Things We’d Tell You About Event Lighting (If We Weren’t Afraid to Hurt Your Feelings)

We get it—event lighting can feel like an afterthought. Until it’s not.

Lighting is one of the most powerful design elements at any wedding or event, but it’s often misunderstood or overlooked. From high ceilings and outdoor spaces to intricate floral arrangements and architectural features, lighting plays a critical role in creating the overall mood and tying your entire wedding theme together. It impacts everything—from how your guests feel to how your photographer captures the scene. So here’s the truth, delivered with love: if we weren’t so nice, this is what we’d say.

1. Uplighting alone isn’t a “lighting design.”

Uplighting is a great starting point, but it’s not the full picture. It’s like decorating only one wall of a room and calling it done. A professional lighting designer will tell you that true lighting design is layered and intentional—it guides the energy of the space, complements decor, and transforms the vibe from day to night. It can highlight unique architectural features, enhance vibrant colors, and add a touch of elegance to your entire space. The type of lighting you choose—from chandeliers and wall sconces to floor fixtures—can completely shift the feel of your wedding reception.

2. Pinterest didn’t see your venue at night.

We love inspiration photos as much as anyone, but they don’t account for your unique space, layout, or ambient light after dark. What looks magical in a styled shoot or outdoor wedding might not translate inside a ballroom. High ceilings, pendant lights, and architectural details all interact with lighting differently. A lighting plan should be tailored to your venue’s specific scenes, logistics, and design. And remember: what looks good in daylight may not translate under tea lights or votive candles.

3. Your photographer can’t Photoshop bad lighting.

Even the best photographers need good lighting to do their job well. Harsh shadows, dim corners, and color casts from bad LEDs can all affect the quality of your photos. Good lighting helps maintain proper shutter speed, define subjects with rim light, and keep everyone looking their best. Without the right lighting, even the most beautiful wedding ceremony setup or floral installation can fall flat in photos.

4. Stunning florals deserve to be seen after sunset, too.

You’ve invested in incredible floral design—don’t let it disappear after dusk. From tea lights and votive candles to focused pin spotting, lighting ensures your floral arrangements stay visible, vibrant, and part of the atmosphere all night long. This isn’t just a decor detail—it’s part of your wedding story and a highlight of your wedding planning process.

5. String lights are lovely, but they’re just the start.

Fairy lights and twinkle lights create a soft, whimsical vibe—and we love that. But they’re not a one-size-fits-all solution. Especially in outdoor spaces, lighting needs to be layered with practical and aesthetic elements like gobo lighting, pendant lights, and ambient glow to achieve the full effect. Whether you’re planning an intimate garden wedding or a dramatic ballroom reception, lighting should complement your vision and enhance your theme. Market lights and lanterns can also help define pathways and open-air layouts while adding charm and character.

6. If your design looks amazing at 4pm but not at 9pm, it’s not finished.

Lighting is the difference between a space that feels inviting all evening long versus one that fades as the sun sets. From the wedding ceremony to the reception, lighting continuity matters. You need a design that supports the timeline, adapts with changing light levels, and carries your vision from first dance to last call seamlessly. Don’t forget—your lighting is part of your wedding just as much as your flowers, your dress, and your DJ. The best designs showcase thoughtful lighting throughout every detail, including centerpieces, architectural focal points, and transitions from ceremony space to celebration.

7. The best lighting goes unnoticed—but makes everything unforgettable.

When lighting is done well, you don’t always notice it—you just feel it. That’s the magic. It elevates the energy, flatters your design, and leaves a lasting impression without stealing the spotlight. It sets the tone for your special day and can enhance every part of your wedding, from romantic moments to vibrant dance floor scenes. And while lighting costs can vary, the impact it makes is always worth the investment.

Let’s Talk Lighting

Your event deserves to shine—from first look to last dance. Let’s create a lighting design that brings your vision to life, respects your budget, and makes your whole vendor team look even better. We’re happy to walk you through wedding lighting costs, options for indoor and outdoor weddings, and how to incorporate lighting into your overall wedding planning process. Whether you’re working with a wedding planner or building your vendor team from scratch, we’re here to help you bring every moment to light.

Reach out to Phos Events to start the conversation.