What you can hire
Party hire businesses commonly rent wine, champagne, beer and water glasses, plates and bowls, cutlery, serving platters, jugs and drink dispensers. Items usually arrive in crates and go back in the same crates.
How many to order
Start from the guest count and the menu. A drinks party needs more glasses than plates, and many hosts allow more than one glass per guest because glasses get put down and forgotten. A sit-down meal needs a full setting per guest for each course. The hire business will help you work out quantities.
Returning it
Ask whether items must be rinsed or can go back dirty, how breakages and missing items are counted and charged, and when collection is. Get the terms in writing. Your state's consumer protection agency explains your rights if a service is not provided as agreed; Consumer Affairs Victoria's guide is one example (Consumer Affairs Victoria).
Glass in parks
Some councils do not allow glass in their parks or foreshore reserves, so check before you hire glassware for an outdoor party. Our city guides note where it is banned.
Glassware and tableware FAQs
Do I need to wash everything before it goes back?
It depends on the hire business. Some want items rinsed and some prefer them returned as they are. Ask before the party.
What happens with breakages?
Breakages and missing items are usually charged. Ask how they are counted and when you will be told.
Can I add items after I book?
Often, if stock is available. Confirm the final guest count with the hire business as soon as you know it.