Love the location of the reception, but the inside just doesn’t make your heart sing? Afraid of how much decorating a blank box of a catering hall can be? Not exactly in love with the fluorescent lights beaming over guests, it can all be fixed affordably. Trust us, just because you’re counting the pennies doesn’t mean you can’t have a spectacular wedding and reception.
Why use lighting gels?
Lighting is everywhere in our lives: over our heads, shining on our buildings, in the street. It’s incredibly easy to change the mood or tone of a room by changing the lighting. One of the simplest ways to do this is with lighting gels. These sheets of color can be cut to size, are flexible, reusable, and affordable. At $5.99 to $6.50 per sheet (21” x 24”) each sheet can cut easily with scissors or a craft knife (my pocket knife has too much gunk on it to be recommended). Specialty fixtures can provide uplighting for your event to wash the walls with color. If those are not available to you, gels can be applied over most conventional fixtures as well.
How to use lighting gel sheets
Cut the gel sheet into squares and place over the light fixtures, leaving some space between the light bulb (aka lamp to theatre folk) and the gel, you are good to go, instant mood set. Worried that the gel won’t stay? Use JLAR Tape to keep the corners attached at any angle. Your wedding colors can now be projected onto those stark walls and create the atmosphere desired for your wedding. It’s even easier to apply gels to florescent lighting, just lay the sheets of color on the cover. Try lighter colors with fluorescents to add just a touch of warmth or coolness to the room.
The toughest decision with gels may be which one to order, there are over 15 red hued filters from one manufacturer alone. Never fear, just order a swatch book to test out all the colors you’re considering. Most of all don’t be scared. Experiment to find what suits you best.
If you want more
To add texture rent some ellipsoidal lighting fixtures and add some stock gobo patters to break up the room. Many weddings have some sort of theme and stock gobos come in a large array of patterns to keep with most themes and add interest to the party. Starting at $12.99 per pattern, stock gobos are an affordable way to add those fancy features.
If you are already renting ellipsoidals, think about adding a custom monogram gobo starting at $59. Nothing makes the same impression as a name in lights. A monogram is a great way to combine the couple’s initials and celebrate two families becoming one.
Mirror balls, not just for roller rinks
Still need something a little more fancy? Mirror balls can be a versatile addition from disco dancing to a ballroom full of waltzing couples and everything in between. A slowly spinning mirror ball casts an elegant ambiance over many dances. Not impressed with white light reflecting over all the surfaces in the room? Try throwing colored light on the mirror ball for an entirely different take on a classic.
If this is all overwhelming, take a breath. Call us here at StageSpot. We have many ideas for all tastes and budgets.
