Fog Bubbles with Froggy’s Fog Fobbles F8 Pro Fog Bubble Machine

Are you looking for a way to take your next event to the next level with fog bubbles? Whether you’re planning a Halloween party or a children’s event. Adding the right special effects can make all the difference. And when it comes to creating an atmosphere that’s both exciting and immersive, there’s nothing quite like a high-quality fog machine. That’s where the Fobbles F8 Pro from Froggy’s Fog comes in. This powerful fog bubble machine is designed to create a sea of bubbles. They are filled with fog that spreads in the air when the bubbles pop. From light mist to dense fog banks, making it the perfect choice for a variety of settings. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the Fobbles F8 Pro. We’ll explore how it can add an extra layer of excitement and wonder to your next event.

Photo of Fog Bubbles blowing over a field at Maymont Garden Glow. Photo by Dave Parrish Photography

Check out the Fobbles on our catalog. The Fobbles F8 Pro is a versatile and powerful fog machine that’s designed to create a wide range of atmospheric effects. One of the most impressive features of this fog machine is its adjustable output, which allows you to control the density of the fog. Whether you’re looking to create a light mist or a dense fog bank. The Fobbles F8 Pro can deliver the effect you’re looking for. With its dual-mode operation, you can switch between continuous output and manual burst mode to create varieties of effects.

Features

But perhaps the most interesting feature of the Fobbles F8 Pro is its fog bubble ability. In addition to creating traditional fog effects, this machine can also be used to create a range of other effects. Including bubbles filled with fog, haze, and even snow. This makes it an incredibly versatile tool for creating a range of different atmospheres and unique effects. And because it’s so easy to use and operate, you don’t need to be an expert to get great results.

So how can the Fobbles F8 Pro add an extra layer of excitement and wonder to your next event? One of the most exciting aspects of this fog machine is how it can create a sense of magic and adventure for children. Kids love to see the fog roll in and surround them, creating a mystical and adventurous atmosphere that sparks their imagination. The Fobbles F8 Pro is so easy to use and operate. Children can enjoy the effects of the fog machine.. This can give them a sense of wonder and magic that can make your event truly memorable.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a way to add an extra layer of excitement and wonder to your next event. The Fobbles F8 Pro Fog Bubble Machine is an excellent choice. With its adjustable output, dual-mode operation, and wireless remote control, this powerful fog machine is incredibly versatile and easy to use. And whether you’re creating traditional fog effects or experimenting with bubbles, haze, or snow, the Fobbles F8 Pro is sure to deliver the results you’re looking for. So why not give it a try and see how it can take your next event to the next level? Contact The Lighting & Sound Company today to arrange a fog bubble machine rental.

Sassy Jones Fashion Show

Fashion Show Areas

Welcome Area

For the first annual Sassy Jones fashion show at Main Street Station. In the welcome area, the client provided a 30-ft long step & repeat backdrop which we lit with pink uplighting (the client’s preferred color) to provide a branded backdrop for a selfie station

We also supplied four tv screens with custom-created digital signage that advertised the client’s merchandise before the show and changed to let VIP customers know when it was time for them to go shopping after the event

Runway

We installed a huge fashion show runway in Main Street Station: 100 ft long and 12 ft wide so that all attendees could see the clothing being modeled.

Professional lighting was required to illuminate the runway from all angles, which we supplied via Chauvet R2 Wash fixtures for the side and Martin Mac Viper fixtures for powerful front light. The framing shutters of the Mac Vipers were particularly helpful in lighting only the runway and not blinding audience sitting behind the edge of the runway

Effect lighting for texture pattern projection on the runway was supplied by Robe Pointe fixtures. Blasts of pink light overhead were handled by Chauvet Nexus 4×4 panels.

Backdrop with client logo supplied by Atomic Design

VIP Press Conference Area

We provided an 12×16 stage for press conference with supplementary sound, stage lighting, and drape for the perimeter of the room

Pop Up Shop

60 4×4 platforms elevated models who were showing the latest fashions for sale

Equipment List

30x Chauvet Rogue R2 Wash
16x Martin MAC Viper Performance
12x Robe Robin Pointe
12x Chauvet Nexus 4×4 Panel
4x Chauvet Strike Array 4 Blinder
60x Astera AX9 PowerPars (uplights)
24x Astera AX5 TriplePars (uplights)
2x Look Solutions Unique 2.1 Hazers
16x CM 1/2-Ton Chain Hoist
6x CM 1/4-Ton Chain Hoist
400 linear ft 12″ x 12″ Box Truss
200 linear ft 16′ H Black Velour Drape
200 linear ft 22′ H White Premier Drape
4x 55″ LCD TV
2x 70″ LCD TV
2x Epson L1505 12K Video Projector
12x QSC K12 Powered Speaker
22x DB Technologies T8 Line Array Speaker
56x Staging Dimensions 4′ x 8′ Stage Deck
80x Bil-Jax 4′ x 4′ Stage Deck
200 linear ft 16′ H Black Velour Drape
200 linear ft 22′ H White Premier Drape
1x Genie GTH-636 Telehandler (vertical access)

Reach out to us to schedule your fashion show!

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?

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.

Maymont Garden Glow 2020: Outdoor Lighting

The lush 100 acres of gardens at the Maymont Estate are gorgeous throughout the year. However, at Maymont Garden Glow, you can see the gardens in an entirely different light. There is no place like the Maymont Japanese Garden or Italian Garden anywhere else in the mid-Atlantic region. The Italian Garden has specially distinct patterned flower beds, while the Japanese Garden has many Eastern-style plants. In fact, the Maymont Japanese Garden is the oldest public garden on the East Coast.

During the annual Maymont Garden Glow event, you can see the marvelous gardens majestically lit up. An extensive lighting installation is setup by our professional technicians to make this event happen. We use hundreds of outdoor light fixtures to illuminate the landscape and provide beautiful evening looks. Guests can walk the path and see all the trees, structures, and water features washed in amazing colors.

Our clients often request assistance with outdoor lighting projects, so we are familiar with the challenges posed by long-term outdoor lighting displays. Indeed, we have an enormous inventory of weatherproof light fixtures plus many miles of power cable to enable lighting installations in remote locations.

Maymont Garden Glow Areas

As an attendee of the 2020 event, you could observe many distinct areas with unique lighting elements at each location.

The walk began with numerous patterns of natural textures projected on the stone barn. Afterwards, you could see the large fountain illuminated for a colorful moving water look. Finally, you were led down a stone path into the wooded walk, illuminated with multicolored kaleidoscope pattern projection.

Wooded Walk

As you arrived at the wooded walk, a spectacular view of the Italian Gardens bathed in bright colors appeared. While walking through this area, you could see the surrounding nature lit in corresponding colors that changed in sync with the Italian music played in this area.

Moving towards the Maymont Mansion, guests first looked out over the pond towards the statue of Three Graces. A low lying fog slowly billowed out over the pond while lights shined below creating an eerie look. Furthermore, around the mansion, you could see patterns projected on the exterior walls showcasing the magnificent building. Additionally, you could see the mausoleum silhouetted against the backdrop of the James River.

Mansion Area and Interactive Effect

Coming around the front of the Maymont Mansion was one of the event’s centerpieces. A large lighting display controlled by guests walking through it changed depending where you stand. Accompanying this were sound effects to remind the user of playing a piano. Around Halloween we changed these to spooky themed sound effects. Following this scene, guests were treated to spectacular views of the large illuminated trees north of the Mansion. Wherever you looked, the nature was bathed in majestic colors.

Looking towards the exit pathway were two more major installations. A triangular sculpture made of chinese parasols was set in the middle of the path. You could take fantastic selfies in front of this structure as each parasol was lit from behind with different colors. Then, as you walked down Magnolia Row, over your head were over 2500 bistro light bulbs strung between the trees. Multiple colored paper lanterns hung over some of the bulbs adding color to this area which was already aglow. More than half a mile of bistro string lighting was hanging in the trees over this area.

Maymont Garden Glow By The Numbers:

116 Chauvet Professonal ColorDASH Par H12IP weatherproof LED wash fixtures illuminated gardens, trees, and buildings
32 Astera AX5 LED fixtures with 360-degree diffusion domes used in the peninsula
10 Chauvet Ovation E-260WW IP fixtures that projected colored texture gobos and the event logo
3000 linear ft of bistro string lighting between the west mansion turn and magnolia row, totaling 1500 bulbs
500 linear ft of Chauvet Festoon color changing bistro string lighting on the ramp, light tunnel, and parasols
250 paper lanterns on the magnolia row string lights adding color
Two Interactive Technologies CueServer units for show playback
Two Mega-Silent 30 KVa Diesel Generators for reliable event power supplied by Temp-Power
~6250 linear ft of electric power cable
~3000 linear ft of DMX control data cable
24 cable ramps to protect cables run over walking paths

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

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

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

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.

Examples of bistro lighting at other venues

Pinspotting

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:

To hide unattractive aspects of event spaces.
To turn blah entrance ways into something grand.
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

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.

6 Common Event AV Mistakes to Avoid

At The Lighting & Sound Company, we have been involved with thousands of events. While most events result in positive experiences for all, there is often opportunity to make the event even better. We see some missed opportunities for improvement frequently enough. Here are six of the most common Event AV Mistakes we see. Take note and use these tips to improve your next event!

Bad Sound

Effective sound reinforcement can make or break your event. Nothing will leave your attendees with a bad feeling about the event more than not being able to hear a presenter speak or performer sing. There are many aspects that contribute to good event sound. Microphone choice, speaker placement, venue construction, weather, and distance can all have impacts on the ability of attendees to hear. Perhaps some part of the event layout prevents your av supplier from placing a speaker or mic in an ideal location. Or, the proper speakers to provide good sound comes with a price that is problematic for your budget. A quality AV company will know the right sound system to use in a venue. Sometimes the cost may seem expensive, but you definitely get what you pay for. Cheap sound systems will frequently fail to cover the venue adequately or blare feedback while your presenter has to shout to be heard in the front row.

Coordinate the Powerpoint layouts

If your event will involve video screens displaying powerpoint presentations, ask your AV company about the screen size. Modern screens and projectors will have an aspect ratio of 16:10, while older screens are 4:3. (If your av company only has 4:3 screens, this is an indicator of outdated equipment!) When creating your presentation, configure the powerpoint layout to match the screen at your event. This avoids any lost space or black bars on the sides of the screen.

Waiting to hire your AV company

Bringing in your audio-visual vendor as early as possible always has a positive impact on your event. An experienced production company will be able to point out venue challenges, suggest efficient event layout, observe power availability, verify equipment access, and related items. It is much easier to plan for any of these items or make changes long before the event, instead of the week of the event when custom items cannot be ordered or layouts cannot be adjusted. The AV vendor is one of the first to arrive for an event and is onsite for the full duration, so they have a wealth of knowledge to make recommendations that improve the event experience.

No rehearsal

You might think that since your AV company has brought the best equipment and talented technicians, nothing can go wrong during your event. While this will likely be the case, you do not want to be using a wireless mic or seeing your presentation on stage under the lights for the first time in front of your audience. Having a rehearsal allows you to get familiar with all the event technology. You can know exactly what to expect during the real event.

Using your own laptop

Using equipment you already own often seems like a great way to save some money when planning an event. Indeed, using your own laptop can be acceptable for small breakout room presentations that can be informal. However, for a full general session with many attendees and VIPs, it can be very risky to try to run the presentation from your own computer. You don’t want to be advancing the slides when suddenly your iMessage pops up a chat you’d rather keep private or the computer slows to a crawl because Windows started running updates. A professional av company will have specific presentation laptops ready to go, with all updates completed, all notifications minimized, and no unnecessary programs that could slow down the computer

Plan the load in and load out time

If you have several vendors providing services at your event, they will most likely all need to deliver materials to the jobsite. Some locations have physical limits on simultaneous access. Perhaps there is a narrow driveway, single loading dock, or small freight elevator. Or maybe the venue is doing renovations that restrict loading zones. This could present a problem if all of your vendors arrive at the same time. Frequently your AV company will need to do aerial lift work. This can be challenging if tables or drape have already been setup. Plan for separate load in/out times for all of your vendors so they don’t conflict. Also ensure that one vendor’s equipment setup will not prevent a later setup from occurring.

All in all, you will want to partner with an experienced event audio-visual production company to handle the technical aspects of your event. Let your av company’s offer tips to improve the flow of your event. Looking for a good team to work with? Give a call to The Lighting & Sound Company at 804-893-5066 and ensure a perfect 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.