IT’S A CRAZY WORLD WE ARE LIVING IN RIGHT NOW and there is a good chance that you have had to postpone your bright, summer wedding to the fall or winter. As you adjust your wedding plans, consider adding lighting to your wedding design as it is the perfect way to add a stunning, decorative element that will make your wedding look unique. It really packs a cost-effective punch and makes quite the impression after the sun sets.
1. Uplighting: Light ‘em up! Uplighting is the foundation of a good lighting design and is so cost effective. Simply saturating the walls of your venue makes such an incredible transformation in the space. It is also fantastic for highlighting architectural moments, like ornate columns or textured walls. Blush or candlelight colored uplighting will always look timeless and romanticize the space. Quick tip: As you pick your vendor for your uplighting, be sure to ask about the amount of coverage your room will have. Often times, packages are sold with a quantity listed with no regards to what space you have booked. Vendors that specialize in lighting will recommend the proper amount for your venue.
2. Pinspot lighting: How much are you spending on those floral centerpieces? Don’t let them get lost in the pictures! Be sure to invest in pinspot lighting for your centerpieces. Pinspots are small, discreet fixtures that project small focused pools of light and act as a spotlight for your centerpieces. They are very reasonably priced and will really help your centerpieces pop. It’s also great for you cake, too!
3. Patterned lighting: Thanks to Pinterest, there is no shortage of twinkle lights and bistro lights at weddings. While beautiful and elegant, there are other options to consider that can showcase more of your personality. Patterned lighting use gobos to add texture, patterns, and even your monogram. They can be projected on walls, ceilings, and even dance floors. Starry night, rosette bouquets, and forest projections are just some of the 1000s of pattern designs to choose from. Quick tip: Venues with at least 13 ft tall ceilings are ideal for patterned lighting. With lower ceilings, there is a chance that the lighting fixtures will shine light in your guests’ eyes.
4. Don’t be afraid of color: You definitely want your wedding to stand the test of time, but don’t be afraid to add a pop of color. We often find that couples opt to have a neutral blush or champagne uplighting color scheme during dinner and then after the first dances they do a
dramatic change and shift the colors to a bold purple or blue. It really gets guests out on the dance floor! Fun fact: People are much more confident dancers in darker lighting and after a drink.
5. Turn down the house lights: Atmospheric lighting is completely lost if your venue doesn’t dim or turn off their lights. Ask your venue manager to turn them down and for them to tell the staff that you want it dark.
Thank you to Jacqueline Klene and Exclusive Events, Inc. for contributing this story.
