Turn heads and transform your events with 2015 lighting trends

By Regina Rivera, Bliss Lights, Escondido, Calif. Photos courtesy of Bliss LightsWhen throwing an unforgettable event, lighting is key to making the most of your outdoor or indoor space. The right light can transform a wedding from ordinary to extraordinary, set the mood for unforgettable memories, and even cut costs on other party decorations. The following lighting ideas will transform any event.Spot lights—living through colorColor washes have definitely been a favorite for weddings and other special events for the past few years as they can transform a space like no other. Fill colors are versatile. You can fix them to one color or have the lights flash different colors. Flood lights are great additions to displays, accenting wedding cakes, centerpieces, or sculptures, while spot lights add depth, allure, and a splash of color to complement any party theme. For venues with less space, place accent lights on each corner. This gives the illusion of space, and is a fun way to add a pop of color or play with a theme. Tip: Spot light over guest tables to cast direct light over them and give a little more ambiance to your décor.String lights—twinkle, twinkle, beams of light!No party décor is complete until you add an abundance of strategically placed string lights. These festive lights are ideal for backyard or indoor weddings and events. Anything but boring, string lights come in a wide selection and offer a classic look that will never go out of style. For outdoor weddings, place multi-colored paper bulb strings over guests’ tables for a unique, colorful look or go vintage or industrial with Edison bulb or market strings over an outdoor reception for a gorgeous, soft glow. You can even create a twinkling light backdrop with string lights that will make guests swoon. Tip: For a truly magical night, wrap string lights in any color around tree branches in close loops. This makes for a brilliantly lit tree. Pair the lights with other tree decorations of your choice. The twinkling beams of light will make for great memories.Laser lights—change the way you see lightFor a string light effect without messy cords, landscape laser light projectors are a great choice. Many associate lasers with DJs and dance floors, but this new type of lighting is useful for creating different looks or making existing light displays even more unique. How? By enabling you to create thousands of either static or moving pinpoints of light. Laser lights install within minutes, which may be great for last-minute changes. They come in either red, blue, or green and look great together, alone, or with complementary lighting. One laser light can cover an area of up to 2,500 square feet and is energy-efficient. To stay ahead of the trends, this is one way to create a unique lighting experience that will “wow” guests. Tip: Light up tree trunks with a flood color to match the party theme or preference, and then place a green laser-light projector a few feet away to project a mesmerizing firefly effect onto trees, flowers, and the backyard. Use colors like blue to project onto ponds, pools, and water fountains. This provides magic and whimsy without much effort. For indoor receptions, aim these projectors toward a wall or high ceiling for a star-field effect or shower them down on the dance floor.Candles—soft, classic, and simply magicNothing says romance like candles. They are an inexpensive way to set the mood and enchant guests. The glow of candles makes a beautiful centerpiece or, for a more dramatic look, place candles inside elegantly designed hurricane vases. Well-placed or hung lanterns enhance a terrace or garden. Tip: Enchant guests with beautifully lit candles along a path or stairway. Add an extra unique touch with candle bags for a welcoming and fun look. If trees line the path, pick secure branches and hang sand-filled mason jars with tea candles at different levels for a fairy-tale look.Chandeliers—enchanting, sparkling, and dramaticChandeliers remain a classy touch and a great focal point. For a traditional mansion wedding with a princess theme, a grand chandelier makes an exceptional center point on a reception dance floor. Handy planners and designers can also create custom chandeliers with household items through their own or online inspired ideas. Tip: Hang a cluster of chandeliers to create a dramatic look.When looking at lighting trends and ideas for your next event, why limit yourself to one? Set your own trends by discovering creative ways to combine these looks for a one-of-a kind party experience!