Bright Ideas for Wedding Lighting

The wedding dress, the cake top, the favors, the flowers, the decorations... But how important in the scheme of your wedding is the lighting?

Lighting is a huge underlying element in setting the atmosphere for your wedding. When well planned, it will make every component of your wedding look even more stunning. The way a location is illuminated can take the identical site from standard to picturesque.

Work With Your Location

Early in the planning stages of your wedding make a point to visit your site during the time of day you will be having your reception. Note where the fixed lighting is located around the room and the direction of where the light falls. Discover the type of lighting your venue uses and see if you can work with it. For example, if the only source is fluorescent lighting, be sure to think of alternatives to remove this type of unflattering lighting. If the luminosity is dominant away from the center of the room think of lighting techniques to make guests focus on the tables, the dance floor, on you, and each other. Inquire about any lighting and power restrictions, such as the lighting of candles or the installation of portable lighting.

The Color of Light

Take into consideration, even though light can look white, it always has a color temperature ranging from yellowish orange to violet blue depending on the source. Light from lamps, candles, or fire tends to be on the warm golden side. Battery operated lights and electrical lights tend to be on the cool blue side. Light with magenta and rose tones flatter skin tones and adds an atmosphere of warmth to a room. Cool lighting seems more bright and directly contributes to a contemporary atmosphere.

Lighting From the Outside

Outside lighting serves many purposes including ensuring guests can see the steps into the reception hall and to decorate the entrance. Wedding luminaries offer a brightened pathway for guests while look breathtaking against a midnight blue sky. If real candles or fire are not permitted, consider pseudo tealights placed in sea animal, snowflake, or classic heart glass candle holders to add flair to the walkway or entrance.

Focal Light

Combine transparent mediums with non-traditional lighting for rich looking, lighted centerpieces. Use mystic crystals with miniature diamond lights to create an icy, sparkling base for floral arrangements. For a more traditional and warm focal point, arrange varied sizes of pillar candles and embellish the bases with foliage of your choice. For an updated look try using square pillar candles. Blend transparent tulle with wedding light garlands around your head table to create a dreamy feeling.

Consider A Lighting Professional

If budget allows, consider hiring a lighting designer to install specialty lighting at your location. This will allow you to add special uplighting to focus on your wedding cake or head table. Your disc jockey may also have lighting equipment to shine textures, colors, or even your monogram on the dance floor.

With a little creativity and thinking, you can make your special day and precious accessories truly shine!

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