Best Outdoor Event Lighting Ideas for a Party or Wedding

Having an intimate gathering and in desperate need of dazzling lights? You’ve hit the jackpot! Whether you plan on hosting a patio dinner or an elaborate backyard wedding, using the right outdoor event lighting is crucial to a successful affair. 

Professionally designed and installed landscape lighting is a fantastic strategy to ensure the right atmosphere for any event so it can last well into the evening hours. Illuminating your outdoor space with lanterns or string lights sets the perfect ambiance for all kinds of parties.

By using outdoor lighting for events, your backyard will always be “party-ready”. Above all else, landscape lighting throughout your property makes guests feel comfortable and helps them understand the layout of your space when the sun goes down. Installed lighting fixtures can highlight important areas, including entrances, exits, pathways, steps, and water features.

With that said, let’s dive into how our holiday or event lighting services can bring your venue to life.

Event Lighting Installation Features and Designs

Installed exterior lighting can truly take outdoor parties and events to the next level. So, it’s time to start welcoming guests to special occasions with stunning visual appeal. 

By incorporating outdoor event lights in your decor, you can turn any basic outdoor space into a venue for royalty.

Here’s a closer look at a few event lighting design ideas and features you can use to make your special occasion an unforgettable experience:

Path Lighting

Properly illuminated walkways are not only helpful for visitors, but they also provide safety. Path lighting can visually delineate the boundaries of your venue and lead guests safely from one area to another. 

Path lighting can be simplistic in style or custom-made to highlight architectural and design patterns on your property. Swirl or geometric patterns used on bollards will produce unique lighting details. Residential bollards can turn a front entrance into an exceptional space or a plain walkway into an extraordinary path to meander.

Patio and Deck Lighting

Patio and deck lighting helps illuminate steps and railings for your visitors. You can use these outdoor event lights to clearly define your entertainment space for guests to use.

Specialized lighting in outdoor kitchens, bars, and the seating areas of decks and patios can create a lively atmosphere and a resort-like feel. Corners, steps, and perimeters can be lit as well. This could take your party, wedding, or corporate event to a whole new level.

Colored Lighting

Colored lights can provide a beautiful, serene wash of color while illuminating edges. LED underwater lights can change color, providing the appropriate feeling for your gathering.  Ponds, waterfalls, or fountains can be beautifully illuminated. Let light reflect off the water elements in your space for a twinkling effect with a mesmerizing appeal.

Accent Lighting

Accent lighting can precisely highlight trees and other backyard focal points. This can be a great way to add an extra layer of drama to your lighting strategy. Spotlight your favorite ornamental tree, a section of your garden, or your landscape art. Present your visitors with the beauty your landscape has to offer by showing them directly where to look.

One of the greatest benefits of outdoor event lighting is that your backyard will always have the foundation for future events or gatherings. Even better, you’ll be able to take advantage of your lighting between events when you and your family enjoy the space on your own.

Simply add some candles or personal decorations and some flare to suit your party, wedding, or corporate event theme, and your stage is set.

5 Outdoor Event Lighting Ideas to Consider

Enhancing your backyard gatherings or small corporate events with the right lighting can create a welcoming and memorable atmosphere. You’ll have a wide selection to pick from, but for now, here are some of the best outdoor lighting ideas to consider:

1. Hanging Lanterns

Hanging lanterns add a timeless and elegant touch to any outdoor space. The warm glow they emit creates a cozy, intimate atmosphere that works well for evening garden parties, wedding receptions, or romantic dinners. 

Opt for lanterns with intricate designs or vintage finishes for an upscale vibe. These are particularly effective for events aiming for a rustic, bohemian, or classic theme, as they can blend seamlessly with natural surroundings.

2. LED Rope Lights

Flexible and versatile, LED rope lights can outline walkways, wrap around railings, or highlight the perimeter of event spaces. The durability and weather resistance of outdoor lighting makes them perfect for outdoor settings, even in unpredictable weather. 

These types of string lights are ideal for casual gatherings like birthday parties, BBQs, or pool parties, as they offer a colorful and festive ambiance. Their ability to come in various colors also allows you to match them with specific event themes.

3. Fairy Light Curtains

These cascading lights create a stunning visual effect that can act as a backdrop for photo booths, dining areas, or even as makeshift “walls” to define the boundaries of event spaces. 

Their delicate glow adds a touch of whimsy and magic, making them perfect for milestone celebrations like weddings, engagement parties, anniversaries, or baby showers. Their unique aesthetic instantly elevates the atmosphere and draws attention to focal areas.

4. Mason Jar Lights

This is a budget-friendly yet charming option. Mason jar lights exude a rustic and DIY charm. Simply fill the jars with LED string lights or lit candles and place them along tables, steps, or garden paths. So, you won’t have to break the bank to create unforgettable moments.

These are ideal for casual, intimate events like family gatherings, outdoor dinners, or smaller celebrations where a laid-back, homely atmosphere is desired. Their unique look makes them conversation starters and enhances the theme of simplicity and creativity.

5. Projection Lighting

Projection lighting transforms ordinary surfaces into works of art. By projecting patterns, logos, or themed images onto walls, fences, or trees, you can create an immersive experience for your visitors during special occasions.

This is perfect for corporate events, themed parties, or holiday gatherings, as it adds a dramatic and professional touch. Unique and highly customizable, projection lighting allows for personalization to fit the mood and purpose of the event.

Get in Touch About Your Special Event Lighting Today

Using a professional will help ensure sophisticated, well-integrated lighting for your next event. Contact your local Lighthouse Outdoor Lighting designer today to discuss our extensive range of lights that can easily transform your backyard into a high-end venue.