A Christmas tree can become a focal point for a reception area, a company celebration or a town square. Choosing one starts with the venue and the installation period, rather than simply the height you would like to see in a photograph.

If you are planning an event in the Algarve, gather measurements, venue photographs and dates before requesting a quote. A tree for one evening and a display that stays in place for several weeks need different briefs. This guide explains what to include, without assuming that decorations, lighting, installation or transport are part of every package.

1. Decide where the tree will go

In a lobby, consider the route between the entrance, reception desk and adjoining areas. In an event room, allow for tables and service access as well. For an outdoor location, explain whether it is open, sheltered or exposed, and identify who can approve the installation.

The tree should work with the venue, not make it harder to use. Show the supplier where guests walk, where they might stop for photographs and which routes must remain clear. A simple room plan marking the proposed position can be more useful than a long collection of inspiration pictures.

For a Christmas market, coordinate the display with the children's activity area, stalls and queues. A photo spot needs to be considered as part of the whole layout, rather than as a separate decorative feature.

2. Measure the available space and check access

Record the available height at the proposed position, including light fittings, beams and anything suspended overhead. Measure the width and depth too. A tree's stated height does not tell you how much space its base, decorations or installation arrangement will require.

JumPlay's Christmas tree catalogue lists options ranging from 2.10 to 10 metres, with prices on request. These sizes are a starting point for discussion, not confirmation that every option suits every venue or is available for your dates.

Photograph doorways, corridors, steps and the unloading area. Mention lifts, parking restrictions and supplier access hours. Do not work out delivery requirements from the finished tree alone: the team needs to confirm the installation process for the particular model and venue.

3. Specify the tree, decorations and lighting separately

Describe the look you want: understated, traditional, colourful or coordinated with the event's visual identity. A few references and a preferred colour palette are more useful than asking for an exact copy before the available materials have been discussed.

Ask the quote to identify the tree, ornaments, lights and any additional decorative elements. Decide whether you want just a tree or a wider display around it. The Christmas settings are separate proposals; do not assume one is included with a tree.

For lighting, work with the venue manager to identify power points and establish who will approve the electrical installation. Suitability for indoor or outdoor use, stability and installation arrangements need technical assessment. Do not improvise wiring or fixings to adapt a display to a different location.

4. Give installation, display and collection dates

A useful brief separates the installation appointment, the period when the display stays in place and the removal appointment. Include the hours when the team can work, particularly if the venue will remain open to guests or the public.

For a display lasting several weeks, give specific start and end dates. Ask how that period will be priced rather than multiplying a daily rate or assuming that a monthly price or automatic extension applies. Availability, cost and terms need to be confirmed for the full period.

Agree who will keep an eye on the installation while it is in use, how to report a problem and how changes to the plan will be handled. Outdoors, ask the team to assess the location and establish what should happen if conditions change.

5. Send a brief that makes quotes comparable

Gather the following details into one message before contacting a supplier:

  • The town, venue and proposed position, with photographs and available measurements.
  • Whether the display will be indoors or outdoors, and the venue manager's contact details.
  • Installation and removal dates and access windows, plus the full display period.
  • The preferred height or visual effect, colours and decorative elements.
  • Delivery access, the unloading area and available information about power.

When comparing quotes, check what each amount covers: transport, installation, removal, decorations, lighting and any additional terms. If an alternative size or arrangement is proposed, ask for it to be clearly identified. Requesting a quote does not confirm a booking.

To discuss an option with JumPlay, browse the Christmas catalogue and send your venue, dates and a few photographs of the space. The final configuration and terms will be confirmed before you proceed.