Posted in Wedding Tips

Lighting is the most underrated part of planning a wedding today. Nothing sets the mood like a sparkling runway for your reception entrance, a dramatic backdrop to the cake and other focal points, or a sensual blaze that falls on your first dance. Details like bridesmaids’ shoes may go unnoticed, but the glow of your event will set the tone your guests will remember for years to come. Take this into consideration as you decide how to illuminate your wedding.

First, decide on the mood you want to convey at different points throughout your day. If your ceremony is at a charming church and your reception at an upscale venue, the lighting is going to be quite different. Even during the reception, there are special moments you´ll want lit differently. Would you like a party-ready, flashbulb entrance, or maybe something quieter and romantic like a twinkle-lit archway? Do you want sensual, candle-lit tables, or something more bold and dramatic during dinner like a crystal-draped chandelier? Consider the mood you want, then work with a professional who will focus on practicalities such as making lighting affordable, photo-friendly, safe, easily-controlled, and customized.

One popular way to customize lighting is emblazoning monogrammed spotlights on the wall or floor. Monograms can be as bold or subtle as you like and look best when there is a sharp contrast, such as a dramatic cobalt blue against a dark wall.

Visit your site at the same time your event will be held to determine where and what type of lighting you would like to use.  In a venue with drab walls, utilize backdrops to transform the room. Drape mesh overlay that`s in your color scheme from the ceiling to the floor as if it were a tent, then use twinkle lights, striking spotlights, crystals, or whimsical orbs to illuminate the backdrop and bring personality to the room.

If your venue doesn´t give you that much freedom with lighting, work with an expert to create a beautifully lit focal point you can add to the room. It could be spotlights on a stunning cake, a flirty archway entrance, glitzy dance floor cover, or an eye-catching tree dazzled with crystals or small candles. You may want to have just a color wash and have the color change throughout the event, i.e., gold tones for the cocktail hour, blue while guests are eating, and orange and pink while the crowd is dancing.

Candles are the most time-tested and romantic form of light. Use them with care. First, make sure they´re in fire-proof and child-friendly places. The secret to candles is irregularity. Arrange different sizes and shapes along mismatched levels to add mystery and make the enlightened objects dance.

Your lighting designer can help you figure out the best type of lighting for your budget.  Whatever lighting you decide on, don`t underestimate the importance of the rays. They´ll be the backdrop of the pictures and memories you and your guests will remember as your perfect day.