing to focus on what matters most—building strong relationships and delivering reliable, high-quality service for every event we support.

Labor always seems to be one of the biggest challenges facing rental companies.  What strategies/programs do you have in place to help attract employees to come work for you?

At Idaho Tents & Events, we believe going above and beyond for our customers is what sets us apart. Those early experiences taught me that consistency, reliability, and strong relationships are just as important as the equipment we provide. Growth is not just about adding inventory or territory, it’s about building a team culture that shares the same commitment to service and excellence. Expanding through acquisition was both exciting and challenging… integrating teams, systems, and customer relationships while preserving the quality and reputation that each company had built.

Along those same lines, I have always admired what a great team you have and the culture you have built.  What have you done over the years to foster and maintain that work environment?

it’s about building a team commitment to service and excellence. That philosophy continues to guide how we operate today. Events often represent once-in-a-lifetime milestones, and we take that responsibility seriously. Whether we’re supporting a large corporate gathering, a community festival, or an intimate wedding, our team focuses on making the process seamless so clients can focus on enjoying the moment.

Over the years, we’ve had the privilege of being part of countless memorable events. From large-scale celebrations to personal family milestones, each one reminds us why this work matters. Seeing a space transform from an empty field into a beautiful venue filled with people celebrating together is something that never gets old.

What do you see as the biggest challenge facing the tenting industry in 2025? In addition, what is biggest area of opportunity?

The event and party rental industry has also evolved significantly since we first started. Clients today expect more customization, creativity, and efficiency than ever before. Technology, design trends, and higher expectations for guest experiences have all pushed the industry forward. To keep pace, we’ve focused on expanding our inventory, improving logistics, and continuously refining how we serve our clients.

Looking ahead, our goal is simple: continue growing Idaho Tents & Events while maintaining the service and reliability that our customers trust. We’re always exploring ways to expand our offerings, improve our capabilities, and support even larger and more diverse events throughout the region.

What is one piece of advice you would give to someone just getting into tents?

For entrepreneurs considering starting their own business — especially in the events or service industries — my advice is straightforward: focus on relationships, work hard, and be willing to adapt. Success rarely happens overnight, but if you stay committed to delivering value and taking care of your customers, the opportunities will come.

At the end of the day, Idaho Tents & Events is about more than tents and equipment. It’s about helping create the spaces where people gather, celebrate, and make memories that last a lifetime."