This is the July article I wrote for the Shore Bride Magazine website. You can also check out this article here.

The reception is about to begin. The tables are set, the centerpieces and cake are just amazing…yet something is missing. And you can’t quite put your finger on it. Then it hits you – you forgot to add lighting. This seems to be a common occurrence. It’s either overlooked just because it’s usually not on a bridal planning checklist or it’s a cost issue.

What most people don’t realize is lighting can be the difference between having a nice celebration to a spectacular one. It can actually make or break an event. But have no fear, the purpose of this article is to en”light”en you on the importance of lighting. It goes without saying that having just the right lighting is one of the easiest ways to transform your event into a classy, elegant celebration.

Once you have found a lighting company you want to work with, a consultant will go over with you what aspects of your event you want to showcase or enhance. Keeping that in mind, it’s best to have a general idea of what lighting has to offer. Lighting can come in a variety of colors, shapes or even shadows. The different lighting usage depends on the effect you are looking for, the space where your event is being held, and of course your budget.

General breakdown of the types of lighting and usage:

Pillar/Architecture like the name implies is usually used to light up a pillar or a specific narrow strip of wall, architecture or even exterior trees and greenery.

Wall Washes are strips of lighting that shine over a wide area like a wall or sidewalls of a tent. This can also include shadow designs on the wall like leaves.

Pin/Accent Lighting is lighting that lights up a specific item like a centerpiece or chandelier. The lighting placement can be from below or come from above.

Gobo is where the names or monograms of the couple are projected on the dance floor or wall.

Once you make the decision to make lighting a part of your celebration it becomes one aspect of your planning you don’t want to be without. No matter what your budget, don’t deprive yourself of the beauty of lighting. You will find if you have to, cut costs elsewhere. Keep this in mind – think of all the time, money, and effort that has been put into this one magical day; shouldn’t it be in the spotlight?

Here is another great wedding color scheme idea by our event designer Mackenna Schon. You can also check out the design board at the Shore Bride Magazine website.