Let there be Light – How lighting can enhance your events
Lighting as decorations. What typically comes to mind when thinking of decorations for events? Centrepieces, floral arrangements, table linens and props tend to top the list. Lighting often is forgotten and in some cases left up to the entertainment or band to provide.
Not considering lighting would similarly suck the life out of your event.
Lighting carries a strong and immediate presence—defining personality, style, vibe, time, season, theme, emotion and energy from the moment guests enter a space.
Making an entrance, first impressions are everything, which is why entrances and pathways need careful consideration when it comes to lighting.
Bold washes of light onto tree canopies, pattern washes inside pools, and other landscape up lighting can indirectly create an amazing backdrop for events.
A trick of light making things “disappear,” is, ironically, one of the most desired effects achieved by lighting. “Proper lighting can also darken a space—hide the unattractive features of a venue, while highlighting the core elements of an event. Choosing the right amount of brightness and, if possible, matching the color temperature to the environment can produce a pleasant look that doesn’t detract from the overall appearance of the space.”
Good lighting, like good manners, covers a host of ills. Proper lighting can accomplish so many things in addition to illuminating an event. It can set the mood, style and tempo of an event. It can subtly inform guests what to expect, can draw their eyes to what you want them to see, and can even influence their opinions on what they are seeing depending on the techniques used.
Even large rooms that are seemingly difficult to decorate can take on new life with lighting. Look at a room as a blank slate for images and colors to be painted on the walls.
When you are planning your next event, allocate some extra budget for lighting and you will see what an amazing difference great lighting can make to enhance your event and excite your clients.
