Whether you’re planning a wedding or a special event, hiring red carpet adds that touch of Hollywood glamour that turns any event into an unforgettable experience. More than just a stretch of crimson fabric, a red carpet symbolises luxury, exclusivity, and star power. It’s the first thing your guests will see, setting the tone for an evening of glitz and sophistication. In a world where first impressions count, the simple act of renting a red carpet can transform an ordinary event into something truly amazing.
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Can you Hire a Red Carpet?
Yes, you can indeed hire a red carpet for your event, and it’s easier than you might think. Red carpets can be used for a wide range of occasions to add that touch of elegance and glamour to your wedding or celebration. Here at Partylights, we make hiring red carpet simple and affordable. Whether you’re organising a small, intimate gathering or a large-scale extravaganza, we have a red carpet rental option to suit your needs.
Why Choose a Red Carpet for Your Event?
Using a red carpet for your event creates a designated space where everyone becomes a star, encouraging guests to stand a little taller, smile a little brighter, and feel genuinely special. Not only this, but it can the presence of a red carpet often comes with an implicit invitation for photography, allowing guests to capture their “celebrity moment” and share it with others.
The Psychology of Red Carpets
Psychologically, the colour red is deeply significant. Across many cultures, the colour red is associated with power, passion, and importance. When we see a red carpet, our brains instantly recognise it as a signal of prestige and exclusivity. This psychological impact is why red carpets continue to be used not just in entertainment, but in diplomacy and business as well.
The red carpet creates a sense of anticipation and excitement, making those who walk on it feel special while also drawing the attention and admiration of onlookers. It’s a simple yet powerful tool that taps into our innate responses to colour and symbolism, effectively transforming any event into a memorable, high-status affair.
Creating a VIP Experience
The first Hollywood premiere was in 1922 for the silent adventure movie ‘Robin Hood’ starring Douglas Fairbanks and Wallace Beery. Held at Grauman’s Egyptian Theatre, this was the first movie premiere to use a red carpet and it has set the tone for glittering, high-profile events ever since.
Hiring a red carpet is no longer just for Hollywood premieres. Whether you’re hosting a corporate gathering, launching a new product, or celebrating a milestone, rolling out a rented red carpet instantly elevates the atmosphere, making every guest feel like a VIP.
Enhancing Photo Opportunities
From the initial step onto the carpet to the final moments of the night, hiring a red carpet weaves a thread of exclusivity and glamour through the event and provides photo opportunities a-plenty. This not only enhances the individual experience of your guests but also generates excitement and plenty of opportunities for social media sharing and further media exposure.
4 Types of Events Perfect for Red Carpet Hire
While red carpets may conjure images of Hollywood premieres and star-studded award shows, their allure and versatility extend far beyond the realm of celebrity. In fact, a wide array of events can benefit from the touch of glamour and excitement that a red carpet brings.
From corporate galas that aim to impress stakeholders, to weddings where every couple deserves to feel like royalty, the red carpet has the power to elevate any occasion. A red carpet turns your gathering into a talk-of-the-town affair that guests will remember long after the last toast is made.
1. Corporate Galas and Award Ceremonies
Hiring a red carpet for these events adds a layer of prestige and excitement that can transform a standard business function into a memorable celebration of success. Award ceremonies present the perfect opportunity to roll out the red carpet, quite literally.
For corporate galas, the red carpet creates a grand entrance that immediately signals to attendees that this is no ordinary meeting – it’s a special occasion worthy of their finest attire and full attention. A red carpet honours the achievements being recognised at award ceremonies, while also providing an ideal backdrop for photos that will commemorate the event. The red carpet experience can boost employee morale, making team members feel valued and important. It also impresses clients and stakeholders, reinforcing your company’s commitment to excellence and attention to detail.
2. Film Premieres and Entertainment Events
When it comes to film premieres and entertainment events, hiring red carpet isn’t just an option – it’s practically a necessity. A red carpet serves as the iconic backdrop where stars, directors, and producers make their grand entrance, creating those picture-perfect moments that dominate entertainment news. It’s not just about the celebrities though; a red carpet elevates the experience for all attendees, making everyone feel like a star as they arrive. For music award shows, theatre openings, or even high-profile book launches, the red carpet sets the stage for anticipation, creating a natural focal point which increases visibility and press opportunities for the event.
3. Weddings and Special Celebrations
Imagine turning your wedding into a truly glamorous red-carpet affair. Hiring a red carpet for a special occasion adds a touch of Hollywood glamour that can transform your event from memorable to absolutely unforgettable. For weddings, a red carpet creates a grand entrance for the bride and groom, making them feel like true celebrities on their big day. It also provides a stunning backdrop for photos, ensuring that every arrival snapshot is frame-worthy. Proms, milestone birthdays, anniversaries, or graduation parties can all benefit from a red carpet, making the guest of honour feel truly special
4. Fashion Shows and Product Launches
A product launch or fashion show where you showcase your latest designs can be put in the spotlight with the addition of a red carpet at the entranceway. Savvy companies are using red carpets in their event strategy to bring a real buzz to the event and get people talking. Hiring a red carpet is the ultimate way to make a bold statement and set the stage for success. When unveiling a new product, you want to capture attention, create buzz, and leave a lasting impression—and nothing says “special occasion” like the glamour of a red carpet.
The Red Carpet Hiring Process
Lights, camera action! It’s time to hire a red carpet for your next big event or celebration. When you use a red carpet hire professional like Partylights, we make the process simple and can guide you every step of the way.
Measuring Your Space
Red carpets are most commonly rolled out at the entranceway to a venue, but it might be that you use your red carpet as an aisle for weddings, or leading the way through the crowd to the stage for award ceremonies. Before you start dreaming of paparazzi and autographs, you’ll want to know exactly how much carpet you need to create your walk of fame. Take a tape measure and measure the space where you envisage the red carpet being laid. Don’t forget to account for any stairs or curves – we can’t have our VIPs (that’s you and your guests) tripping on their way to stardom.
Booking in Advance
Once you’ve got your measurements, don’t wait! Busy seasonal events such as school proms or summer weddings mean that certain times of the year get incredibly busy for your local red carpet hire professional so you’ll want to reserve your red carpet well ahead of time. Book that carpet as soon as you know the date of your event to avoid disappointment.
Delivery and Installation Options
If you are looking to hire a red carpet in London, we can help. We provide red carpet delivery and installation for events in London and the South East. Our expert team will assist you with your requirements and then deliver the red carpet to your venue before setting it up and ensuring the scene is laid for your occasion. Using a professional means it will be well-secured and minimal chance of tripping – noone wants to trip as they make their grand entrance! We will also return to disassemble and remove your hired red carpet once the event draws to a close.
Accessorising Your Red Carpet
There are numerous ways to accessorise your red carpet to give it a personal touch, or dial up the glamour as the event requires. Previous red carpet hire clients even hired a couple of friendly “security guards” to man the ropes as a playful touch!
Stanchions and Ropes
Nothing says “exclusive event” quite like those iconic velvet ropes. Use VIP red carpet ropes to guide your guests along the carpet, creating an air of anticipation and importance. Pair classic red velvet ropes with gold or silver stanchions for a classic look.
Professional Lighting
The right lighting can transform your red carpet from a simple walkway into a path of glory. Illuminate your red carpet with outdoor fairy lights for added sparkle and to mimic the effect of camera flashes, or why not add to the sense of intrigue by pairing your red carpet with a set of dramatic flambeaux to flank the entranceway? Place small LED lights along the edges of your carpet for a subtle yet glamorous glow If you’re feeling ‘extra’, why not rent an LED light projector with the event name or guest of honour? It’s perfect for photo backgrounds and will really set the stage and dazzle your guests.
How to Hire a Red Carpet in the South East
Hiring red carpet in the south east has never been easier. Simply call the friendly team here at Partylights and let us know the date of your event, your red carpet requirements, and leave the rest to us. Whether you are planning a small party or a large scale event, Partylights can provide you with all the event lighting and red carpet hire you could need.
FAQs
How much to hire a red carpet?
The cost of hiring a red carpet can vary widely depending on several factors. These include the size of the carpet, the duration of the rental and the location. Our team can provide you with a bespoke quote so just get in touch!
Where can I hire a red carpet?
Red carpets can be hired from various sources including event rental companies and party hire professionals like Partylights. Hiring red carpet near London? well it has never been easier. Simply call the friendly team here at Partylights and let us know the date of your event
Do I need to clean the carpet before returning it?
We will professionally clean the red carpet after its return as part of our service. However, we ask that all customers aim to return the carpet free of major stains or damage.
Can I get the red carpet installed for me?
We offer a full red carpet installation service to ensure proper and safe installation. We can also install your lighting preferences as all part of the package, so please do let us know your requirements for a fully comprehensive, personalised quotation.
How far in advance should I book a red carpet?
It’s best to book your red carpet hire as early as possible, especially for peak event seasons. Aim to reserve your carpet at least 2-4 weeks in advance for smaller events, and 1-3 months ahead for larger events
Do I need any special equipment to lay the carpet?
For smaller carpets, you might only need double-sided tape to secure edges. Larger installations may require carpet stretchers, knee kickers, or other specialised tools. As part of our professional installation service to you, we provide all of this when you hire our red carpet for your event.
What if the weather is bad on the day of my outdoor event?
We will discuss weather contingencies with you as part of our agreement. Consider renting a carpet suitable for outdoor use or having a backup indoor location.
How to hire a red carpet in London
Hiring red carpet in the London has never been easier. Simply call the friendly team here at Partylights and let us know the date of your event, your red carpet requirements, and leave the rest to us.
