How 2025 Tariff Changes Affect Event Rentals | TableMade

Tariffs and Event Rentals: What You Need to Know

Hi Friend,

The world of events is all about timing, detail, and a little bit of magic. Every so often, outside factors try to shake things up. Recently, new U.S. tariffs have been making headlines, and while they might not be the most glamorous topic, they can have a quiet ripple effect on event rentals. We are breaking it down simply: what is changing, what it means for the industry, and how TableMade is keeping your experience just as seamless as ever.

Long Story Short

Earlier this year, the U.S. introduced a 10 percent universal tariff on all imported goods, along with higher rates for certain materials like steel, aluminum, and copper, with some reaching 50 percent. Products from specific countries, including China, are also seeing additional layered tariffs.

For event rentals, this matters because many specialty items such as elegant chairs, fine linens, or unique tabletop details are imported. These added costs can influence availability, lead times, and for some companies, pricing.

What This Means for You

For clients, the most common ripple effects in the industry could be:

• Longer lead times for certain imported products

• Price adjustments from companies directly impacted by higher import costs

• More limited availability for niche or specialty items sourced internationally

Where We Source and the Current Tariff Landscape

Our inventory is global by design. Each piece is chosen for its craftsmanship, beauty, and ability to elevate your table. Here is where our collections originate, and the latest U.S. tariff rates for those countries:

• France, Portugal, Italy (European Union)
  Our fine flatware, glassware, and artisanal tabletop pieces often come from these European sources. As of August 7, 2025, EU imports face a 15 percent tariff. These regions are known for timeless craftsmanship, and our relationships there allow us to secure unique, heirloom-quality pieces that are difficult to replicate elsewhere.

• China
  Many specialty manufacturing hubs for tabletop and décor are in China. We source such items from US distributors like Fortessa or Libbey. Currently, imports from China carry a combined 30 percent tariff, made up of a 10 percent base rate plus a 20 percent surcharge. The temporary relief period ends August 12, 2025, which could influence sourcing for companies without established supply chains.

• Canada
  Canada is a trusted source for structural and foundational rental items. As of early August 2025, most Canadian imports face a 35 percent tariff, up from 25 percent. While USMCA agreements can sometimes allow for exemptions, these changes still affect suppliers without pre-negotiated contracts.

• Indonesia
  Indonesia’s vibrant craftsmanship contributes to some of our more detailed or hand-finished décor pieces. As of July 7, 2025, imports from Indonesia face a 32 percent tariff under new reciprocal trade measures.

How TableMade is Navigating Tariff Changes

Here is the part we are most proud of: our prices have not changed since 2021, and they will remain the same for the rest of this year. We have always sourced and planned with intention, building strong relationships with domestic partners, investing in versatile, timeless pieces, and purchasing inventory well ahead of demand.

By diversifying our sourcing across multiple countries, we avoid being over-reliant on one market. We also work with U.S.-based artisans and manufacturers wherever possible, reducing exposure to import tariffs altogether. This strategy allows us to absorb these shifts without passing them on to you.

Why This Matters for Your Event

Your rental experience is about more than the pieces themselves. It is about confidence — knowing your order will arrive on time, your tablescape will look exactly as you envisioned, and your budget will stay exactly where you planned it. Tariff changes can disrupt all three for some companies, but at TableMade, our early planning, varied sourcing, and close supplier relationships keep those disruptions far from your event.

The Bottom Line

Tariffs may be adding noise to the market, but at TableMade, we are keeping your experience beautifully uninterrupted. Consider it one less detail to worry about so you can focus on the parts of your event that truly matter. From the first inspiration to the final place setting, we are here to keep the magic on the table and the stress off your plate.

With style,

Tammy L. Noel

P.S If you're curious of the full list by country, take a look here: https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/07/further-modifying-the-reciprocal-tariff-rates/