Alternatives to Up-Lighting

Uplighting is really not designed to be "dance" lighting or dance-inducing. It's really used to create a scene that becomes more personal, unique and romantic.

Dance lighting such as color washes or moving heads are more appropriate for dancing. But... I usually advise brides against the lighting and such.

I mean... do you really want people to talk about your lasers and color blinky lights more than they do about you and your husband when all is said and done?

Good luck with your decision.

This might sound ridiculous, but have you thought about metallic streamer curtains along the walls?

Not knowing what your venue is like I'm not sure that this would lend the look you're going after...but a metallic foil curtain could be really really fun, especially if you have a DJ with one of those multi-color lights DJs all seem to have.

Just go all one color...two colors will look too much like a middle school dance. All gold or all silver would look really cool though! You would definitely want floor to ceiling though, so it depends on your venue.

Thanks for the idea TheLuckiest! That's definitely something I hadn't thought of!

Hi Kelly!

It's no secret. Uplighting is DEFINITELY an investment. The one thing I always talk about with my couples who are thinking of uplighting but cost is a factor is, think about what your priorities are... Would you be willing to part with one aspect of your decorating budget for uplighting?

As much as the color coordinated bows on every chair may look beautiful, and the mega cheese tray might look neat at cocktail hour, people are less likely to remember such details. They will however remember that breathtaking look of when your whole room is painted with eye popping light.

But, that being said, that brings me back to what your goals are for your wedding. If you are only looking for a lightshow during dancing, perhaps a dancefloor lighting package is in order.

Here are a couple examples of what might work for your wedding reception...

http://prymetymeentertainment.net/PTEPACKAGES.html

Best of luck and congrats on your engagement!