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Idaho Bell Tents: Beginning a business in a year of change

Posted at 3:49 PM, Dec 23, 2020
and last updated 2020-12-24 09:45:11-05

IDAHO — Christmas is a time when we celebrate family but for many couples, it's also a chance to "pop the question."

A local business called Idaho Bell Tents is working to give those planning a wedding a COVID-19 safe option to celebrate, but it's also an option for the holiday season and every occasion in between.

"You can set up in backyards, in parks. Wherever we have a flat surface we can set it up," explained business owner Dakotah Henderson.

Like many of us, 2020 has been a year of change for Henderson. Not only did she start up Idaho Bell Tents, she and her family also moved away from their hometown.

"In the middle of this pandemic, we sold our home in Council and were living in our camp trailer until we could find a place to rent," Henderson explained.

The business started as a COVID-19 safe activity for her to enjoy with her husband and two daughters, but she quickly realized she could help others--especially couples struggling to celebrate their big day because of the pandemic.

"It's just something that we can do at home that still feels safe," Henderson said. "One of my favorite things about doing this is the joy I get from other people's joy. they're so excited, and I've had people who have cried because it's meant so much to them."

TOMORROW on Idaho News 6: A local company is working to give brides another option during the pandemic! I’ll take you inside Idaho Bell Tents in a special Christmas edition of our #madeinidaho series! 🎄

Posted by Natasha Williams on Wednesday, December 23, 2020

Henderson also does indoor picnics, sleepover setups, and everything in between--plus she offers no contact services to protect her customers.

"We drop everything off, we don't have any contact with you if you want--or we can come and set it up for you if you'd like," she explained.

Through the challenges and change, building the business was a chance for the Henderson family to grow even closer together.

"(I) have the support of my husband and my daughters and my family behind me--I just want them to look up to me and be like 'Oh, I can do something like that, too,'" Henderson said.