Uplighting is one of the newest trends and buzzwords in the wedding and event industry. But you might be wondering… What is it? Why have it? How many do I need? All really good questions. Let’s try to answer them!
What is it? Put simply, these are the lights that are shone up a wall.
Why have it? Uplighting can turn an ordinary room into something extraordinary. By adding this lighting option to a room, they can provide that extra “wow” factor you are looking for. In a venue with less than ideal lighting? Uplighting can certainly brighten things up (nice pun, right?).
How much does it cost? Ah, but it’s so expensive! Like a lot 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 on average cost $3.00 each, times 175-person wedding equals $525. Uplighting per fixture (in layman’s terms it simply means per light) at $40 each, times 12 equals $480.
How many do you need? Here’s a breakdown of what we think makes sense (of course, you can always add more or less depending on budget):
· 8 Uplights: Good for a smaller room (150 people or less) or minimal coverage in medium size room (150-250 people). The most common setup is four lights along the front edge and four along the back edge of the space.
· 12 Uplights: Full coverage for a smaller room or good coverage for a medium size room. The most common application would be four lights along each long edge and two on each side.
· 16 Uplights: Full coverage for small or medium size rooms. Setup is generally four lights along each wall.
· 20+ Uplights: Medium to full coverage for a large room (250+ people). Could also use for applying lights to different areas like a foyer or outside.
What type of uplighting should I use?
You have two options: LED or Incandescent. It’s basically old school versus new school. Make sure you ask your lighting provider which type they are using as it definitely makes a difference.
Old school (incandescent) uplighting can get really hot when used for a long period of time, use a lot more power, offer less color options, can be more difficult to change colors on the fly and are less bright. However, this light type is also more cost effective.
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, they offer many more color choices which can be changed almost immediately and are brighter. You can even program these lights to change to the beat of the music during dancing.
When your guests see the room with beautiful colors washing the wall, it definitely sets the mood for a special evening full of energy. Whether you’re planning an elegant affair or something more laid back, uplighting is definitely something to consider to set your wedding apart.
