In all honesty, there’s something about an outdoor wedding that just feels extra special. Maybe it’s the fresh air, the open sky, or the fact that you’re not squished into a function room with questionable carpet. But as beautiful as outdoor weddings are during the day, it’s when the sun goes down that the real magic can happen, if you’ve nailed your lighting.
But really, that great outdoor wedding lighting isn’t just about being able to see your dinner or making sure Nan doesn’t fall into a flowerbed. It’s what transforms your space from “lovely” to “absolutely flipping breathtaking.” It’s what you want to look back on, it’s what you want to see in your wedding photo album for years to come, it’s, well, it’s everything!
So, let’s talk about how to do it right.
Go Ahead and Start with the Boring Bits
Yes, yes, we know you’re probably already dreaming about fairy lights and flickering candles, but before you dive into all that dreamy stuff, sort out the practical bits. Sure, they’re boring, but trust us, it’s pretty important. So, you got the walkways, exits, and loo signs, and yeah, they all need proper lighting first. Basically, you want guests to remember your day for the romance, not because they got lost trying to find the bar.
So, once the essentials are covered, wedding lighting becomes the fun part, and the part that sets the whole tone for the evening. Again, there’s a lot of work when it comes to making that dreamy wedding come to life.
Just Know the Difference Between these Lights
Well, there’s two major ones that really need to get some attention, there’s the fairy lights, and there’s the festoon lights too. But what’s the difference? Is there actually a difference? Yeah, there is. Alright, so fairy lights are tiny, twinkly, and practically scream “Pinterest-worthy wedding.” They’re great for draping through trees, across canopies, or wrapped around beams. Basically, if you want that enchanted woodland vibe, fairy lights are your best mate.
Festoon lights, though? Well, they bring a bit more energy. Basically, they’re chunkier bulbs, a bit of a retro edge, and perfect for stringing across open spaces like courtyards or above the dance floor. They say, “This is a party,” but in a very stylish way. You can even mix and match both of these, honestly, there’s no harm, its your wedding, do what you want.
You Need those Lovely Little Touches
It’s the little things that make a difference, right? Well, as you probably know, candles are the ultimate romance booster. Pop them in glass jars, nestle them into table centrepieces, or place them along pathways for that soft, flickery glow. Just make sure you check with your venue about open flames, or go for LED versions that still give off all the glow with none of the stress (which are highly recommended).
But you can’t forget about lanterns either, since you can hang them from trees, line them up along the aisle, or dot them around chill-out zones to add a cosy, lived-in feel to your outdoor space. Besides, they look magical in pictures.
Don’t Ignore the Techy Bits (Seriously)
It’s easy to get swept up in the sparkle, but here’s your gentle reality check: lighting needs power. Sounds obvious, but it’s shocking (no pun intended) how many people forget this. Well, you absolutely need to find out what your venue can support. Will you need a generator? Extension cables? Someone who actually knows how not to blow a fuse?
Let Your Lighting Tell a Story
Lighting isn’t just decoration (it is, sure), but it’s atmosphere too. So, when it’s all done right, your wedding lighting won’t just make your venue look good, it’ll make people feel something. And isn’t that what weddings are all about? Seriously, just think about it, the stars are above, sparkle all around, and a night no one’s going to forget anytime soon. It’s pure magic for a magical day, right?
