A Look at Wedding Lighting: What’s Coming Up & What’s Heading Out
Decorative lighting is a wedding staple, adding to the overall design and creating atmosphere. But, as with other elements, lighting is subject to the ever-changing trends in the industry. Just as we saw the rise and fall of mason jars with tea lights in them, it’s important to know what’s on the horizon to serve couples best.
Here are a few wedding lighting trends coming and going in the industry.
Credit: Leo Pham Photography
In: Hanging Lights
This year, event design is all about creating dynamic spaces — and there’s nothing quite like hanging lights to fit the bill. Rather than string up market lights across the ceiling, which draws the eyes upward, we’re seeing strands of lights dripping from above for an engaging and interactive experience. Perfect for ceremony altars and photo backdrops, they add an extra special twinkle at eye level.
Out: Neon Lights
It was here for a few seasons, but neon lights are heading out the door. This follows the shift in the industry toward softer color palettes and romantic themes, which don’t typically pair with loud, vibrant neon hues. Neon lighting also tends to be cost-restrictive, making it a better fit for large-scale galas and conferences where it remains a popular choice.
Credit: Corinna Rose Photography
In: Grand Chandeliers
It’s hard to argue with a stunning chandelier! As couples seek innovative designs, we’re seeing grand and gorgeous chandeliers far beyond the typical ballroom style. From industrial-chic iron to boho wood to glittery glam crystals, chandeliers can dress up any venue — including tented spaces!
Out: Marquee Letters
While couples will always love highlighting their newly shared initials, we’re seeing marquee letters fading out as personalized details. As they do, couples are leaning into technology, embracing custom gobo washes and video mapping to shine a light on their monogram.
Credit: Craig Adderley
In: Candelabras
Votives and tea lights will always have their place, but today’s couples are bringing back the gilded era by dressing up their tables with glowing candelabras. Bronze, gold, silver — they come in every style! Plus, taper candles come in all colors, so you can get creative to highlight a wedding’s theme.
A wedding isn’t complete without a thoughtful lighting design. So whether your couples are after a candle-filled romantic ambiance or a luxury black-tie experience, keep these trends in mind as you plan their grand celebrations!
Kevin Dennis is the editor of WeddingIQ and the owner of Fantasy Sound Event Services, a full-service event company based in Livermore, California. Dennis is the current international president for WIPA.
