Without a doubt, the most overlooked element in wedding design is reception lighting. Nothing transforms an atmosphere quite like it. Unfortunately, reception lighting ideas seem to be one of the last things couples think about when they get bogged down with making choices about centerpieces, linens, and tableware. So before you finish your wedding decor planning, keep in mind you can elevate your vision in a flip of a switch with chandeliers, spotlights, projectors, gels and more. Whether you’re hiring a seasoned wedding designer or renting your reception lighting, here are a few things to keep in mind and 20 shiny ideas to inspire you.  

Chandeliers add sophistication and elegance to wedding design. They are classic, beautiful, and sparkle like diamonds over the dining hall and dance floor. If the style you’re going for is classic and refined, there is no better way to illuminate it than with the right chandeliers. Obviously you don’t want to hang them yourself, so find a venue that already has them installed or hire a rental company to hang them for you.

Lanterns and lamps allow you to bring tons of personality into your reception lighting design by using shapes and colors. You’ll find choices to complement almost any theme and they come in a wide range of wattages and sizes so you can choose how brightly they shine. Woven styles look wonderful at laid back summer weddings while glass lanterns with candles add a magical look around tables and cakes. Try using lamps directly on your tables for a fine-dining restaurant feel.

Strings lights are economical and fairly simple to hang, so it’s no wonder they are very popular. Adding romance to any atmosphere, they twinkle like stars under tents and over dinner tables. Choose from large incandescent bulbs, small electric lights and solar powered LEDs which you can use no matter where you go. Save a couple of strings to take on the road and surround yourself with light on your honeymoon!

Lighted signs add another dimension to your wedding decor and are often used on dance floors and in welcome areas. Use your initials, a welcome greeting or a message of love that can act as beautiful backdrops for your wedding photos.

Looking to light up your wedding and reception with candlelight? Check out our post, 35 Candlelight Ideas for Romantic Weddings and don’t miss our Details and Decor Gallery full of thousands of brilliant ideas for your wedding.