Reception Lighting That Transforms the Room
Reception lighting is one of the easiest ways to change the entire feel of your celebration, especially once the sun sets in Southern California. In this article, we’ll cover decor lighting choices that elevate the mood, flatter photos, and make your reception feel intentionally designed from start to finish.
Reception Lighting Sample by: Revelry Event Designers, Los Angeles
Start with the “Overhead Look”
Overhead decor lighting creates instant atmosphere and helps define your reception space, whether you’re celebrating at a coastal venue, an Orange County garden, or a Temecula winery. Bistro lights are a timeless favorite, and modern couples are also layering hanging elements for a fuller, more dimensional look.
- Bistro or café lights for warm, romantic glow
- Hanging lanterns or globes to add depth
- Statement chandeliers for a polished focal point
Reception Lighting Sample by: Carcano Lighting, Southern California
Add Depth with Uplighting and Pin Spots
Uplighting is the difference between a room that feels flat and one that feels cinematic, it adds richness to walls, greenery, and architectural details. Pin spotting brings attention to the parts of your design you paid for, like centerpieces, cake tables, and escort displays, so they stay visible in photos all night.
Finish with Candlelight and a Signature Moment
Candlelight softens the scene and pairs beautifully with Southern California’s natural evening ambience, from Los Angeles ballrooms to Palm Springs desert receptions. For a memorable “wow,” add one signature lighting moment like a monogram gobo, a lit canopy over the dance floor, or a glowing lounge area near the bar.
In Summary
The best reception lighting plans combine overhead glow, layered accent lighting, and one standout feature that feels personal to you. With the right decor lighting, your Southern California wedding reception will look incredible in person and in every photo.
