Uplighting-one of the new trends and buzzwords in the Wedding and event industry over the past few years. What is it? Why have it? How many do I need? What are some tips and tricks? All really good questions. Let’s try to answer them!
Uplighting can turn an ordinary room into something extraordinary. Why have it? It can provide that extra “wow” factor and if you’re in a room with less than ideal lighting options, it can certainly brighten things up (nice pun right?)
Ah, but it’s so expensive, right?! Like alot of decisions, it depends on what you value. Let’s pick on chair covers and linens, strictly as a simplistic example (we still love you chair-cover-and-linen-rental-vendors). Chair covers and linens at average cost of $3.00 per, x 175 person wedding = $525.00. Uplighting per fixture (in layman’s terms fixture simply means light) at $30.00 per x 12 equals = $360.00. How did we come up with 12? Here’s a breakdown of what we think makes sense. Remember, everything will depend on your budget. You can certainly add more or less, but here are the minimums that would give you optimal coverage per room.
8 Uplights : Good for smaller rooms, minimal coverage for medium size rooms. The most common setup is 4 lights along the front edge and 4 along the back edge.
12 Uplights : Full coverage for smaller rooms (150 people or so). Good coverage for medium size rooms (150-250 people). The most common application would be 4 lights along each long edge and then 2 on each side.
16 Uplights : Full coverage for small or medium size rooms. 4 lights along each wall is the most common setup.
20+ Uplights : Large rooms (250+ people). Could also use for applying lights to different areas like a foyer or outside.
Here are some more tips and questions to ask your favorite supplier.
LED or Incandescent– It’s basically old school vs. new school. Make sure you ask what type a vendor is using. It definitely makes a difference.
Old school (incandescent) uplighting has many drawbacks. These lights can get really hot when used for a long period of time. If guests or kids are near these, there’s a chance they can come in contact with them. They also suck alot of power, and if you use a bunch of them, they could cause electrical problems. It’s also more difficult to change colors on the fly and the color choices are limited compared to newer LEDs. They’re also not as bright as most LEDs are. The only real positive of old school lighting is that they’re much cheaper for a vendor to buy.
New school (LED) uplighting doesn’t have as many drawbacks with the exception of a higher price per fixture. Their power draw is much less, they’re cool to the touch, nearly limitless color choices, and the colors can be changed in seconds. You can even program these lights to change to the beat of the music during dancing. LEDs are also much brighter on average than old school fixtures.
Setting The Mood– When your guests see the room with beautiful colors on the wall based off of your wedding colors (just an idea) it definitely sets the expectation that they’re in for a special evening. It’s hard to explain, but I think everyone has felt it when they have walked into a room and it looks amazing-it simply raises your expectation, which creates energy.
Whether you’re planning an elegant gala or just need some color to spice up your next event, uplighting is a great enhancement to consider. It adds a touch of class and can set your event apart. We’re happy to answer any additional questions you may have about this!