Think of wedding lighting as your paint brush. Unique lighting installations will transform the blank canvas of your venue into a masterpiece that expresses your vision — as well as make for an Instagrammable moment.
Lighting sets the mood and theme of a celebration. Use uplighting, downlighting, projection mapping, and more to highlight individual décor elements or the venue as a whole. Well-considered wedding lighting can also cue guests that your celebration is shifting — from cocktails to dinner, from dinner to dancing.
It’s true: unique lighting can turn even the most ordinary event space into a wonderland of shapes and colors. So think beyond the flowers with these 30 wedding lighting ideas — and discover the talented lighting designers behind the illumination. It’s time to bring your wedding vision to light.
1. Cast a Glow With a Backdrop of Candlelight
Vibrant pink uplighting by GTX Productions shines through this open shelving unit lined with golden votive candles — creating the perfect photo op for the bride and groom.
The vendors who made this event happen:
photographer: Alakija Studios | planner: Dure Events | décor: Blooming Gallery | venue: Ashton Gardens | lighting: GTX Productions | videographer: AB Motions | caterer: Glorious Feast | entertainment: DJ DonX
2. Add Intrigue With Floating Candles
The Lighter Side and WOVA Events teamed up to create an otherworldly and magical dining experience with a ceiling installation of free-floating candlelight.
The vendors who made this event happen:
photographer: Duke Images | planner: Details Details | floral: Shawna Yamamoto Event Design | venue: The Resort at Pelican Hill | lighting: The Lighter Side | performers: LA Follies | video: custom made productions | music: LIV Entertainment Group | rentals: EDGE Design and Decor | guest seating: Chameleon Chair Collection
3. Cue the Cosmos
A dazzling comet of bright white light transformed this ballroom ceiling into a cosmic wonderland thanks to Crimson Haze Event Lighting.
The vendors who made this event happen:
photographer: Jereome Tso Photography | planner: Premini Events | floral: Flora Nova Design | venue: Fairmont Olympic Hotel, Seattle | lighting: Crimson Haze Event Lighting | décor: evolution event rentals | videographer: Pacific Pictures | hair & makeup: Arianna Scott | entertainment: 3D Sounds
4. Give the Dance Floor Some Love With Monogrammed Lighting
Images By Lighting knew how to bring guests to the dance floor with this custom monogram gobo surrounded by an elegant pink heart.
The vendors who made this event happen:
photographer: John Solano Photography, Nadine Froger Photography, & Simone-photography | planner: International Event Company | floral: Marks Garden | venue: Four Seasons Los Angeles at Beverly Hills & The Beverly Hills Hotel | décor: Revelry Event Designers & Buds & Blooms LA | entertainment: West Coast Music & Vali Entertainment | sound: Design Sound | lighting: Images By Lighting | napkins: Resource One | cake: Heslington Cakes | videographer: Vidicam Productions | confetti: Artistry in Motion | event painter: Agnes Russo | ceremony chairs: Chameleon Chair Collection | ceremony chair covers & linen: Wildflower Linen | flatware & glassware: Classic Event & Tent Rentals | paper goods: Ceci New York | ice bars & sculptures: Ice Bulb | fruit carver: De Royale
5. Celebrate With Cold Fireworks
Lucky Devils Band (along with a striking cold fireworks display) set the scene for a memorable and romantic first dance.
The vendors who made this event happen:
photographer: Peter Nguyen Studio | planner: Thomas Bui Lifestyle | floral: Wish Social Events | venues: San Francisco City Hall & Fairmont San Francisco | linen: La Tavola Fine Linen | videographer: Peter Nguyen Studio | rentals: Theoni Collection, Hensley Event Resources & NFP Events | entertainment: Lucky Devils Band | beauty concierge: Elwynn and Cass | paper designer: Whimsíque: Designer Invitations & Stationery
6. Stage a Dazzling Backdrop for the Band
Create a multi-sensory experience for guests on the dance floor with a dazzling lighting installation — like this one by Suzanne B. Lowell Lighting Design.
The vendors who made this event happen:
photographer: Genevieve de Manio Photography | planner: Nicole Simeral & Company | venue: InterContinental Boston | lighting: Suzanne B. Lowell Lighting Design
7. Create an Ethereal Mood With Illuminated Drapery
By Yena Designs used various lighting techniques to add dimension to this sheer cascade of violet drapery — creating an ethereal dreamscape in the process.
The vendors who made this event happen:
photographer: Brian Hatton Photography | planner: Ang Weddings and Events | design, décor, & floral: By Yena Designs | venue: Gotham Hall
8. Line the Walls With Candlelight
Three rows of endless candlelight easily compete with a stunning Malibu sunset — ensuring there was no such thing as “a bad seat in the house” at this intimate wedding planned by Colin Cowie Lifestyle.
The vendors who made this event happen:
photos courtesy of, planning & design: Colin Cowie Lifestyle | venue: private residence | caterer: Wolfgang Puck Catering – Los Angeles
9. Use Transparent Tenting to Reflect Twinkling Lights
This stunning fairy light installation by Fusion Productions becomes even more beautiful with transparent tenting creating a second cloud of golden shimmer.
The vendors who made this event happen:
photographer: Shannen Natasha Weddings | venue: Bryant Park Grill | lighting: Fusion Productions | cake: Lucky Bird Bakes
10. Bring the Forest Indoors With Light and Shadow
Let soaring walls be a blank canvas for stunning creative lighting designs — like this majestic forest scene from Fantasy Sound Event Services.
The vendors who made this event happen:
photographer: Lauren Feddersen Photography | floral: Nicole Ha Floral Design | venue: Casa Real at Ruby Hill Winery | lighting & décor: Fantasy Sound Event Services | rentals: Pleasanton Rentals, Inc.
11. Dim the Lights…But up the Lavender
Vibrant purple downlighting by Frost DC transformed this venue space post-ceremony — whisking guests off to a whole new world (without having to leave the building).
The vendors who made this event happen:
photographer: Michelle Lindsay | planning & design: Bella Notte | floral: Philippa Tarrant Floral Design | venue: International Spy Museum | lighting: Frost DC | décor: BD3 Design | videographer: Monachetti | caterer: Design Cuisine | cake & dessert: Buttercream Bakeshop | entertainment: Lucy Black Entertainment | photo booth: Booth-o-Rama
12. Mix and Match With Eclectic Lighting
Funky and eclectic chandeliers from Kehoe Designs meet an iridescent-lit dance floor by BlackOak Technical Productions for a whimsical wedding reception that begs to be photographed.
The vendors who made this event happen:
photographer: Chris Joriann Photography | design, décor & floral: Kehoe Designs | venue: private club | technical productions: BlackOak Technical Productions
13. Create a Romantic Dining Experience With Reflected Candlelight
Xquisite Events brings Jay Gatsby’s West Egg to Palm Beach with mirrored tablescapes laden with candlelight — as well as a flash of peacock feathers.
The vendors who made this event happen:
photographer: Adam Opris Photography | planner: Jackie Ohh Events | floral & décor: Xquisite Events | venue: private club
14. Take Advantage of Exposed Brick
VOX Productions used the exposed brick (and beams) of this industrial venue to ultimate effect with vibrant pink uplighting, a monogram gobo, and delicate string lighting — with the help of a little marquee signage, of course.
The vendors who made this event happen:
photos courtesy of & venue: LA River Studios | production: VOX Productions
15. Give Guests a Reason to Look Up
Iridescent waves of light by Yanni Design Studio wash over this ballroom ceiling — the perfect complement to a reflective gold dance floor.
The vendors who made this event happen:
photographer: Anna Guziak Photography | design & décor: Yanni Design Studio | venue: The Palmer House Hilton
16. Create a Firefly Glow With Miniature Bulbs
A backdrop of miniature string bulbs by The Lux Productions gives the illusion of glittering fireflies at this farmhouse-chic wedding celebration.
The vendors who made this event happen:
photographer: Taylor McCutchan Photography | event production & design: ROQUE Events | floral: Flower Girl Em | venue, culinary & beverage: The Estate Yountville | lighting & production: The Lux Productions | signage: Blushtype | linen: La Tavola Fine Linen | rentals: Encore Events Rentals & Theoni Collection | lounge: Found Rentals
17. Light up the Night With Colorful Uplighting
Think beyond the ballroom with outdoor uplighting that casts a glow on palm trees and guests alike — like at this lush tropical wedding planned by Chic Bahamas Weddings and Events.
The vendors who made this event happen:
photographer: Chaz Cruz Photographers | planner & floral: Chic Bahamas Weddings and Events | venue: The Island House | linen: Contempo Linens
18. Let Lanterns Be Your Guide
Kate Whelan Events lent an air of garden enchantment to this autumnal wedding ceremony and reception with romantic, gleaming lantern décor.
The vendors who made this event happen:
photographer: Milou & Olin Photography | planner: Kate Whelan Events | floral: Flourish Designs | venue & caterer: The Meritage Resort and Spa | entertainment: DeBorba Events | photo booth: Giggle and Riot Funbooths | videographer: Thomas Hughes Films | linen: La Tavola Linens | dance floor: Boogie Lights | rentals: Bright Event Rentals | hair & makeup: Christi Reynolds Professional Makeup Artistry
19. Create an Intimate Space With the Help of Candlelight
This modern and romantic sweetheart table (curated by KeAira Chantell Events) becomes an intimate haven with clusters of candlelight gathered at the foot of the tablescape.
The vendors who made this event happen:
photographer: Travis Daniels Photography | planner: KeAira Chantell Events | floral: The Simon Design | venue: The Venue Fort Lauderdale | custom décor: Elf Prop Shop | cake: Déjà vu Sweets | cinematography: Bricks Group Media | stationery: Papered Wonders | custom acrylic items: Ten23 Designs
20. Let a Lighting Fixture be Your Focal Point
A suspended chandelier becomes a gorgeous and unique focal point with the addition of lavish pampas grass by florist Poppy Stone Designs.
The vendors who made this event happen:
photographer: Jen Philips Photography | planner: Sugar Rush Events | floral: Poppy Stone Designs | venue: Solage, Auberge Resorts Collection | lighting: 3 Stage Lighting, Inc. | rentals: Theoni Collection & La Tavola Fine Linen | baker: Fleur de Lisa | hair & makeup: The Makeup Dolls | entertainment: Entire Productions & Verducci Event Productions | photo booth: The Booth Bus
21. Bring on Extra Shimmer With Crystal Tassels and Chandeliers
This exquisite Indian wedding, planned by KP Style Events, features one-of-a-kind ceiling décor with fringe and crystal tassels illuminated by globed chandeliers.
The vendors who made this event happen:
photographer: Amrit Photography | planner: KP Style Events | décor: Universal Décor | venue: Metropolitan Banquet Hall | venue & cake: Hyatt Regency Lake Washington | lighting & dj: DJ Hans | lighting: Miked Up Productions | cinematography: Studio 101 | transportation: Puget Sound Coach Lines & Luxury Limo Seattle | entertainment: Christie Becker Violin, G Sidhu & Boss Entertainment | hair & makeup: Studio Elan | emcee, dhol: Rock the Dhol | security: Security Services NW | signage: Noor Design
22. Create a Canopy of String Lights
A canopy of string lights by RFC Productions transforms this indoor event venue into an enchanted and romantic garden space.
The vendors who made this event happen:
photographer: Fred Marcus Studio | planner: LLG Events | floral: Tantawan Bloom | venue: 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge | lighting: RFC Productions | rentals: Luxe Event Rentals & Broadway Party Rentals
23. Double the Flower Power With Creative Lighting
These stunning floral centerpieces by Parrish Designs of London cast a shadowy backdrop that’s just as beautiful thanks to Event Factor, a lighting design company.
The vendors who made this event happen:
photographer: Kane & Social | planner: Melissa Davis Designs | design, décor & floral: Parrish Designs of London | venue: Miami Beach Edition | lighting: Event Factor | rentals: Elements & Accents | linen: BBJ Linen & Nuage Designs | cake: Cake Designs by Edda
24. Exchange Vows Against a Backdrop of Twinkling Fairy Lights
Bring the starlit sky to any ballroom with deep blue drapery and 360 degrees of twinkling fairy lights — like at this enchanting ceremony designed by The Lighter Side.
The vendors who made this event happen:
photographer: Katie Beverley | planner: Details Details | floral: Celio’s Design | venue: The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel | lighting: The Lighter Side | cinematography: Hoo Films | rentals: Revelry Event Designers, River & Bridge & NFP Events | tabletop: The Chiavari Guys | stationery: Luxe Marie Stationery | entertainment: Elis Band
25. Use Lights at Different Heights for Dramatic Effect
Suzanne B. Lowell Lighting Design utilized various light styles at two different heights to bring a rich dimension of sparkle and light to this pole tent wedding.
The vendors who made this event happen:
photographer: Christina Zen Photography | planner & design: Simeral & Co. | florist: Marc Hall Design | venue: Misquamicut Club | lighting design: Suzanne B. Lowell Lighting Design
26. Bring the Starlight Down to Earth
San José del Cabo, Baja California Sur
Between a spiral of star-shaped lanterns and projected starlight gobos by Oxten Productions, this beach wedding was as heavenly as can be.
The vendors who made this event happen:
photography: Juan Carlos Tapia | planner: Sacks Productions | floral: Jeff Leatham | venue & cake: Las Ventanas Al Paraíso | lighting: Oxten Productions | designer: Rrivre Works | fireworks: Pirotecnia Herrera | videography: Land’s End Films
27. Spell it Out in Neon
Spell out your love in hip neon signage — and turn each trip to the bar into an Instagram-worthy moment (just like at this wedding planned by The Lynden Lane Company).
The vendors who made this event happen:
photographer: Katherine Ann Rose Photography | planner: The Lynden Lane Company | floral: Paul Fenner Floral Design | venue: Parker Palm Springs | lighting & drapery: Amber Event Production | signage: The Bleu Dahlia | cinematography: Our Story Creative | day-of art: Katie O’Brien | rentals: Hire Elegance, Signature Party Rentals & Above the Top Party Rentals | linen:
La Tavola Fine Linen | makeup: Design Visage | hair: Jason Hair
28. Wow With a Laser Light Display
Turn your dance floor into the party of the century with a colorful laser light show like this one from Liquid Sky.
The vendors who made this event happen:
photographer: Russell Heeter Photography | planning & production: YSD Events | floral & décor: Ovando Design and Production | venue: Biltmore Hotel Miami Coral Gables | special fx: Liquid Sky | lighting design: Event Factor | videographer & cinematographer: Harvest Film Co. | sound production & entertainment: Élan Artists | printed collateral: The Windmill Paper Boutique | photo booth: The South Beach Photo Booth Co.
29. Dine Beneath the Stars — Even on a Cloudy Night
360 AV Design created a starlit al fresco dining experience with a canopy of string lights glimmering against the evening sky.
The vendors who made this event happen:
30. Make it Modern With Globed Lighting
The Collective Seattle teamed up with Le Luci Event Lighting LLC to bring a modern edge to this garden wedding with globed chandeliers suspended from the treetops.
The vendors who made this event happen:
How Important is Lighting at a Wedding?
Wedding lighting offers endless design possibilities and wow-worthy moments. Use a shift in lighting to cue a transition or use lighting to highlight a specific décor element (see this wedding bar area).
Similarly, lighting can transform the color of your venue space or cue the dance party. Any event space, be it indoors or outdoors, will benefit from creative lighting installations.
Head to our Lighting Idea Gallery to find even more ways lighting can elevate your wedding. It’s time to explore the unique world of illumination.
Find Lighting Décor and A/V Technology Companies
It’s true: You’ve seen some of our favorite lighting ideas from real weddings on PartySlate. Now it’s time to find a talented wedding vendor to bring your favorite look to life.
Use PartySlate’s curated directory to find the best wedding event professionals near you. Make sure to utilize the filters to narrow down your search by vendor category and location. You can also click on the following:
Find More Lighting Inspiration and Ideas
PartySlate is here to connect you with the latest ideas and inspiration. Head to the wedding idea gallery to discover more unique lighting displays. Trust us, your friends will thank you.
While you’re there, make sure to check out other gorgeous wedding ideas. From arches and centerpieces to dance floors and cakes, we know all the ways to get the party started.
featured lighting design
SUZANNE B. LOWELL LIGHTING DESIGN
Suzanne and her team create custom lighting and color solutions that can make an event. We appreciate their willingness to create new solutions to completely transform spaces and set moods. photographer: Gruber Photographers