Avoid 3 Major Event Lighting Mistakes

You’ve seen your future event in your mind, and you know your dream décor will give your party a lasting impression. The food you’ve selected will be delectable; the DJ and the band will provide sensational sounds sure to overwhelm the night with energy. It’s a vision executed down to the last painstaking detail; just add flawless lighting, and everything will be perfect.

But wait—who can provide lighting? What kind of lights will guarantee your event’s dream look? How much does lighting cost? Is it even necessary? These are all good questions, and often they’re difficult to answer on your own—unless you know a lighting professional. Let’s look at the three biggest mistakes you can make in letting an amateur light the way:

Mistake # 1: Have the band or a DJ provide the lighting. 

It’s common for a band or DJ to offer lighting packages with their service, but they generally own low-end and marginally professional lighting that doesn’t have bright color choices or reliability. As a musical service provider, a band or DJ may lack the technical skills and knowledge necessary, and their lights may be missing the clean appearance of unobtrusive lighting fixtures.

Solution: Let the band or DJ do what they do best: create music and ambiance. Good bands and DJs will have lighting partners they can vouch for, ensuring that you receive top-quality lighting from start to finish from a standout professional.

Mistake #2: Expecting your venue to provide lighting as part of their rental package. 

Except in hotels, it’s rare for soiree venues to have in-house, high-quality audio/visual equipment. If you do find a venue with A/V capabilities or gear, they’re often grossly overpriced and don’t offer creative lighting perspective.  

An additional drawback to in-house audio, video and lighting services is the standard procedure of management setting lighting up before the event, leaving and then returning later only to break it down. This provides zero lighting support during the event beyond operating an on/off switch, making complex lighting a non-starter.

Solution: Seek out a small A/V or lighting company that has a vested interest in satisfying you, your needs and your guests to ensure complete satisfaction.

Mistake #3: You think the lighting in the room is "good enough."  

It’s true: Mother Nature does a fine job of providing unmatched lighting for entirely window-filled event spaces during the day, but any evening soiree or gala in an enclosed space requires extra lights. 

Solution: Use a professional lighting production company to assist with developing your ideas and enhancing your concept to execute the experience of your dreams!

These top tips and tricks were provided by Ken Day of Ken Day Enterprises. They provide audio, video and lighting services that boast a higher standard and more personalized service. Don’t be surprised when you can’t find a website for Ken Day Enterprises because Day only works with highly recommended companies and referred individuals. 

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• Expert Tips to Plan and Organize a Successful Event