Category Archives: Wedding

The Importance of Tent Canopy Lighting

As event lighting specialists at The Lighting & Sound Company, we understand the pivotal role that lighting plays in transforming any space into a captivating and immersive environment. Among the many elements that contribute to creating the perfect ambiance, tent canopy lighting wash stands out as a key method in enhancing the atmosphere and setting the mood for any occasion.

Setting the Stage: Tent Canopy Lighting Wash

Tent canopy lighting wash refers to the placement of battery operated lighting fixtures on tent poles to cast a soft, even glow over the ceiling or canopy of an outdoor tent. This technique not only provides functional illumination but also adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to any event, whether it’s a wedding reception, corporate gala, or outdoor concert.

Photo Credit: Birds of a Feather Photography

Embracing Innovation: Battery Fixtures and CRMX Control

At The Lighting & Sound Company, we’re committed to staying at the forefront of technological innovation to deliver unparalleled lighting solutions to our clients. One of the innovations that have revolutionized the way we approach tent canopy lighting is the use of battery-powered fixtures combined with CRMX control. After countless successful events, we’ll only use Astera fixtures moving forward.

Battery-powered fixtures offer several advantages, chief among them being the ability to minimize visible cabling, ensuring a clean and uncluttered aesthetic for the event space. This is particularly crucial for outdoor events where running cables can be impractical or visually distracting. By eliminating the need for extensive cabling, battery fixtures allow for greater flexibility in positioning and configuring lighting elements, enabling us to achieve precisely the desired ambiance without compromising on aesthetics.

CRMX, or Wireless DMX, takes this innovation a step further by providing reliable and robust wireless control over the lighting fixtures. Unlike Bluetooth or other 2.4GHz wireless technologies commonly used in most battery uplights, CRMX offers superior performance and stability, making it the preferred choice for professional lighting applications.

Photo Credit: Lisa Blume Photography

The Superiority of CRMX

CRMX operates in the 2.4GHz frequency band, similar to Bluetooth and other wireless technologies. However, what sets it apart is its advanced frequency-hopping spread spectrum (FHSS) technology, which ensures interference-free communication even in crowded RF environments.

Furthermore, CRMX offers enhanced security features, such as encryption and authentication, to protect against unauthorized access and interference. This level of security is crucial, especially for high-profile events where privacy and data integrity are paramount concerns.

In addition to its reliability and security, CRMX also boasts exceptional range and coverage, allowing us to control lighting fixtures across large event spaces with ease. Whether it’s a sprawling outdoor venue or a multi-level indoor space, CRMX provides the flexibility and scalability to meet the demands of any event.

Photo Credit: Rachel May Photography

Tent canopy lighting wash is more than just functional illumination; it’s an art form that sets the stage for unforgettable experiences. By harnessing the power of battery-powered fixtures and CRMX control, we’re able to elevate the ambiance of any event space, creating magical moments that leave a lasting impression on guests.

At The Lighting & Sound Company, we’re dedicated to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with lighting design, embracing innovation to deliver exceptional results every time. Whether you’re planning a wedding, corporate event, or outdoor festival, trust us to illuminate your vision and bring it to life with unparalleled creativity and expertise.

Illuminating Elegance: Introducing the Cecilia 8-Light Chandelier

We take great pride in curating an exceptional collection of lighting fixtures that elevate and transform any event space. Today, we are thrilled to introduce a dazzling addition to our repertoire—the Cecilia 8-Light Chandelier. This exquisite chandelier not only brings a touch of old Hollywood glamour but also adds a timeless elegance to any occasion. Check it out in our catalog!

The Classic Charm of Cecilia

The Cecilia 8-Light Chandelier boasts a classic shape that pays homage to the golden era of Hollywood. Its design is a nod to the sophistication and grace that defined that era, making it an ideal choice for events that seek to capture the essence of vintage glamour.

Artisan Craftsmanship: A Closer Look

One of the standout features of the Cecilia chandelier is its artisan loomed hourglass silhouette, meticulously crafted for eye-catching elegance. Each chandelier is a masterpiece in itself, showcasing the skilled craftsmanship that goes into creating this stunning piece.

The honey-toned, Patinaed Brass band that encircles the chandelier adds a warm and luxurious touch. This detail not only enhances the overall aesthetic but also ensures that the Cecilia seamlessly blends into a variety of event themes and color schemes.

Natural Rope Elegance

The material used for the hourglass silhouette is none other than natural rope. Which not only adds a unique and rustic element but also brings a sense of organic warmth to the ambiance. The combination of the Patinaed Brass band and the natural rope creates a visually striking contrast. This makes the Cecilia a statement piece that draws attention and admiration.

Versatile Elegance for Every Occasion

Whether you’re planning a wedding, a corporate event, or a social gathering, the Cecilia 8-Light Chandelier is a versatile choice that adapts effortlessly to various settings. Its timeless design ensures that it remains a centerpiece, captivating guests and creating a memorable atmosphere.

Illuminate Your Events with the Cecilia

In conclusion, the Cecilia 8-Light Chandelier is more than just a lighting fixture—it’s a symbol of sophistication, craftsmanship, and timeless elegance. When you choose the Cecilia, you’re not just renting a chandelier. You’re making a statement and setting the stage for unforgettable moments.

Visit our showroom or explore our online catalog to witness the captivating beauty of the Cecilia 8-Light Chandelier. Elevate your events with the magic of old Hollywood and let the Cecilia cast its radiant glow on your special occasions.

Tent Lighting with Chandeliers

When it comes to creating a beautiful ambiance for weddings or special events, lighting is key. One of the most stunning ways to light up a large tent is with the use of chandeliers. Chandeliers can create a romantic and elegant atmosphere, while also providing practical lighting for the event. Check out our full collection of chandeliers on our catalog.

Chandeliers are a timeless lighting option that has been used for centuries in homes, castles, and grand halls. In recent years, chandeliers have become increasingly popular for weddings and special events. One of the main benefits of using chandeliers inside of large tents is they create a stunning focal point that adds a touch of elegance to any event. Chandeliers come in a wide variety of styles, sizes, and materials, which means they can be tailored to fit the specific aesthetic of any event.

Photo taken by Terri Baskin
Photo taken by Jeremy Harwell

Safety

One of the most important considerations when hanging chandeliers inside of a large tent is safety. Chandeliers can be quite heavy, which means that they need to be hung securely to avoid any accidents or injuries. This is where a specialist event lighting company comes in. These companies have the experience and expertise needed to safely hang chandeliers overhead. This ensures that they are securely fastened and won’t pose any risks to guests or the tent itself.

Photo taken by Kir Tuben
Photo taken by Kir Tuben

Another benefit of using a specialist event lighting company to install chandeliers is the large selection of chandeliers that they offer. These companies typically have a wide range of chandeliers in various styles, sizes, and materials, which means that they can provide clients with a range of options to choose from. This is especially important for weddings and special events, where the lighting needs to be tailored to fit the specific aesthetic of the event. With a large selection of chandeliers to choose from, clients can find the perfect lighting solution for their event.

In addition to offering a wide selection of chandeliers. Lighting companies also provide clients with guidance and advice on the best method of of lighting your event. These companies have a wealth of experience and knowledge when it comes to event lighting. This helps clients create the perfect ambiance for their event. This could include advice on where to place the chandeliers, what type of lighting to use, and how to create a cohesive lighting design. A design that ties in with the rest of the event décor.

Photo taken by Rachel May
Photo taken by Rachel May

Chandeliers

Overall, using chandeliers inside of large tents can create a beautiful and elegant ambiance for weddings and special events. However, it’s important to work with a specialist event lighting company to ensure that the chandeliers are hung safely and securely. And that the lighting design is tailored to fit the specific needs of the event. With their experience and expertise, these companies can help create a stunning lighting design that will leave a lasting impression on guests.

In conclusion, chandeliers are a beautiful and practical lighting option for weddings and special events taking place inside large tents. They create a stunning focal point that adds a touch of elegance to any event, while also providing practical lighting. With their expertise and large selection of chandeliers, these companies can help create a stunning lighting design that will make any event truly memorable. Contact The Lighting & Sound Company today to arrange a chandelier rental.

Why You Need Wedding Lighting

No doubt planning a wedding requires hundreds, maybe thousands of decisions. Everything from flowers and color palettes to seating arrangements and now safety protocols have to be decided. But, when it comes down to your wedding day’s overall design and aesthetic, wedding lighting is one of the most overlooked elements. Wedding lighting is an absolutely crucial design element that should never be skipped or ignored. It’s the best way to transform your ceremony and venue spaces from ordinary to downright spectacular. And the result will be every detail will look even more beautiful than you ever dreamt.

Why Is Wedding Lighting Important For Your Wedding?

Without the proper lighting, your photos may be dark; your guests won’t be able to see their food or find their way to the dance floor. Sure! It’s an extra expense, but without the proper wedding lighting, the romance and whimsy of your extra special event may be lost. 

Here are some creative ways that you can illuminate your wedding event.

Bistro Lighting

There is something so magical about bistro lighting that makes them perfect for weddings and special events. These are also referred to as fairy lights, string lights, twinkle lights, or cafe lights. Strands of light bulbs can be draped in different areas around your wedding ceremony or reception. Bistro lighting is super versatile and a cost-effective way to add lighting to any space. This is why they are great for weddings. We especially love them at outdoor weddings such as backyard, courtyards, etc.

Uplighting

Uplighting is just that. It’s placing lighting fixtures that are masterfully placed next to architectural features or against the wall and around the perimeter of rooms or venues to project columns of light upwards. The color of the uplighting can be standard or coordinated with your wedding theme or color palette. Uplighting is probably the most popular as it adds a dramatic wedding lighting effect.

Gobo & Projection Patterns

If you really want to WOW your guests, add some projection patterns or Gobos to your wedding. Gobo lighting is a custom-made template that light shines through a lighting fixture to project a pattern. Many couples use these to project their monogram on a wall or the dancefloor. Or get extra fancy by projecting a motif or design unique to them on the ceiling or wall. Your wedding guests will be immediately impressed with Gobo lighting at your wedding. Worth every penny. 

Pinspotting

You’ve probably never heard this term before. Pinspots are small spotlights used to illuminate critical focal points such as your centerpieces, wedding cake, etc. 

Chandeliers

To really transform a space, add chandeliers as your wedding lighting. Chandeliers immediately add a touch of regal elegance and fairytale wonder to any room. And we especially love them in outdoor spaces. Imagine floating down the aisle under suspended chandeliers? Sounds like a dream, right?

cecilia chandeliers hanging in tent
Photo taken by Shannon Moffit

How Do You Decide On The Right Wedding Lighting For Your Event?

Unless you’re a wedding planner, deciding which wedding lighting is right for your event may be difficult. Your wedding venue can often help, but if you’re getting married outdoors or the venue doesn’t offer this as a service, you’re going to need help.

Enlist the help of a professional lighting and sound design team so that you can use their creativity and knowledge to develop a wedding experience unlike any other. Remember your wedding day is not just a dinner and dancing party. It’s a celebration of two souls becoming one—a celebration of your love story. Having the proper lighting will add a sense of whimsy, romance, sophistication, and more. Without it, your wedding may lack style and personality. 

Discuss your ideas with your lighting design team, tell them the overall feeling and look you want to achieve. Then, make sure to look at their portfolio; it’s a great way to learn what they can do and maybe even get a little inspiration for your wedding lighting. 

Places To Add Wedding Lighting At Your Event

We know your head is swimming with wedding planning stuff, so knowing where you can add wedding lighting is probably not on your mind. Here is a checklist of places throughout your wedding that you can add lighting. And remember, candles are also a source of wedding lighting and can easily illuminate spaces.

  • Ceremony backdrop
  • Dancefloor
  • Ceremony aisle
  • Cocktail tables
  • Reception tables
  • Bar area
  • Trees
  • Outdoor walkways
  • Guestbook table
  • Overhead lighting
  • Wall or floor projections
  • Dessert table
  • Sweetheart table backdrop
  • Food stations
  • Centerpieces

Understanding that wedding lighting is essential to your wedding vibe is the first step to an unforgettable wedding day. Make sure to add wedding lighting to your wedding planning to-dos. We don’t want you to regret not having your wedding lit adequately. For other ideas on how to elevate your wedding decor and experience, check out our draping and sound.

Dover Hall Event & Wedding Lighting

Lighting at Dover Hall

Is it possible for this awesome venue to get any better? We may be biased, but we’d like to think so. We believe that adding popular lighting services, such as uplighting, bistro lighting, draping, or pin spotting can truly enhance an already amazing venue. Not just at Dover Hall either, but at every venue. Feeling overwhelmed about these terms? Don’t worry, we’ll walk you through it using examples from events we’ve done at Dover Hall.

Are you interested in Dover Hall or are you planning on having an event there? Talk about an exquisite venue! Dover Hall is a picturesque estate with rolling hills and beautiful views. This venue has it all – An amazing bridal suite, professional kitchens, and a ballroom that opens onto large, open terraces. If you’re looking for a venue that offers every amenity needed for an event and has the ability to wow your guests, look no further than Dover Hall; this venue will not disappoint.

Uplighting

Uplighting at Dover Hall

As you may know, uplighting is the technique of pointing a high powered light, typically an LED light fixture, at the wall in order to create a column of light. This can help to create an ambiance in the room that matches the vibe and theme you are hoping to achieve for your event.

Uplighting is a perfect complement to the ballroom at Dover Hall. The large walls, vaulted ceilings, and tall drapes lend themselves perfectly to the column effect of the uplights. Uplighting can help you set a mood or theme and can make your event one to remember.

Uplighting doesn’t have to be limited to just the ballroom either, uplights also look great on the exterior of the building, trees, and other points of interest.


Draping

Our custom 22′ drape designed and fitted specifically for the Dover Hall ballroom

Draping an event is very exciting because it can be whatever you want it to be! You can have a custom design in mind when approaching a draping company; ask their designers to come up with something that fits your style; or a little bit of both. Sometimes drape is used to cover something in a venue that you don’t wish for guests to see, separate the ceremony space from the reception space, or create a spectacle. While white drape is the most common, event drape can be any color you’d prefer.

Draping is especially interesting at Dover Hall. While the maroon drape that is in the ballroom is great, it’s not for everyone. The Lighting & Sound Company has 22′ tall white poly-premier drape made specifically for the ballroom. To use our draping, the current draping doesn’t need to be removed or modified. We bring our own supports and simply cover the existing drape in a way that makes it look like it’s been there the whole time. The white drape look can add a whole new dynamic to the beautiful ballroom.


Bistro Lighting

Bistro lighting in the great ballroom at Dover Hall

One of the most popular lighting services of the past few years has been bistro lighting. Bistro lighting, which can also go by the name of cafe lighting, festoon lighting, or string lighting not only looks great, it is also very useful for practical and functional purposes. It is often used to add design elements while at the same time allowing guest to see the facilities and all of your other design decisions. Multiple patterns can be used while hanging bistro lighting which allows it to be flexible and diverse while also allowing you to get creative with designs. It can be zig zagged, single crossed, or even festooned out from a single point.

At Dover Hall, bistro lighting can be used to add an extra flair to the large ballroom. It allows guest to enjoy those vaulted ceilings while bringing the feel of the event more inward and allowing for a more intimate environment. Using bistro lighting at Dover Hall fits right in with the stone walls and medieval-style chandeliers.


Pinspotting

Pinspotting at Dover Hall

Have you spent weeks finding the perfect centerpieces? You don’t want them blending into the background- you want them to pop! That’s where pinspotting comes in. Pinspotting allows elements of your design to stand out, no matter how you’ve decided to set your mood lighting. Just check out this example.

No matter what venue you choose, we recommend considering pinspots and Dover Hall is no exception.


You can find more information about the services listed in this post by visiting our lighting services page, or see more images of these services by visiting our gallery. You can visit the official website of Dover Hall here.

What You Should Know Before Using an In-House AV Provider

Once you’ve inked a contract to rent a venue for your event, your next thought is probably choosing the vendors that will provide services at your event. Sometimes the venue has requirements, such as, they must handle the catering.

Many times, the venue will also offer to provide your audio-visual and lighting services. Unlike the catering staff, who are likely employees of the venue, the AV provider is most commonly a contractor of the venue who they recommend to their clients. (Sometimes this is not the case, and the venue does have employees who handle AV needs)

Pros and Cons of using in-house AV

Is it a problem that your venue provides AV services for your event? Not necessarily, but consider all the aspects. Here are the details:

Hotels and even some wedding venues say that it is more convenient for you to use their in-house AV team. After all, they work at the venue regularly and they (might) keep their equipment there. In case of last-minute changes to your event, the house can just grab more gear from their closet. You have one contract for the space, food/beverage, and audio-visual. Maybe there is a required penalty you have to pay if you don’t use their AV provider.

Many times, the in-house AV provider has a commission agreement with the venue. This means they pay a percentage of your AV contract total back to the venue. If you don’t mind spending extra money then this is not a concern. But if you want to reduce your AV budget, a local lighting company can usually provide better service at a better price.

These venues might neglect to tell you that the in-house AV vendor is almost certainly paying a large commission back to the venue, charged directly to you. The venue will likely forget to mention that the “on-site equipment” has indeed been onsite for 25 years and is outdated and unreliable. And there will be no mention that the “dedicated technician” for support during your event will have to service all of the rooms at the venue. Just when you need help connecting your laptop at the start of your presentation, the technician might be fixing the sound in another room, and will come over to you when available.

Quality AV Services are Key

The lighting and AV play a key role in having a perfect event or wedding. If nobody can hear the bridal party speeches because the sound was bad, all your guests will remember. Imagine if the projector breaks and nobody can see the presentation. Your audience’s key takeaway will be that your event was poorly planned. You can see that the selection of an AV company dedicated to ensuring your event runs smoothly is critical.

At The Lighting & Sound Co, we believe that service before and during your event is the most important aspect of our relationship with you. We work with you to determine a lighting and AV scope that fits your specific needs. We don’t provide cookie-cutter equipment that is barely related to your event vision. Our skilled technicians are dedicated only to your event when onsite. If you call your account manager for help, the response will be “someone is coming to fix that issue.”

The Subtle Art of Draping

Picture this. A chic wedding with beautiful and luxurious waves of fancy Wedding Draping fabrics nicely wrapped, drooped, and puddled to the ground.

Fabric for Fairytales. That’s what some would say. 

In a nutshell, Wedding Draperies are flowy, light, and breezy – a perfect way to add grace and style to any special event, including weddings.

Wedding Drapery Fabrics Can:

  • Cover things you don’t want to see at a wedding venue meant for romanticism.
  • Highlight inviting spaces within the ceremony or reception.

Needless to say, wedding draping treatments for wedding celebrations and other fancy events are an incredibly helpful tool to structure, as well as personalize, any occasion to precisely the way you desire it.

Nowadays, Wedding Draping is a crucial element to countless wedding coordinators and brides-to-be. Wedding drapery is soft, yet refined, and its uses are many.

3 Reasons Why Numerous brides-to-be love using Wedding Draping:

  1. To hide unattractive aspects of event spaces.
  2. To turn blah entrance ways into something grand.
  3. To add sophistication and style to any kind of location to contribute to the overall ambiance.

By the way, there is no wedding drape too small. Wedding Drapery Sizes can range anywhere from 1’ to 30’ tall!

Trending Locations for Wedding Drapery Rentals

One thing is for sure:  Weddings these days are not about basic spaces. Combine wedding drapery to transform the most beautiful of areas:

  • Luxurious Wedding Tents
  • Banquet Halls or Hotel Event Spaces
  • Barns
  • Museums
  • Conservatories
  • Botanical Gardens
  • Boats and Yachts
  • Backyard Areas
  • Beaches
  • Churches
  • The list goes on…

Popular Wedding Drapery Ideas

Draping Ideas for Weddings include ceiling canopies, room liners, and backdrops as well as tent and stage draping. You’ll want to pick professionals that offer a free design consultation to explore your options.

Use it to develop a one-of-a-kind backdrop for food tables or merely split a room in half to divide the space in two. Wedding draperies can also be used as a backdrop for the musicians performing during the reception.

The design enhancements are limitless.

TOP IDEAS:  When to Use Wedding Drapery 

When Ceremony and Reception must be in the Same Space
Use wedding drapery for an elegant way to direct the guests to the ceremony on one side as if it’s in one intimate space.

Bistro Lighting or Up lighting
Attempt to incorporate draping with bistro lighting or up lighting to add flair to your once-in-a-lifetime event. Remember that wedding draping can be hung anywhere.

When Needing to Hide Ugly Ceilings and Beams
Create an intimate space by covering high ceilings, irregularly shaped rooms, or outdoor tents.

When Needing a Backdrop to Highlight or Hide Something 
Create depth and a prettier atmosphere.  Get Trendy!

  • Use wedding drapery around a unique piece of art to dress up blank wall space.
  • Mix elements such as drapery and vines to create a textured space behind the band.
  • Create Photo Backdrops with drapery and frames for Unique Photography backgrounds.
  • Drape fabric around small windows to make them appear larger and grander than what they are.

Dessert or Food Tables
Spice up your food and treat tables using wedding drapery layers, then overlay with a sequin or sheer drape of a different color.

Head Tables
Draping tulle around your head table is the absolute best way to create a focal point never forgotten. And don’t forget, there is a style for every preference.

Wedding Arches
Combining drapery with branches or flowers on a wedding arch is amazing and breathtaking.

Best Wedding Draping Fabric

Honestly, the type of wedding fabric you use to drape at your special event is up to you. They can be used to “drape” tables, walls and/or ceilings. They can be white. They can be Fuchsia. They can be sheer, solid, flat, or shiny. It is totally your preference.

However, there are types of fabrics that are commonly used when using materials of all kinds to drape a wedding.

  • Poly Premier is kind of like table linens at a fancy restaurant. This fabric is an elegant and subtle way to incorporate the colors white and ivory. 
  • Sheer Fabrics will reveal objects behind it and is see-through.
  • Sheer Custom is ultra-wide and excellent when used with arches, arbors, ceilings, backdrops or pipe. A perfect combination when used with lighting. 

Generators and Temporary Power for Events and Concerts

Generators and Temporary Power for Events and Concerts

Electricity: without it, nothing could happen easily. Your event needs power for anything to work. Tent lighting, sound systems, catering equipment, phone chargers, fans/misters, point-of-sales, video screens- all need power. If the event is outdoors or otherwise in a temporary location, you need safe, reliable power distribution for all these items. Of course, this doesn’t mean running orange extension cords out of the window of a nearby building. Reliable power is required for your event to run smoothly. Temporary power enables your event to take place in any venue without concerns about power outages. Sometimes you are bringing in generators specifically because you have a power outage.

Generators

45 kva quiet run diesel generator is delivered to provide temporary power for an event in Richmond VA
A 45kw quiet run generator provides additional power for an event taking place at the Siegel Center in Richmond, VA

There are several reasons you might need a generator for your event. If your venue is in a field, under a tent, far from a building, or even in a building but electrical service is insufficient, a portable generator is the easiest way to supply your power needs. Common sizes run from 1-kw all the way up to 220-kw to supply even the largest concert or major event.

Quiet-Run Generators

A generator that sounds like a lawn mower might be distracting from your event. Ensure your power supplier uses only quiet run generators for event power. Small Honda units (aka putt-putts) are great for lighter needs and are fairly quiet. These can sit nearby wedding tents without bothering guests. However, as the generator gets larger (to supply greater power needs) it doesn’t need to get louder. Trailer-mounted units can supply larger power needs. Certain mega-silent units have extensive sound abatement treatments and are so quiet you can stand next to it and not know it is running.

A portable quiet-run generator and mobile stage are set up for an event
A mega-silent generator will not distract from the main event, even when placed nearby

Reliability and Runtime

Of course a generator provides no value at your event if it stops running. You want to ensure your guests have a seamless experience at your event. An electrical failure will certainly be noticed by all in attendance. To prevent this from happening, a professional power supplier will take many precautions. These include performing maintenance on schedule, monitoring performance telematics remotely, having a technician remain onsite, using two units in parallel or with transfer switch, refueling in advance of empty, and having additional equipment on standby ready to roll out 24 hours a day. A generator company dedicated to perfect events will offer to do all of these items. Some of these come with additional cost while some are included with standard rental price. Be sure to discuss your exact needs and requirements with your power supplier.

Most trailer-mount generators carry enough fuel on board to run constantly for a day or two without requiring refueling, and external fuel tanks are available to increase runtime.

Temporary Power Distribution

With a generator that can supply upwards of 100 amps, there needs to be a safe electrical system to distribute power where it is needed. Feeder cable runs from the generator to portable distribution panels. From there, single or multi circuit cables run from these panels to supply the electrical needs around a venue. There are many variations of panels and cable to suit every event’s unique needs. With a tented wedding, you might drop a spider box at the catering area and for the band. For a larger stage concert, a larger distro or dimmer racks will be placed on stage and socopex multicable ran to the stage lighting positions. For tradeshow booths, a 3-circuit cable with quad box outlets every 10 feet might be used.

Equally important is getting an estimate of the electrical loads so the proper size of equipment can be used. In addition, a qualified technician should specify the distribution equipment so that there is no risk of overload.

Cable Ramps (Crossovers)

Generators provide power for a special event. Cords cross a roadway inside cable ramps protected from vehicle traffic
Cable Ramps (cable crossovers) provide protection where vehicles or pedestrians must cross power cables and allow generators to be located out of the way

A concern with temporary power is that there will be a lot of wires. It’s usually not feasible to hide the wires inside walls or under surfaces. The best power suppliers will take care to run cables out of the way or overhead as much as possible. However, there are many times cases where wires have to cross a walkway. In these cases it is imperative that you use cable ramps to protect attendees and equipment. You might also hear these called yellow jackets or cable crossovers. Additionally, some styles can accommodate the weight of heavy vehicles so you can run cables across a roadway. If heavy foot traffic or accessibility is a concern, you can use ADA cable ramps with very minor slope.

Electrical Consultation

There are a number of considerations when ensuring your event wont shut down due to lack of power. Fortunately, at The Lighting & Sound Co, we have years of experience supplying power for events of all size. We have handled power needs for hundreds of concerts, food truck rodeos, tradeshows, campgrounds, tented events, weddings and other unusual setups. And we know that sometimes you need a generator immediately to resolve a power outage. We can help on an emergency basis with rapid response. We work exclusively with our friends at Temp-Power Generator Rentals to get only top-of-the-line equipment anywhere, anytime it is needed.

Get in touch with us and assure a perfect event by leaving power distribution to the professionals. Give us a call at 804-893-5066 or send an email to events@lightingandsoundco.com and we will do what it takes to power your event.

Wedding Marquee Letters

The decor, style and ambiance of a wedding encompasses who the bride and groom are as a couple. By ensuring that the room is styled in an inviting way, it allows the space to set the tone, make the air magical, and let the guests feel an emotional connection with the couple.

There are many aspects when it comes to planning a wedding. One of the first tasks the bride and groom will face is deciding on a theme. Once they have established a theme, the choices and options that are available when it comes to decor can be a little bit intimidating. Decorations for a wedding are made up of a number of elements, with each component bringing its own essence to the atmosphere.

Decorations Checklist

Flowers: Check!

Centerpieces: Check!

Cake topper: Check!

Tables and chairs: Check!

Lighting: …?

Don’t underestimate the influence of what lighting can do for your wedding! Wedding lighting can help enhance the ambiance of the room and create the desired mood by spotlighting decor and brightening a dark space. It can also enhance the quality and complexion of your photos. Without proper lighting, your guests won’t be able to see the hard work you have put into the decor. Sometimes the lighting itself can be decor. From simple pendants to extravagant chandeliers, you can create that magical tone simultaneously through both light and style.

If you’re looking for a focal decor item, The Lighting & Sound Company’s light-up marquee letters that spell out “LOVE” is the perfect piece. This versatile decoration can be used in a variety of ways that accommodate for all types of wedding themes. It can also be used to light up a space that establishes the desired ambiance and romantic detail that only weddings can accomplish. Marquee LOVE letters are the perfect piece to add to your wedding lighting and will fit into any theme.

Here are a couple of wedding themes that LOVE marquee lights could be incorporated into:

Boho

Pair the “LOVE” marquee lights with fairy string lights, soft ribbons, wood elements and floral touches. Use the decoration as a photo booth backdrop or arrange it around a table where guests can recieve their table assignments or sign a guestbook.

Modern

In order to achieve a modern twist on “LOVE” marquee letters, keep the look clean and simple. Prop them up against a large wall and treat them as the focal point for your dance floor. Or you can add them to create interest in a dead space or blank area that needs more detail.

Rustic

Add whimsical vintage elements to your “LOVE” marquee lights such as wooden crates, detailed candle stick holders and vases, or chalkboard signs featuring swirly cursive lettering. (Add some bistro lighting to provide a warm, homely glow to your space!)

Glamourous

A glamorous theme can be achieved with “LOVE” marquee lights by adding some sparkle and uplighting. Draping a glitzy fabric behind the letters can create an enchanting texture. Have your lighting designer place uplighting surrounding or behind the marquee lights to add a dramatic tone that give your guests a dazzling atmosphere.

There are countless more wedding styles and themes that can successfully incorporate our “LOVE” marquee lights. You will be sure to make a statement with such a unique piece, which you can acquire along with a beautiful lighting design through The Lighting & Sound Company. Take your wedding lighting to the next level, click here to learn more.

Remember, nothing says “love” like giant letters spelling out LOVE…in lights.

Lighting & Decor for The Estate at River Run

Creating classic wedding lighting designs in a new space


The Estate at River Run

Everyone in Richmond’s robust event industry is talking about the estate at River Run. In case you missed the news in Richmond business and wedding magazines, the Massey Manor in Maidens Virginia has been purchased. By this Winter, it will be in use as a wedding and event venue. Doug & Tamra Adams (Adams International School, Virginia Barn Wedding), along with one of Richmond’s most prominent planners and designers, Kim Moody Design, are the new owners. Kim will take on the role of In-House planning and design work at the New River run estate venue. 

River Run Estate Event Lighting Back patio

River Run will be a high-end, corporate and wedding event venue that can serve up to 299 guests. The venue plans to be somewhat selective about their vendors. However, there is no official list as of this post. Kim Moody explains “While we would love to have vendors from all over Richmond work in [The Estate at River Run], we plan on hiring from a small list.” This will keep the property in better shape, and also create a more cohesive week-to-week game plan between vendors that are used to collaborating with each other in the beautiful space.

Our wedding lighting designers were called on to provide lighting for the inaugural event at River Run Estate. The event, a networking event for our good friends at Richmond wedding magazine, a monthly occurrence. The excitement of the new venue brought out all of Richmond’s best wedding vendors. Everyone was excited to inspect the new venue and create ideas for our Richmond brides.  

Photo by Hayes & Fisk Photography

The Design

Our first design at River Run used our extensive collection of powerful outdoor RGB LEDs to highlight and accent the property. The view from the back patio of the manor is perfectly framed, the sun setting perfectly over the James could not be a more picturesque moment, as the deep reds and warm pinks of the sunset blend seamlessly with our our fiery uplighting. Our wireless capabilities means that even outside, we can change the lighting to completely affect the mood. Uplighting is just the tip of the iceberg. With a space like this, anything is possible. We expect to see a lot of Uplighting, bistro lighting, pendants, chandeliers, drape and of course texture gobos to go up in this space.