Event lighting to create a “WOW” factor

Lighting creates atmosphere. It can be one of the most important aspects of event theming as a driving factor in setting tone, mood and ambience. For any event to have impactful lighting, you’ll need to consider colour, intensity, direction, distribution, movement, and texture. Keep these techniques in mind - create the right mood and set up your event in style.

1.       Gobos

The perfect example of a well-executed Gobo is the ever-famous Bat symbol on Gotham City. Gobos are stencils or templates placed over a light source to create shape.

2.       Spotlights

Spotlights are a great way to emphasise specific components within an event. Hot tip… a great way to make the best use of spotlights is to illuminate bodies of water in your venues. The light reflects off surrounding surfaces, creating a stunning and memorable effect.

3.       Pin Spots

Want to set the mood without being too obvious? Imagine sitting in a valentine-themed event and each table is dimly lit with a red pin spot. Now imagine it being brightly lit with a spotlight. Which one is better?

Pin spots provide ambient lighting but can also highlight key areas throughout your event.

5.       Projections

Whether you’re hosting a historical meet-up, a future/science fiction discussion, or a business event, projections are an interesting way to create a unique texture or pattern on your venue’s walls, be it a design, animation, or moving graphics.

6.       Create a light show

Light shows are always fun. Combine a range of different techniques to create a moving show accompanied by music.

7.       Dynamic lighting
Dynamic lighting is a great way to subtly add more colour and design to your event. Think of it as a huge lava lamp, but instead of the motion being random and in water, it’s on a wall and in harmony with music.

Event management becomes super fun and creative when you get to play with lighting. It’s all about your imagination here, experimenting with satiating your audience’s visual and auditory senses. It can really help your event stand out, creating a memorable wow effect for your audience, encouraging them to talk about it for a long time afterwards!

Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer,
David Yakas