Image: Kate Drennan – Net Pendant at Matilda Bay
Hey there, Alex here!
Welcome back to Lighten Up, where we dive into the world of event lighting and explore how it can truly transform your space.
Today, we’re talking about something that’s close to everyone’s hearts (and wallets): how to make your event budget go further.
Spoiler alert: with the right lighting choices, you can do a lot without breaking the bank.
So, let me show you how lighting can become your secret weapon to create a stunning event without the hefty price tag.
Frasers. Florals by Sir Botanical
1. Cost-Effective Ways to Transform Your Venue
Sometimes, your dream venue is a bit beyond your budget. Here’s the trick: let lighting do the heavy lifting. By using strategic lighting, you can turn a simple space into something truly magical—no pricey purchases required. For example, consider the following:
- RGB Uplights can add depth and drama, highlighting architectural features or creating soft, colorful washes on the walls.
- Table Lamps can create a cozy, intimate vibe, perfect for drawing attention to key areas like the head table or centerpieces, making them pop without splashing out on extravagant décor.
Therefore, instead of opting for a big outlay on decorations, let lighting do the work and make your venue shine.
Assembly Yard. LED Lighting. Image: Alex Cohen
2. Save By Combining Lights and Additional Décor
Here’s a fun fact: the right lighting can actually reduce the amount of décor you need. By décor we mean anything from the extend of your flowers in the space, to backdrops or candles; to centrepieces, furniture and table settings – the whole shebang!
Rather than spending on large-scale decorations, consider using lighting to direct focus to key areas, creating a lush, well-decorated vibe with less.
For instance, picture a bridal table with feature lights integrated into the florals, drawing attention to the bride and groom and creating a romantic glow illuminating the head table. The result? A stunning event that looks high-end without the high-end cost.
3. Double-Duty Lighting: Function Meets Style
Let your lighting do more than just light up the room—make it part of the design. Festoon lights or LEDs placed strategically can serve as both functional lighting and decorative elements, giving you more for your money. Looking for an elegant touch?
Our Moon Table Lamps are a great choice for adding practical lighting while doubling as décor, creating a seamless blend of function and style for your event.
Bailey Brewing. Image: Ridhwaan Moolla
4. Lighting That Works Twice as Hard
Lighting is flexible in ways that traditional décor can’t be. You can use soft, intimate lighting for dinner and switch to colourful, vibrant lighting for the dance floor—all with the same setup. A great budget-saving tip?
Up lights from the pre-dinner drinks can be repurposed later in the evening for the dance floor. This creates continuity while cutting down on equipment costs. You can even have warm white for drinks and change to a colour later in the night (yep, our RGB Battery Uplights do this!).
5. Atmosphere Without the Price Tag
Atmosphere is everything, but it doesn’t have to cost a fortune. LED lights give you total control, letting you change colours and brightness to suit each part of the night—romantic during dinner, high-energy for the dance party. Want to add some drama?
Use dimmers to create an intimate mood for speeches, then turn them all the way down when it’s time to party. It’s an easy way to change the vibe without extra spend.
Havana Shades & Drop Pendants. Image: Zac Taylor
Ashton Pandeant at Matilda Bay
Final Thoughts There you have it—five ways to use lighting to stretch your event budget further. With thoughtful planning, you can create an unforgettable experience without the high cost. Whether you’re aiming for elegant, intimate, or full-on festive, lighting can make it happen.
Looking to add some magic to your event? We’re here to help! At Festoon, we specialise in turning your vision into reality—without blowing your budget. Until next time, keep shining bright!
Alex Peddie Co-Founder and Creative Director, Festoon
