Jeremy Harwell via Snippet and Ink
A sparkler wedding exit sure makes a statement, but don’t forget lighting for the ceremony and reception, too!
Your wedding lighting can affect just about everything, from the mood of a party to the energy of a crowd. The linens, food and booze can make a difference, but it’s seriously all about the lighting.
The good (no, great!) news is that sexy lighting is super easy to achieve. Here are a few ways to take the lighting of your next event to the next level, with options for any budget.
Twinkling String Lights or Cafe Lights
Put them everywhere. They’re affordable enough that you can stock up and string them up staircases, along deck railings or tumble a bunch along buffet tables.
Danaea Li Photography via Green Wedding Shoes
Glowing Votives
Votives are the cutest, simplest way to “let there be light” all over your party. Plus, this lighting option costs so little, you can get a lot of bang for your buck. Try clustering them into glowing centerpieces on your reception tables. Feeling crafty? Tie name cards to them, and your votives instantly double as seating cards. Don’t limit your lighting on reception tables. Sprinkle them in the powder room or along a mantel for maximum impact.
Planning tip: Many caterers include basic white votives in their contract, so you can dress them up with some pretty containers or mix in a few fancy ones!
Sweet Poppy Studios via Ruffled
Gold Stripe Tealight Holders by Kate Aspen
Classic Candelabras
Whatever your style, from antique to modern, candelabras serve as centerpieces that tell the story of a romantic evening as the candles drip down throughout the party. Stick with traditional white tapers or choose a pop of color. We love these blue options!
Photo by Rachel May Photography via Weddings Unveiled
Kelly Maughan Photography via Ruffled
Sleek Rope Lighting
Similar to string lighting, rope lights are a bit more pricey but definitely more sleek. As a bonus, they even come in waterproof form ideal for use outdoors. Spin some rope lighting around the base of a tree, or trace the perimeter of the pool. Snaking it along the front walkway will dazzle your guests before they even enter the party itself.
Pretty Paper or Glass Lanterns
Lanterns run the gamut from simple sophistication to dazzling elegance, with something to fit any look and budget. They also double as a design element, so choose from the zillions of traditional, Asian or contemporary styles out there. Lanterns are a great choice if kids are in attendance as they are not as risky as open flame, and not as crushable as tiny string lights.
Steve Cowell Photo via Ruffled
Pinkerton Photography via Ruffled
What’s your favorite way to light a party? What creative ways have you managed around bad lighting? What’s your least favorite kind of lighting and why? Share your thoughts in a comment below.
Happy Planning!
