Lighting options for an evening reception

[About2beMrsMartin]

I don't know why i just realized this, but the sun will be setting around 5pm when i get married in December. Of course I chose to get married in Mexico among many reasons, because of the beautiful atmosphere. So unless it is a monsoon, I want our reception outdoors.

 

The reception is scheduled to start 3:30pm and go into the evening....does anyone have any suggestions as to lighting the area? I plan on using candles as my centerpieces, but I was thinking about how to illuminate the entire area designated as the reception (dance floor, food, etc) From what the WC told me it's a big concrete courtyard- basically a blank canvas and i am at a loss of ideas?

[LisaG]

You could do paper lanterns.

 

Paper Lanterns, Party Supplies and Chinese Paper Lanterns - PaperLanternStore.com

[Rachelle E.]

yeah, paper lanterns are always pretty. Little christmas/string lights work too. Although if it's a large area, you may want to see about a small "floodlight" or two. A lot of time you can get portable ones that you could set up at the edge or corners of the area to give a little overall light...then use the candles, lanterns etc to accent and add atmosphere.

[cheese_diva]

We're doing lanterns, but they aren't necessary. They have enough lighting provided. I'm sure your location has that covered, no?

[gkashmira]

I think that it makes sense to ask your hotel what tyhey normally do for lighting in these spaces - I'm sure they have a plan.

[About2beMrsMartin]

Thank you all for your suggestions.

 

I asked the resort and the WC said "standard" lighting- she keeps pushing the cocktail hour outdoors and the reception indoors- but we don't want that.

 

I inquired about what "standard" means, but have not heard back yet....I've been trying to email the WC with ideas to make sure we are on the same page and to get price quotes to see if my ideas were do-able.

 

The flood lights seem like the most practical, but the lanterns will probablly add more ambiance?

[soltamargo]

You are very smart to be thinking about light... if you are having an outside reception, it's a MUST...

 

Paper lanters will help, maybe not provinding huge light, but definitevily ambience and decor... those are so beautiful!!!...

 

I'm dealing with the same situation, and I got lots of paper lanterners, besides I'm considering party lights : http://www.asianideas.com/rainasparlig.html

 

AND I'm sure the hotel can provide tikki torches.

 

Candles are a must, but make sure they are "wind proof" meaning have a long vase where to hold them, otherwise they wont stay on.

 

[leigh miller]

and if its all concrete you can put your tiki tourches in a nice pot with some sand in it to anchor them.