Friday, May 24, 2013

Wedding Light Inspiration

Yes folks, it is wedding season again. This is such an exciting time for so many people across the country. Young brides are abuzz trying to decide on the perfect decor for their big day. We want you to be sure and not forget about a very crucial part of your wedding day. The lighting. Now we understand that in these times so many people are trying to plan on a budget. We totally understand, lighting might not rank very highly on the "to purchase for wedding" list. We just think you should consider one thought; A well-lit space, a space that utilizes a very carefully thought out light design is key to achieving the right mood and atmosphere for your wedding and reception. The right lighting can be your best friend. It can actually compliment your decor, while still being an element all of its own.

With that being said, lets move on to a few ideas to make the best of your venue with the perfect wedding lighting.




Don't Fear Color
Many brides are afraid to use very vivid color palettes when it comes to their perfect big day. Who can blame them? If done right it can be stunningly dramatic. If done wrong it can be terribly tacky. Nobody wants people to think "tacky" on their big day. 

Good lighting exists to accentuate you favorite space or design. Try to avoid blanketing your entire space with one solid color. This can be extremely overwhelming. Instead, try accenting and contrasting with complimentary colors to each other and your wedding decor. Such as, pink and yellow. These colors will mix well and not clash with each other if mixed together in one space.

Also, the type of illumination you opt for should vary, if possible, through the day and night. Such as, using softer colored lighting during the meal at your reception. Maybe try taking it up a notch for the party later in the evening. This will help your guests to transition easily. 

Starry Night Skies
It does not get much easier than lighting a venue with light strings. Whether it be mini light strings, LED lights, globe lighting or even curtain lights and everything in  between. The only thing you might want to consider, if you are going to go for a starry night feel, it is best utilized in a almost "blank" space. Something like a tent or a barn. This way you won't have to think about how to incorporate other lighting or decor ideas into your own theme. We have several favorites for weddings but curtain, net and mini lights are a few of the best.

Curtain Lights - These are great for backdrops. If you add a little sheer fabric over it, it will tone it down and give you the feel of a night sky.

Mini Light Strings - These can be used in almost any application. Hang them from the ceiling or wrap them around pillars in the front of your venue. Even outline the ceiling with mini lights to add a little extra illumination. Endless options with these traditional light strings.

Net Lights - These are perfect to hang on the ceiling. It has a steady design but has a beautiful glow and will add a little extra sparkle to an evening reception. 

With this look all you will have to have is LOTS of light strings and a huge imagination. Take several strands of traditional mini light strings, suspend them all from the same point on the ceiling. They will radiate light from the ceiling to the floor. It will also give any space a since of depth, which is perfect for a tent or barn.

Also if you are trying the starry night look in a tent, you could even add fabric. Drape fabric along with the light strings and it will add a little more elegance and soften the light.

Tabletop Decor
There is not much more frustrating then going to a restaurant or dinner that is poorly lit. You can't have good conversation because you can't see the other person or even enjoy your meal because you aren't quite sure what it is. You need to be sure that you guest feel the ambiance but can also enjoy themselves with good lighting. Now in today's wedding light market there are so many cost effective and safer options rather than  traditional candles or mini lights. 



Luminara Candles - LED, battery powered, real wax candles. How great is that? No worry of them burning out, burning a guest or burning down your venue. You can use them over and over again, in your home or for other parties in the future. These are a great little investment.

LED Floralytes - We offer these in two forms now. Submersible and traditional. These are great little battery powered LED lights, they come in multiple colors and work great in all types of applications. Submersible Floralytes are great in floral arrangements  they will illuminate your centerpiece from the bottom and up. just choose them in clear or even to match the color of your floral decor. The traditional Floralytes are great for hanging decorations. Like using them in paper lanterns.

The Great Outdoors
Providing sufficient lighting for an outdoor ceremony or reception will allow the party to last long after the sun light has gone. Look around at the landscape, trees can be your friend and support for your lighting decor.

Globe Lights - Perfect for an outdoor wedding. You can string them from tree to tree and make a really interesting design, plus they give off the perfect amount of light to give you the right ambiance. They come in many sizes and colors. Something to fit every bride and their budget.

Mini Lights - These little fairy lights can be used almost anywhere. Plus, they come in so many spacings, colors and wire colors, something to fit in with any color combo or design idea. You can try stringing a few strands around some of the tree trunks at your venue. This will give you a whimsical feel and a great background for photos.

I hope this helps you to start thinking about your wedding day lighting. It's a once in a lifetime day, be sure to make it your own and make it special. All you need is some lights and imagination!

--
Hannah
All American Christmas Company