Imagine a magical ambiance, where every corner of your wedding venue is illuminated with a touch of enchantment, creating an atmosphere that captivates and mesmerizes your guests. Event lighting plays a significant role in setting the mood, enhancing the aesthetics, and highlighting the beauty of your special day.
In addition, event lighting helps signal transitions from festivity to festivity. For instance, you can dim the lights during the first dance and feature colorful lights for the reception party. One of the best parts of event lighting is personalizing it. You can select hues matching your color palette or lights aligning with your desired theme.
There are many event lights to choose from for your special day. Here are some popular options:
- Uplighting
- String lights
- Spotlights
- Candles
- Chandeliers
- Custom gobos and monograms
Keep reading to learn more about event lighting and how to brighten your wedding day!
1. Uplighting
Photography: Cassie Valente Photography Venue: Kohl Mansion
Imagine a museum with lights along the floors to create a unique effect on the exhibits. That’s what uplighting is. These event lights are typically positioned upward to shine a wash on the wall’s surface.
Uplighting is a stunning addition to weddings, with the option to swap various colors. So if you want a soft pastel glow, you can achieve that look without it being too bright and harsh. Place these lights evenly around the venue to produce the effect. Note: Your lighting designer will be in charge of the event lights, so all you have to do is share your vision with them.
Uplighting can also accentuate certain venue elements, create dimension, and highlight essential areas, like the sweetheart table or wedding cake. Do you want to draw your guests’ attention to specific details? Uplighting is the option for you!
2. String lights
Photography: Lauren Feddersen Photography
There’s something about string lights that create a fairytale finish. Also known as twinkle lights, string lights are versatile, enhancing indoor and outdoor settings. Planning a garden wedding? Hang string lights in the patio area. Hosting at an indoor venue? Let your string lights shine among the other event lights for an eclectic look.
Opt for soft lighting with warm bulbs or pastel hues for a romantic atmosphere. You can drape the string lights along a gazebo or wrap them around trees for outdoor events. Consider hanging the string lights above the dance floor or guest tables to elevate an indoor venue.
3. Spotlights
If you’ve ever gone to a live concert, you may be familiar with spotlights, fixating on a band and its lead vocalist. The spotlight’s purpose is to illuminate important people and areas. Generally, they use a high-intensity LED bulb and a reflector to form a curved appearance, allowing operators to control the intensity of the light.
Spotlights are perfect for making the couple stand out on their special day. For instance, you can use a spotlight during the vows, for your first dance, and speeches and toasts. These event lights can also accentuate meaningful details, like your wedding cake. Beyond emphasizing certain elements, spotlights also offer other creative effects:
- Textures and patterns
- Custom colors to match your color palette
- Silhouette effects
- Layered cross-lighting
4. Candles
Photography: Holly D. Photography
A classic choice, candles create a warm and intimate atmosphere. You can incorporate candles in your tablescapes with decorative holders, aisle decorations, and outdoor lighting. In addition, you can host a candlelit reception under the stars, repurposing the candles from your ceremony. Note: Keep candles away from flammable items, and don’t leave them unattended.
When couples picture candles, they may envision a vintage three-arm candle holder, but many alternative options are available. For example, pillar candles are thick and have a cylinder shape, ideal for a modern celebration. Taper candles are a classic choice with a slender and long figure. Other candle types include votive candles, floating candles, and tea lights.
If candles are in the cards, the next factor to consider is the candle holder. Here are four common holders to pair with your event lighting:
- Candlesticks: These holders are for taper candles and come in various materials, like wood, metal, and ceramic.
- Lanterns: An enclosed structure, lanterns have transparent sides for the light to peek through.
- Glass candle holders: These are sleek and simplistic holders designed in various shapes and sizes.
- Votive holders: This option is short and made for votive candles.
Considering adding candles to your magical celebration? Try including them in the following ways:
- Group your candles: There’s nothing more eclectic than a collection of candles. Group them into trios on your tablescape for an elegant design.
- Play with size: Make your arrangements interesting by varying the sizes of the candles. Differing heights can create a dynamic display.
- Opt for warm-colored candles: Candles with warm hues feel like a big hug. If you have warm tones in your color palette, consider including warm-colored candles too.
- Set up romantic nooks: Designate a cozy corner (or two!) for group activities and intimate conversations. Then, add a few candles to make the space more welcoming.
5. Chandeliers
Photography: Kat Ma Photography
Chandeliers always add a wow factor to event spaces, making the venue look and feel grand. This event lighting features multiple arms for light bulbs and varies in size and style. For instance, crystal-beaded chandeliers are ornate, embracing classic styles, while modern chandeliers showcase minimalistic shapes and straight lines. At Fantasy Sound, we offer a diverse selection of chandeliers and custom-built event lighting for couples looking for a showstopping touch.
In addition to chandeliers, many lighting designers use techniques like projection mapping to enhance the guest experience. For example, a lighting expert can project patterns onto the venue’s walls or elevate the tablescape with table mapping. You can also cast custom patterns on the dance floor. Projection mapping compliments chandeliers, creating an unforgettable experience for you and your guests.
6. Custom gobos and monograms
Photography: StillNation Photography
Monogram lighting includes projecting a custom design onto a surface, like a couple’s name and wedding date. First, a pro will make a template out of the design. After transferring the digital format onto a metal plate called a gobo, a lighting designer will use project equipment and the gobo to reveal a stunning image.
Custom gobos are a popular choice for celebrations because of the personalization factor. Instead of recreating a modern wedding from Pinterest, monogram lighting allows you to make the event your own. Whether you feature your initials or a symbol that resonates with you and your partner, monogram lighting perfectly ties everything together.
Event lighting options at your fingertips
When crafting your special day, you can breathe life into your vision with the help of event lighting. Your lights can enhance everything from the desired ambiance and wedding theme to the color palette. And fortunately, there are many options to choose from to make this significant milestone shine.
Go beyond décor and personalize your celebration with your favorite event lighting. Incorporating the right lights can immerse your guests in a dreamy atmosphere and highlight your stunning venue.
If you’re ready to take the next step and select the perfect lighting for your special day, contact us today!
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