How do you light up a wedding reception?
Lighting a wedding involves more than just switching on the fluorescents or adding a few candles. The options are nearly endless and can get downright technical, but here’s a peek into the basics.
Uplighting is one of the most popular lighting techniques. This little-goes-a-long-way method involves placing clear or colored lights around the perimeter of the room, each of which projects columns of light toward the ceiling. Not only can this give the room a boost of brightness and color, it also showcases your venue’s architectural highlights.
For brides looking to completely transform their reception, intelligent lighting is the premier option. Think of it as stage lighting; intelligent lighting involves automated LED lights, computer programming and the handiwork of a professional lighting designer, which together can produce intricate colors and patterns. “Whether a bride wants modern or rustic, LED lighting can enhance her style,” says
Looking to get your name in lights? Gobos are circular stencils that cover light fixtures, projecting a design or pattern onto the wall or floor. Monograms, wedding dates and personal motifs are all popular designs for wedding-day gobos.
Pin spots are focused beams of white light that are angled to shine directly on an object, highlighting details like centerpieces, the head table or cake table. Pin spots become especially handy once you dim the lights to start your dance, as you can still show off those special details.
Lastly, there are those lighting pieces that do double-duty, not only illuminating the space but also enhancing your décor. Think chandeliers, strings of café lights and lanterns, all of which can be rented from local event companies. And, of course, there’s candlelight, that ever-popular romantic touch.
Now that you know some of the industry lingo, who can help you make your vision come to life? Start off by taking another walk-through of your venue with the site’s event coordinator; they can provide great insight about what they’ve seen done in the space.
