I need lighting ideas for a wedding reception.?

Question

I am doing most of the decorating for my daughters september wedding. She want the atmosphere to be elegant and romantic.
It is an evening cocktail reception. We are using 6-7 ft. ficus trees with tiny white lights as a major percent of the decorations. I'd like stars on the ceiling, or better yet, something called a "night sky" which is a black cloth with stars that is draped across the ceiling.
Anyone have any idea where I can get something like this? Also, has anyone ever had, or been to, an event that uses a light source to project a picture or works or logo onto the dance floor?
I've seen them with the bride and grooms initials. What kind of lighting effects has anyone used that would make this reception one everyone will remember. Im very crafty, so all suggestions would be appreciated. Thanks.

Answer 1

you may want to ask your photographer too, as we are visual artists, and whatever you do with lights may show in the pictures.

Answer 2

The night sky clothes are always handmade, at least as I've seen them. I would strongly suggest not doing this. The black of the cloth absorbs the existing light and makes everything darker. Stringing up a bunch of fairy lights would be much better. However, depending on where the reception is, you can't touch the ceiling (banquet halls, restaurants). If you're having an outdoor tent, the the fairy lights would be perfect.

The logo/initials/monogram light is part of the DJs setup. It's just a regular spotlight with a filter over it. Some DJs, particularly the lower cost ones, don't have spotlight equipment. But most have sparkly disco balls or something that reflects light when people are dancing.

Answer 3

I am using a material called gossamer to drape on ceiling and cover the walls up with christmas lights hanging behind. They make a black with stars that would look pretty with lights laying on top. You can go to www.shindigz.com or any prom decorating web site to order the material and get all the help you need.

Answer 4

for the lighting effects on the dance floor, check with the dj. they usually have lighting packages to add on or that are included in the package. it looks, great. i wish i had something like that, but costs of other things got out of control, so we couldnt afford it. you may also want to check into lighting companies that specialize in lighting effects. for a elegant feel, id go with lots and lots of candles. they always add a nice romantic glow to any event. you can find them on the web. at holesale dealers for pretty cheap. use christmas twinkle lights too, not only in the trees like you said, but around the room. for the celing effect you want id maybe take a piece of black fabric, and either cut tiney holes for the lights to come through, or cut no holes and have the lights shine through the fabric. id use lights that twinkle to give it an outside stary feel if thats what your going for. good luck!!

Answer 5

Call your local lighting rental company, they can help you out with all of this