Planning Tips :: Wedding Budget Breakdown :: Lighting

Lighting is an element that will drastically change the look of your wedding! I know this will be my longest post yet, because it's my fave! With all of the different aspects of décor you could incorporate into your wedding day, this is always my first suggestion. The suggested amount of your budget to put towards lighting is 5%, so a $20,000 wedding budget would have a $1,000 lighting budget. You can always shift things around with your budget categories if you want to add or take away from that amount.

Photo by Z Media :: Lighting by Michéll Events

Photo by Z Media :: Lighting by Michéll Events

First off, candles are always a wonderful way to add romantic ambiance to your ceremony, cocktail hour and reception without breaking the bank. You can dim the lights in any room and let the candlelight take over! Be sure to verify that your venue allows candles before you plan to go this route. If you're allowed, use them every chance you get!

A professional lighting package will get you some ooh's and aah's from your guests. Spotlights for important things like the dance floor for your first dance and special moments, cake table to highlight the beautiful masterpiece, color wash lighting on the walls to give the room ambiance, and you can even have individual pin spotlights on your centerpieces to highlight them! Adding a lighting package can really add to the wow factor, so look into it any way you can!

Lighting by Michéll Events

A gobo is another great lighting addition you could include. It could be your names, monogram, a logo for your event., anything...and it's displayed on the wall, dance floor, or any other blank surface you want to display your detailed design on. Most lighting companies can provide an in-stock gobo or you can order one personalized with your names or initials.

Lit paper lanterns are a wonderful and inexpensive option for lighting and décor. It creates a great effect and they can be hung over any space or area that you want to accent. Over the dance floor, entry way, cake table, gift table, or a number of other places.

String lighting is another great choice for both indoor and outdoor events. With so many colors and sizes available, you can create some amazing looks with string lighting!

Photo by Rosen-Jones Photography :: Lighting by Michéll Events

Gobo Lighting by Rock the House

Photo by Leach Photography :: Lighting by Michéll Events

:: TIPS ::

1. Check with your venue to see if they offer a lighting package. Some have lighting already installed and permanently in place, but if they don't you can always rent your own lighting company to bring in. If you venue has them, see if they are included in your package or if they are additional.

2. If you're hiring an outside lighting company, make sure to coordinate with the venue so they have access to enter and setup. Lighting setup usually takes longer than other vendors setup time. Make sure your lighting company can have access to the venue and that they can bring in any equipment they need to setup and operate.

3. Before booking, have an in person meeting with the lighting company and ask to see the lighting effects in person. When you ask for pink lighting, their idea and your idea may be different. Make sure you schedule an appointment to see the lighting you're interested in before you book and make any adjustments together so you're on the same page.

4. If you're having a complicated lighting scheme and not just a few strings of lights, ask if the lighting company provides an onsite attendant to supervise the lights and make any adjustments needed. You should also inquire about if there will be any setup or tear down fees.




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