Elegant Lighting for Weddings With Lampshades and Chandeliers

Ask any photographer what makes or breaks a reception and the answer is usually the same: the light. Good lighting for weddings sets the mood from the moment the first guest walks in, flatters everyone in the room and turns an ordinary hall into somewhere people remember. The two best solutions are also the most conventional ones: soft lampshades and bright chandeliers. We will tell you how to use them right, where they can be applied, and which questions should be considered before usage.

Add some warmth of ambient lighting with lampshades and one chandelier. Ensure the right size of all the items for your room, use warm white bulbs, and order them in advance.

Why Light Sets the Tone

Lighting plays a greater role in creating the mood of the place rather than flowers or furniture would do. The presence of bright lights above the tables results in a flat look of the faces and creates an institutional atmosphere, whereas warm and multi-layered lighting does the opposite. In other words, it warms up the skin color, brings the texture to life and makes people stay a little longer eating the dessert.

Let’s start with multi-layers of the lighting design. Begin with the ambient lighting, continue with accent lighting that is focused on certain points, such as the dessert table, and end up with decor elements. If everything is done correctly, the lighting at your wedding should be a vital part of styling process, rather than just a simple addition to it.

Lampshades: Soft, Warm and Flexible

Lampshades are underrated. The selection of fabrics or beads for the lampshades and hanging them at different heights above the long table will make the large space intimate in no time. Cream and linen colors of lampshades give diffuse light sources while black and gold colors give a modern feel. The high table lamps with pleated lampshades suit the cocktail tables, welcome desks and sweetheart tables.

Additionally, these are very forgiving choices. Lampshades hide the distracting globe light and suit almost all ceiling heights. If the ceiling is low and there are marquee roofs, pendent lamps will help in bringing light near the guests. Wedding lighting decor on a tight budget is not bad choice since few items can work wonders.

Chandeliers for Drama

Nothing can characterize an event like crystal. The crystal chandelier will capture the movement and scatter spots of light on the walls and other people around. It will become an instant focal point irrespective of its placement, whether above the entryway or the ceremony itself. Another option could be the small drop style crystal lights which can be equally effective above the bride’s table or on either side of the aisle.

Size is very crucial in this scenario. The small light in a very big ballroom will not be significant enough while a big light in a small room will look overpowering. You should measure the height of the ceiling, find out the space available and the rigging specifications as not all venues allow hanging of heavy objects. The white warm bulbs match well with crystal lights but the cool ones look very sterile and cold.

There are many couples who do not want to buy things which they will use once in their life. Hence, renting the lights is the best option. The supplier will arrange the delivery, installation and removal of lights.

Combining the Two

The lighting of your wedding should be a combination of both types. Hang a chandelier at the center of the dance floor with pendants and lamps in lamp shades hanging from the ceiling. Make sure that you maintain the metallic color in your room, whether it is brass or antique silver, using it all through. You can use candles on your table center for sparkles.

Practical Tips Before You Book

  • Visit the venue at the time of day your reception will start and note how much natural light comes in.
  • Check power points, dimmer options and rigging limits well before the day.
  • Ask whether lighting for hire includes delivery, installation and pack down, or whether those cost extra.
  • Request a photo of the exact piece in a similar room, or a trial setup if possible.
  • Build lighting into your overall wedding decor budget early. It’s cheaper to plan than to fix later.
  • Book early for peak season, as popular pieces go first.

Conclusion

The lampshades add warmth and coziness, while the chandeliers provide glamour, and combined they have the power to change almost any space. Regardless of the setting, wedding lighting is definitely one of the best things you can invest in. If you’d like to see the options in person, Chandeliers To Die For offers chandeliers and a range of pendants and lamp shades, with lighting for hire handled from delivery through to pack down. They will also assist you with designing your wedding lighting décor. First step is to visit your venue, have your mood board and let the light do its magic.

FAQs

1. How many chandeliers or lampshades do I need?

This will depend on the size of the room and its height. A one-piece chandelier along with smaller ones hanging above tables will suit most places.

2. Can chandeliers be used inside a marquee?

Indeed, but provided that it is able to support the load. The supplier could help with that matter.

3. How early should I book?

The optimal time frame for your peak season events would be six to twelve months in advance. Off-peak weddings could possibly be planned earlier.