How to choose the right event hire
for your occasion

Event hire has become one of the most popular ways to elevate a celebration — and for good reason. A beautifully staffed food or drink station does something a venue's standard offering rarely achieves: it gives your guests a moment. Something to gather around, photograph, and talk about.

But not all hire is created equal. Here is what to look for when choosing a service that will genuinely add to your event, rather than simply filling space.

1. Ask whether it is staffed — and by whom

The difference between a staffed station and an unstaffed display is enormous. A staffed station keeps the experience moving, ensures quality is consistent throughout the event, and handles any issues invisibly. An unstaffed one becomes a messy table within the first thirty minutes.

When enquiring, always ask: who runs the station on the day? Is it the same team that set it up? How many people will be present? A good hire company will have a clear, confident answer.

2. Think about flow, not just aesthetics

A station that looks beautiful but creates a bottleneck ruins the evening. Before booking, think about where it will sit in relation to your other event elements — the bar, the seating, the dance floor. The best hire companies will ask about your floor plan and advise accordingly.

Consider how long it takes to serve each guest. Interactive stations where every guest customises their order can create queues if not managed well. Ask the hire company how many guests they can comfortably serve per hour.

3. Check what is genuinely included

The headline price often does not tell the full story. Always confirm:

• Is setup and takedown included, and how long does each take?
• Are all ingredients, equipment, and packaging included?
• Is staffing included for the full duration?
• What happens if something runs out mid-event?

A reputable company will answer all of these before you ask. If you have to dig for the information, that tells you something.

4. Consider your guests, not just your aesthetic

The most instagrammable station is not always the right one for your guests. A sophisticated tiramisu bar suits a wedding beautifully. A slushy machine goes down equally well at a child's birthday and a corporate summer party. Think about age range, dietary requirements, and the general feel of your event before settling on a service.

5. Ask about the retainer policy before you commit

Most professional hire companies require a deposit or retainer to secure your date — and the non-refundable element is standard practice, not a red flag. What matters is that the policy is clear, transparent, and communicated upfront. If a company is vague about payment terms, be cautious.