Wedding Reception Lighting Basics

I found this great article on theknot.com this week regarding lighting for your
reception, here is an excerpt below!

Wedding Reception Lighting Basics
Think lighting your wedding reception site means flipping on a light switch? If you want to turn your wedding site from standard to simply stunning, you'll probably need to take a more illuminating approach to your decor. "Lighting creates a mood," says event designer Preston Bailey, and when it's done well, lighting can make everything -- including your wedding flowers.

Assess Your Site
If you're planning an evening reception, make sure to visit your site at least once when it's dark outside. Look around the room and see where the fixed lighting is focused. Lights that illuminate the walls, windows, and ceiling can draw attention away from the center of the room -- and you want to keep everyone's eyes on the tables, dance floor, and each other.

Learn Lighting Lingo
Here are the types of lighting commonly used at weddings.

Pin spot - A focused beam of light that shines directly onto an object, like a centerpiece or wedding cake, as a highlight effect.

Color wash - There are a few different types of light fixtures that can create a "wash," which is basically a blanket of colored light covering an entire area.

Gobos - Circular stencils that are put over a light to project a design or pattern. Popular gobo designs are monograms, dates, or any other wedding motifs.

Led Short for light-emitting diodes, LED lights are currently popular for weddings because they use much less electricity (and don't get as hot) than regular, incandescent light bulbs. LEDs are great for color changes and vibrant colors. They're also common in strands and good for accent lighting.

Use Color
Think outside your wedding palette when you use colored lights. If you've used sage throughout your wedding, shy away from green lighting -- it might be too much, and green isn't always flattering. Opt for colors that complement all skin tones, like magenta or a soft rose.

Choose the Right Lights
The layout of your reception site can determine how you're going to use lighting techniques. If your reception site has sprawling ceilings, use pin spot lighting to keep the decor focused on certain details. And use a gobo light if you have a cute, recurring motif to help tie your reception together.

Work with your lighting designer to figure out which type of lighting fits your budget. All of your vendors (whose hard work will be well displayed) and your guests (who will all look great in flattering light) will be happy with the results, and you'll be left with a reception space that's bound to impress.

From: http://wedding.theknot.com/wedding-planning/wedding-reception-planning/articles/wedding-reception-lighting-basics.aspx

Visit theknot.com for more information!