By Greg Young
Want to wow your wedding guests? Focus on light design.

If you watch wedding shows syndicated on national television (My Fair Wedding, Four Weddings, etc.) you will quickly notice that atmosphere lighting is a key design element used by wedding planners. Light design, when done correctly, can transform any space while providing the wow factor that will leave your guests in amazement. When working with a professional company, a light technician will guide you through the process of selecting the appropriate light fixtures to maximize your venues architectural features. In an effort to build your lighting terminology, here are a few of the most commonly selected lighting services to consider for your reception:

Uplighting is the most cost effective way to transform your reception space. For indoor receptions, uplighting fixtures are commonly placed around the perimeter of the room, allowing the beam of light to project up the wall. For a tented reception, uplights are commonly utilized to project beams of light along the canopy. Most lighting companies utilize LED fixtures so the power consumption is low and the color options are endless. The ambient light provided by uplights allows the harsh overhead lighting to be dimmed creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for your guests to enjoy.

Pinspot lights offer a focused beam of light commonly used to highlight your unique wedding details. After all, you’ve spent hundreds (if not thousands) of dollars selecting your floral arrangements, centerpieces, wedding cake, and other wedding details, so don’t let them go unnoticed.

Monogram lights are personally designed for you and your fiancé. Traditionally, they are used to display your names, initials, or wedding date, and are an excellent way to pull together the various design elements you’ve selected for your wedding. Your custom monogram is commonly projected on the dance floor or directed towards an architecturally appropriate space within the venue.

Intelligent lights have mechanical abilities beyond those of traditional, stationary lights. These are light fixtures that have the ability to project a custom designed light show for your wedding reception. Common applications include dance floor scenes, introductions scene, and spotlighting services. Intelligent light design requires programming time in the selected venue and is produced entirely on your vision for lighting.

Real Maine Weddings Light Demonstration from Northeast DJs on Vimeo.

While these are only a handful of the many services offered by a professional light design company, it should help you understand the powerful effects lighting can have on the overall atmosphere of your celebration.  Consider setting up an appointment with a local lighting technician to discuss your reception.

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Greg Young is the co-owner of Northeast DJs. He's been working as a professional DJ since he was 14-years-old.
Photos by fidelio photography