erento’s Blog

This was the moment that 2009′s X Factor came to an emotional finale, with people’s favourite Joe McElderry singing his way to a stunning top spot. The 18-year-old student from South Shields – the same home town as his mentor, the gorgeous Cheryl Cole – performed magnificently throughout the competition and stole the hearts of fans up and down the country. Over 10 million votes were cast on the final day – proving the staggering popularity of the show – and Joe came out on top with around 61% of the votes. Congratulations Joe!

For all wannabe pop stars out there, we have four essential items for hire on erento that are ideal to start honing your craft. If you plan to show up for auditions in 2010, get practising now and give yourself the competitive edge!

1. Microphone hire

It’s one thing singing in the shower but something else completely to project professionally through a microphone in the way X Factor contestants are expected to. If you’re serious about your pop career, learning ‘stagecraft’ is an essential part of your education and that includes correct microphone technique. Hire a classic vocal mic from as little as £5 a day.

2. PA hire

A PA system takes the signal from the microphone and pumps it out the speakers for the whole auditorium to hear. Hire one together with your microphone for the full professional effect.

3. Jukebox hire

Some people go for karaoke machines, but another great way to practice your vocal technique is singing along to the original track. You could do it to a record. But for that authentic vintage feel, why not hire a classic Gazelle jukebox. Ideal for rock n’ roll classics.

4. Mirror hire

When it comes to the X Factor, looks and dance moves count almost as much as your vocal performance. Hire a full length standing mirror to coax your quiff to maximum effect, check you profile and perfect your spins and turns before the big audition!

With the festive season upon us and so many Christmas parties and events to organise, here we offer 10 top tips on what to rent to get your party swinging. The beauty of erento is that it brings together a wide range of suppliers under one virtual roof. Think of it as a massive rental shopping mall. This means you haven’t far to go to find everything you need for that great Xmas do. Read on for ideas on what to hire …

1. Christmas Tree

No Christmas is complete without a beautifully decorated tree under which to place your presents. For businesses who need to rent in a Xmas tree for the season, look no further than these excellent large trees. They will be delivered, decorated and taken down again once Christmas has passed for another year.

2. Seasonal decorations

Equally important are some glorious Chirstmas decorations to brighten up the room. Don’t delay! Get your tinsel, wreaths and other shiny sparkly Xmas baubels today.

3. Smoke Machine

If you’re organising a Christmas party or disco a smoke machine is a great addition. But it’s not just for parties! Perhaps you are staging a Nativity play and want a bit smoke for atmosphere. Whatever your need for smoke, a smoke machine produces it.

4. String Lights

Ever wondered what it would be like to have a Christmas scene without string lights to create that cosy nostalgic Xmas mood? It’s simply unthinkable.

5. Cocktail Bar

No Xmas party, by the company or otherwise, would be complete without a great cocktail bar. Get in the Xmas spirit and serve seasonal cocktails, with plenty of crushed ice!

6. Snow Machine

If there’s one thing that just about everyone loves but can never be guaranteed to happen it’s a white Christmas. These snow machines will do the trick though, whatever the weather.

7. Snowman Costume

Entertain the kids by not only building a snowman in the garden (if it snows), but by dressing up as a snowman and running around the house like a giant frozen water man-resembling loony. They’ll love you for it.

8. Snowdrop Earrings

What better way to have a glamorous Christmas than with these earrings in the shape of snowdrops? Well, you could jet off to Zermatt for a spot of heli-skiing then do apres ski wearing a mink coat. But that’s not what Christmas is about. It’s about baubels, tinsel and everything that glitters – including snowdrop shaped earrings. Get ‘em before they melt!

9. BBQ Grill

Not the most obvious Christmas hire item, but not every British family chooses to celebrate Christmas in the traditional way. If you’re bored of roast turkey or simply cannot stand to be inside on the holiday, fire up the BBQ grill, wrap up warm and grill a few sausages and bits of marinated chicken.

10. Coach

While for many Christmas is a time for spending time with the family, others prefer to avoid the family and head out for a day trip. Hiring a coach is just the ticket for a large group. Of course, if you do want to be together with the whole family on the big day, what better way to round everyone up and get to the same event than in a lovely big coach?

However you end up spending Christmas this year, we wish you a very merry one!

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