For as long as I can remember, lighting has been one of my favorite parts of event space set-up. Unfortunately, it also tends to be overlooked in most people's plans.
Maybe one of the reasons why people overlook lighting is because if you don't know what to think about, it has the potential to seem a little boring. But don't be fooled! Picking lighting can be a fun and creative process and this week I have made it my goal to share a few ideas I have found inspiring for bringing some light to your event's atmosphere.
Hanging Lighting
1. Assorted Glass Fixtures
Photo courtesy of weddbook.com
The use of a multi-sized glass fixtures is a trend I have not only been seeing in event spaces, but also in a lot of restaurants. These fit well with the sort of rustic feel that has been trending in the past year or so, especially in weddings. The fun part about these fixture set-ups is that you have a variety of choices to work with: vintage light bulbs, glass spheres, shaped pendants, etc.
Hanging these fixtures from a thin cord or string (when there is a candle placed inside) will help draw the eye to your beautiful pendant choice and give your event space a warm and light-hearted atmosphere.
Keep in mind that it is easier to find places to hang these fun pendents from when you have a ceiling to work with. That being said, if you have the proper set up with a tent or other outdoor structure, this same concept will apply beautifully.
2. Lanterns
Classic Lanterns
Photo courtesy of glitterinc.com
Paper Lanterns
Photo courtesy of registrylove.com
3. Moroccan Lanterns/Hanging Strings
This might just be my recent obsession, but I love Moroccan Lanterns because they have so much potential to add a unique atmosphere to your event. Not only are these fixtures beautiful, but depending on the variety you find, they can reflect a multitude of colors and patterns through their colored glasses and cut outs.
Table Lighting
1. Mason Jars
Mason Jar Lighting
Photo courtesy of beautyandbedlam.com
Oh, the all-mighty mason jar. The use of these little rustic-chic, second-hand jars extends far beyond the world of lighting. As anyone who frequents Pinterest is already well-aware of, these guys have quickly found their places in all corners of event decor.
Nevertheless, mason jars are a quick, inexpensive way to create interesting table lighting set-ups. Not to mention, they've been pretty trendy recently.
2. Moroccan Lanterns
Moroccan Lantern with Colored Glass
Photo courtesy of lmprophoto.com/blog
Moroccan Lantern with Clear Glass
Photo courtesy of tickledpink.typepad.com
Heard enough about lanterns yet? I hope the answer is no, because I'm going to give them one more plug here before putting them to rest for the day.
I am actually a huge fan of Moroccan lanterns, mainly because the shapes and colored glass create interesting visual appeal when set against a solid-color table top or tablecloth. Obviously, this choice will depend on the theme of the event, but they are a fun way to add shape and color to a table's aesthetic appeal.
Also, if you feel so inclined, these lanterns also can function as great take-away gifts (if you don't have plans to keep them for yourself).
Outdoor Lighting
1. Candle Light
Photo courtesy of weddbook.com
A great way to add ambiance to an outdoor evening event is to create light paths with candles. The options available to you in essentially endless, from custom designs (as seen above) to lighted pathways, and beyond.
One thing to be wary of, however, is that some event spaces will not allow open flame candles, especially in areas with grass. So be sure to contact your event space before setting to work on your dream design!
2. String Lights
Photo courtesy of elizabethannedesigns.com
String lights are very likely the first thing that comes to mind when people think of outdoor lighting for events. What I love about string lights is how they are simple solutions to defining large, outdoor spaces without making people feel constricted or claustrophobic. Not to mention, string lights are perfect for adding little extra touch of festivity.
Closing Notes: It's needless to say that there are plenty of other forms of event lighting, from spotlights, to floor lights, to wall mounts, and beyond. But I hope you can see from the quick taste I've given you that there is plenty of room for creativity when considering lighting options for your event space!
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