Are you planning an event? Whether it is a birthday party, a wedding, a concert, or a big company event, you will need equipment. This could include sound systems, lighting, stages, projectors, or even food trucks. But here is where many people get confused: Should you go with dry hire or wet hire?
If these words sound new to you, don’t worry. In this blog, we will explain how they are different and which one might be best for your event. We will also guide you in deciding which option suits your event best. Let’s dive in.
What is a dry hire?
Dry hire means renting equipment without any staff. So, for example, if you rent a stage or a lighting system on a dry hire basis, the rental company just gives you the items. You or your team is responsible for setting it up, using it, and packing it away.
Why dry hire might be a good choice
Dry hire is great when you already have skilled people. Maybe you have hired your own DJ, lighting person, or sound engineer. Or maybe your venue already provides people who can handle the equipment. Here is why some event planners love dry hire:
a. More control
You or your team can manage how everything works. You can arrange the lights how you want, use your own staff, and keep full control of your event.
b. Lower cost
Dry hire is usually cheaper than wet hire because you only pay for the equipment, not the people running it. It is excellent if you are on a budget.
c. Flexibility with staff
You can bring your own team or hire freelancers. If you already know someone who is great with sound or lights, this saves money and keeps things simple.
d. Good for experienced planners
If you plan events often and know what you are doing, dry hire lets you move fast. You don’t need help, you just need the right tools.
Remember
With dry hire, you need to know how to use the equipment or have someone who does. If something goes wrong and you don’t have help, that can cause big problems during your event.
What is wet hire? (Why is it safer?)
Wet hire means you rent equipment with trained staff. So when you rent a sound system, the rental company also sends someone to set it up, run it, and pack it away. You are not just hiring the tools, you are hiring the people, too.
Why is wet hiring a smart choice?
Wet hire is perfect if you don’t want to worry about anything. The company handles everything, so you can focus on the fun stuff like welcoming guests or enjoying the show. Here is why many people pick wet hire:
a. Peace of mind
You don’t have to worry about technical stuff. If the microphone stops working or the lights blink, the experts are already there to fix it fast.
b. Saves time
The company sets everything up and takes it down. That means less work for you and your team. You can relax before and after the event.
c. Professional service
You get people who know how to use the equipment the right way. They will make sure everything runs smoothly, so your event looks and sounds great.
d. Fewer mistakes
Let’s face it, if you or your team don’t know how to run a soundboard or lighting desk, things might go wrong. Here, wet hire will help you avoid all the blunders.
But be careful
Wet hire costs more than dry hire because you are paying for equipment and trained staff. However, some companies, such as AV Productions, include basic services as part of their complimentary packages.
Dry hire vs. wet hire, and what is the difference?
Let us break down these two hiring options and compare how they differ.
| Feature | Dry Hire | Wet Hire |
| Staff Included? | No | Yes |
| Cost | It is Lower | It is Higher |
| Setup & Pack Down | You handle it on your own. | The AV hire company handles it. |
| Best For | Skilled teams, tight budgets | Beginners, stress-free planning |
| Control | Full control | Shared with experts |
We can conclude it like this: dry hire offers freedom and savings, while wet hire provides ease and expertise. However, both are useful, and it just depends on your requirements and affordability.
Final thoughts: Which one to choose
The best choice depends on your event, budget, and how much help you need. Dry hire is great for people who know what they are doing and want to save money. Wet hire is better for those who want peace of mind and professional help.Both are good options, and both can help make your event amazing. Just think about what is best for your situation. There is no wrong choice, just the right fit for you. Need sound gear, lights, stages, or even AV support for your next event? Now you know what to ask for.
