Lighting is one of the most important—and often overlooked—aspects of wedding design. It can bring areas to focus, dictate mood, and draw the eye where you want it. Once you know a little more about the basic lighting methods available, you can let your creativity roam through the venue. Here’s a closer look at some of the most popular options.

How to Light a Wedding Reception Strategically

1. Uplighting

Uplighting is a great way to create ambiance and fill out empty space. These lights are placed on the floor and cast upward. They can be colorized to bring a boring wall to life, and their cast can be thinned to create pillars or widened to cover the entire wall. Consider using them on an entryway or a wall you want to bring to focus, such as the one behind the bride and groom’s dining table.

2. Wash

Wash lighting is generally used to cover a stage, dance floor, or entryway. It casts a soft glow that “washes” the area in light and can be colored to add a creative effect. Consider a light shade that matches the wedding flowers and table displays or a blend of colors to create a vibrant entertainment area.

3. Pin Spots

Pin spots emit focused, narrow beams that highlight important areas—similar to a spotlight. You can project warm vertical beams directly on dining tables or use them from time to time to showcase what the bride and groom are doing. Shine them on a speaker giving a toast or use them during dance games at the reception. These fixtures can be easily angled and fitted with filters to diffuse or colorize them.

4. Gobos

Gobo lighting is one of the most versatile options and can truly make your wedding unique. Stencils are applied to the surface of these lights so that they project an image on the floor or wall. Many couples use them while guests are being seated or have them whirl around on the empty dance floor before activities begin.

If you’re looking for the perfect venue, turn to Makoy Center. This Hilliard, OH, wedding and event space hosts ceremonies, receptions, corporate events, and more, and their skilled team can fulfill all your audiovisual needs as well as plan and cater your big day for up to 400 guests. Call (614) 777-1211 to book a tour and find out why Makoy Center has been voted Best of Weddings on The Knot® seven years in a row. Learn more about the venue by visiting their website.