Nothing sets an ambiance for an event like great lighting. Whether your event is indoors or outdoors, there are many lighting options to bring your party, wedding, or other social gatherings to the next level. If you aren’t sure where to start, we’ve gathered some great ideas and tips to illuminate any space for the mood you want. Keep reading for a few great lighting ideas for your next event. 

Indoor vs. Outdoor Event Lighting

Any event, indoor or outdoor, deserves great lighting. Most lighting options can be used indoors, but you’ll need to make sure that the lights and power sources are appropriate for outside use if you have an outdoor event. 

If you must use an extension cord to bring power outside, make sure it is specifically marked for outside use. It should have a cover that will protect the outlets and cords from rain. Likewise, any outdoor outlets should have a water-proof cover. 

Lighting Ideas

Different lighting fixtures, styles, and bulbs can help you achieve the atmosphere for your event, whether it’s a romantic wedding, a fun high school reunion, or an intimate dinner. Here are a few great ideas. 

String Lights

String lights are an incredibly versatile and easy lighting option for virtually any type of event. Make a faux ceiling with suspended string lights to mimic a night sky to create a romantic mood for a wedding or anniversary party. You can also wrap string lights around trees, staircases, or columns and keep the main lights low. Additionally, string lights can be used to create barriers or borders, so guests know where to park, sit, or dance. 

Lanterns

Lanterns and hurricane lamps are great choices for setting an event ambiance. They work especially well outdoors or for events with a rustic or shabby-chic theme. Small lanterns can be set up at individual tables, while larger lamps and lanterns can be placed in corners of the room or around a live-music stage. 

Lanterns and hurricane lamps can be lit with large candles, but electric-bulb options are less messy and last much longer before they need to be replaced. 

Pendants

Pendant lighting is a simple way to bring elegance to any event, especially in a large, open space. It is ideal for bringing luxury and intimacy to a high-ceilinged room and works very well for outdoor spaces with a covered area. Hanging chandeliers or multi-strand vintage pendants are two different styles to consider, depending on the atmosphere you want to create. 

Color-Changing LED Lights

Regardless of the style of fixture you choose, color-changing LED light bulbs are a great choice for any event. They are versatile, so they can be reused again and again for different events; just change the colors and brightness to suit any occasion. 

 

The ideas above should give you a pretty good place to start when picking out lighting for your next event. If you’d like some professional assistance, get in touch with Baystate Tent & Party to see an extensive selection of lighting options for all your event lighting needs!