Wedding lighting, dancefloors and effects: a practical guide

Flowers and tables set the scene in daylight. After dark, lighting does the work. These are the production elements couples ask about most, with the practical facts behind each.

Uplighting

Uplights are small LED fixtures placed at the foot of walls, pillars or drapes, washing them with colour. Wireless units need no cables across the floor, which keeps walkways clear. Our uplighting package is eight wireless LED uplights, which suits most reception rooms; larger rooms may need more.

Dancefloors

A 16 by 16 foot floor is a common size for weddings. LED starlit floors (in white or black) and seamless floors, which can carry the couple's monogram, are laid on top of the venue floor. Ask the venue whether it already has a dancefloor, and about access for setup.

Low-lying smoke

Low-lying smoke creates the "dancing on clouds" effect for a first dance. It stays near the floor rather than filling the room, but you should still tell the venue in advance: some venues have rules about smoke, haze and their fire detection systems.

Cold sparks

Cold spark machines produce a fountain of sparks for an entrance or first dance, supplied in pairs. They are widely used indoors, but venues set their own rules about effects, so confirm with the venue and agree positions away from drapes and guests.

Monogram projection

A projector can show your initials or a design on the dancefloor or a wall. It needs a clear line from the projector to the surface and works best when the room is dark.

Questions for your venue

• Are smoke, haze or spark effects allowed, and does the fire alarm need to be considered?
• Can anything be fixed to walls or ceilings, or must everything be free-standing?
• How much time is there to set up between the ceremony or dinner and the evening?
• Is there a dancefloor already, and what size is it?