How Much Does Wedding Lighting Cost?

Planning your dream wedding and wondering about the lighting budget? It typically costs between $1,000 and $4,000, but can range from as little as $200 for DIY options to over $5,000 for professional packages. This guide will break down how much wedding lighting costs, giving you a clear picture of what to expect.

With Rowabi’s expert help, you can explore everything from DIY tips to professional services, helping you create a magical day that fits your budget, even the basic packages or dazzling designs.

Key takeaways

Wedding lighting costs typically range from $200 to over $5,000, with the average couple spending between $1,000 and $4,000.
Your final cost depends on factors like venue size, lighting complexity, and whether you hire a professional.
Basic packages, which include simple uplighting, generally cost $200-$1,000.
Mid-range packages, covering comprehensive lighting designs, average $1,000-$4,000.
Premium packages, featuring custom designs and advanced fixtures, start at $4,000+.

EXPLORE MORE:

The importance of wedding lighting

Types of wedding lighting
Ambient lighting
Task lighting
Accent lighting
Decorative lighting
Uplighting

Factors affecting the cost of wedding lighting

Venue size and layout
Lighting design complexity
Duration of the event
Professional service
Location

Average cost of wedding lighting

Basic lighting package
Mid-range package
Premium package

How much does wedding lighting cost?

Ceremony lighting options
Venue lighting setup
Uplighting for ambiance
String lights for decoration
Custom gobo lighting
Marquee letter and symbol lights
Spotlighting for key moments
Additional lighting expenses

Tips for budgeting for wedding lighting

Determine your priorities
Get multiple quotes
Opt for energy-efficient options
Consider DIY options
Rent vs. buy
Work with your venue
Hiring a professional lighting designer
Benefits of a professional designer
What to ask when hiring

FAQs
Conclusion

The importance of wedding lighting

Wedding lighting is far more than just a source of illumination; it's a critical element that sets the mood, enhances your decor, and creates a magical atmosphere for you and your guests.

The right lighting can transform a simple venue into an elegant ballroom, highlight key moments like your first dance, and even make your wedding photos look more stunning. The importance of wedding lighting lies in its power to tell your love story and reflect your personality through a visually captivating design.

Types of wedding lighting

To understand the cost, you first need to know the different types of lighting available. Each type serves a unique purpose and contributes to the overall aesthetic.

Ambient lighting

This is the general lighting that fills the entire space. It’s the foundational layer of your lighting design and sets the overall tone, whether it’s a warm, romantic glow or a bright, celebratory feel.

rowabi customer wedding outdoor kloe
Outdoor Kloe Rattan Pendant Light is used for wedding decorating. Source: Rowabi

Task lighting

Task lighting is used for specific activities, such as illuminating the buffet table or the cake table. It ensures these important areas are well-lit and easy to navigate for your guests.

wedding task lighting for buffet table
Source: Rowabi

Accent lighting

Accent lighting is used to draw attention to specific features, such as a floral arrangement, a piece of artwork, or a beautiful architectural detail of the venue. This type of lighting creates visual interest and depth.

indoor wedding accent lighting
Source: Rowabi

Decorative lighting

This is where the fun really begins! Decorative lighting includes elements like string light wedding installations, twinkle lights wedding designs, and chandeliers, which serve as decor pieces as much as light sources.

wedding decorative lighting
Source: Rowabi

Uplighting

Uplighting is one of the most popular and impactful types of lighting. It involves placing lights on the floor and pointing them upward to wash walls or architectural features with a color of your choice, creating a dramatic and elegant backdrop.

Want to light up a large ballroom with uplighting? You'll likely spend between $600 and $2,000 for that stunning effect. A great tip to save a little money is to focus the uplights on key spots like the dance floor or the cake table, making those moments really shine!

wedding uplighting reflect wall details
Source: Rowabi

Factors affecting the cost of wedding lighting

So, what exactly influences the price you’ll pay for your wedding lighting? Several key factors come into play.

Venue size and layout

A larger venue with a complex layout will require more lights and a more intricate design, naturally increasing the wedding lighting cost. A smaller, more intimate space can be transformed with just a few well-placed fixtures.

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The first step is always to chat with your wedding venue about what lighting they already have. From there, you can ask your coordinator or planner if they have a lighting specialist they love to work with who can give you a quote.

Lighting design complexity

The more specialized and customized your lighting design, the higher the cost. A basic package with simple uplighting costs will be far less expensive than a premium package that includes a full-scale design with multiple layers of lighting, custom gobos, and intricate hanging installations.

rowabi customer wedding kloe
Source: Rowabi

Duration of the event

Lighting is often rented by the day or for a specific time frame. A longer rental period will, of course, add to the overall price.

Professional service

Although hiring a professional lighting company to design and set up your lighting is more expensive than a DIY approach, it guarantees a polished, high-quality result without the stress.

Location

Costs can vary significantly depending on your geographical location. Expect to pay more in major metropolitan areas compared to smaller towns.

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Average cost of wedding lighting

To give you a better idea of what to expect, here is a general breakdown of average costs.

Package Type	Average Cost Range
Basic Lighting Package	$200 - $1,000
Mid-Range Package	$1,000 - $4,000
Premium Package	$4,000+

This general overview helps set expectations, but remember that the price is highly dependent on your specific choices.

Basic lighting package

A basic package typically includes simple uplighting costs or a few decorative elements like a strand of wedding string lights. This is perfect for couples on a tight budget who want to add a touch of ambiance without a major expense.

Mid-range package

This is the most common option. A mid-range package might include comprehensive uplighting, a string of lights for outdoor wedding installation, and some task lighting for the key areas. This level of service provides a beautiful, professional look.

Premium package

A premium package is a full-service, custom design that can include everything from intricate gobos and chandeliers to spotlighting and complex hanging light installations. This is for couples who want to make a significant statement with their lighting.

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To get you started, our expert has listed some lighting ideas you might want to consider for your big day, whether it's indoors or outdoors. Just read next!

How much does wedding lighting cost?

First, come up with the breakdown of estimated costs for common wedding lighting elements. These prices are based on current market rates in the US and can vary depending on your location, the complexity of your design, and your chosen vendor.

Lighting Element	Average Cost Range
Uplighting (for a ballroom)	$700 - $2,000
Monogram Gobo Light	$200 - $300
Pin-spot Lighting (per light)	$25 - $35
Texture Lighting (per fixture)	$50 - $75
Cake Spotlight	$30 - $100
Bistro/String Lighting (per linear foot)	$3 - $5
Chandelier Rental	$150 - $500
Pipe and Drape (per linear foot)	$7.50 - $15
Pendants (per light)	$15 - $25
Mini-light Canopy (per foot)	$0.50 - $0.75
Lift Rental	~$600
Professional Labor & Setup	$400 - $800
Delivery Fee	$50 - $250

This table provides an excellent starting point for budgeting and will help you prioritize which lighting elements are most important for your special day.

Ceremony lighting options

If you're having an evening ceremony, ensure all walkways are well-lit so guests can easily navigate. You can grab a set of eight LED walkway lights for about $200, plus a few extra dollars for the cables and transformers.

To add a magical touch, consider using twinkle or string lights, which are super budget-friendly—a string of 200 LED lights usually costs between $17 and $20. Just remember to factor in the cost of hooks and hanging equipment, or the labor if you're having a professional set it all up.

Venue lighting setup

Start with the basics provided by your venue. Many venues already have some form of basic lighting in place. You can use this as a foundation and add supplemental lighting to enhance the space.

venue lighting setup
Source: Rowabi

Uplighting for ambiance

Want to add a pop of color and a dramatic flair to your wedding venue? Uplights are the perfect way to do it!

For a large ballroom, you can expect to spend anywhere from $600 to $2,000 to achieve a stunning visual effect. But if you're looking to save a little, a great trick is to focus the uplights on key areas like the dance floor or the wedding cake table, making those moments truly shine!

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This is a great value, and many people wonder how much uplighting is for a wedding, which can be quite affordable depending on the number of lights.

String lights for decoration

Nothing sets a romantic, festive mood quite like the perfect string lights! You have so many fun options to choose from, like classic twinkle lights, vintage Edison bulbs, playful paper lanterns, and delicate fairy lights. They usually run between $3 and $5 per linear foot, but don't forget to factor in the cost of installation and any extra equipment you might need, like extension cords.

If you're dreaming of a truly glamorous look, you might also want to consider adding chandeliers! They typically cost between $150 and $500 to rent, plus the labor to have them installed, but they're guaranteed to add that special touch of romance.

Custom gobo lighting

Want to see your names in lights on the dance floor? A custom gobo light is a super fun way to do it! These awesome projectors can display your names, initials, or wedding date, and they usually run between $150 and $300.

You might even find that your DJ includes a custom gobo as part of their music package, or your venue or wedding coordinator can help you get one set up for a truly personalized touch.

custom gobo lighting
Source: Rowabi

Marquee letter and symbol lights

Thinking of a fun way to add some extra light and a cool photo op? Marquee letters are a fantastic option! You can get them in your initials or a cute phrase like "LOVE" or "XOXO." A custom set will likely run you between $50 and $300, but if you're on a budget, you can often find some great pre-loved ones for around $25 on sites like Facebook Marketplace.

It's a great way to add that personalized touch without breaking the bank!

marquee letter
Source: Rowabi

Spotlighting for key moments

Don't worry about missing your big moment! Your DJ or band will likely have their own spotlights for your first dance, or it might even be included in their package. But if you or your venue needs to bring one in, you can expect to spend somewhere between $30 and $100 for the evening to make sure you're both in the spotlight!

wedding spotlighting couple entrance
Source: Rowabi

Additional lighting expenses

Don’t forget to factor in the cost of labor, delivery, and any extra equipment like lifts for high-ceilinged venues. The spotlight installation cost can add a significant amount to your final bill.

For a special touch, you could use texture lights, which typically run between $50 and $200 per fixture to create beautiful patterns on your walls. To make your centerpieces and tables pop, consider centerpiece lights for just $10 to $30 per table. Alternatively, you can opt for pin spot lighting to really make them sparkle, costing about $20 to $45 per table.

For a unique, modern feel, consider pendant lights, available for around $15 to $25 each. It's all about creating that perfect, magical glow!

Tips for budgeting for wedding lighting

Here are some smart strategies to help you get the most out of your wedding lighting budget.

Determine your priorities

Decide which lighting elements are most important to you. Do you want a dramatic dance floor or a romantic glow for dinner? Focusing on key areas will help you allocate your funds more effectively.

Get multiple quotes

Don't settle for the first quote you receive. Talk to several vendors to compare prices and packages. This is particularly helpful for understanding the average wedding lighting rental cost in your area.

Opt for energy-efficient options

Choosing LED lights over traditional incandescent bulbs will save you money on energy costs and can also be a more sustainable choice.

Consider DIY options

For simple installations like twinkle lights and wedding decor, a DIY approach can save you a significant amount of money. You can purchase your own string lights from a store like Rowabi and hang them yourself.

Rent vs. buy

Decide whether it's more cost-effective to rent or buy your lighting. For complex setups, renting from a professional company is the way to go. For simple fairy lights wedding indoor decor, buying might be cheaper.

Work with your venue

Talk to your venue manager about their existing lighting capabilities and what they allow. They may have specific rules about what can be hung or installed, and their own in-house services may be a great value.

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Hiring a professional lighting designer

While a professional will be more expensive, the peace of mind and quality of the final product are often worth it.

Benefits of a professional designer

A professional designer will handle all aspects, from the initial consultation and design to installation and teardown, ensuring a flawless execution. They can also work wonders with a limited budget, making a few key lights go a long way.

What to ask when hiring

When meeting with a potential designer, ask to see their portfolio, inquire about their experience with your specific venue, and clearly communicate your budget and vision.

FAQs

Why is wedding lighting so expensive?

It's a product and a service all rolled into one. You're renting the lighting, and you've got real human beings setting everything up for you. The more elaborate the setup, the longer it's going to take.

How much does it cost to hang string lights for a wedding?

Typically, the cost ranges between $3 and $5 per linear foot, but you may need to pay more for installation and any additional equipment, such as extension cords. You may also want to install chandeliers for a romantic and glamorous look

How much does professional lighting cost?

A detailed lighting design plan costs between $2,000 and $10,000 at a flat rate and provides clarity from day one. Professional lighting design benefits include substantial long-term savings. LED fixtures and smart lighting systems reduce ongoing energy consumption and maintenance costs

What costs the most at a wedding?

The biggest costs were Catering was by far the biggest wedding day expense for most people. Over half of the respondents (56%) said this was where most of the budget went. Other big costs were the venue (24% of people), followed by drinks (18% said this was the biggest expense)

Is lighting necessary for a wedding?

Lighting is an essential element as it sets the mood for your very special day. Just like in films and photography, lighting changes the aesthetic of everything you see in your venue. Whether it's the decor, the cake, or even your facial features, lighting can make a difference in highlighting these special elements.

What kind of lights are used at weddings?

Uplights: Uplights are popular for adding depth and drama to a wedding venue. Great for highlighting walls, drapery, and architecture.
String Lights: Romantic and versatile, string lights work beautifully in outdoor, tented, or barn weddings to create a magical ambiance.
LED Lights: Energy-efficient and customizable, LED lights are ideal for uplighting, spotlighting, or color washes throughout the event.
Pendant Lights: Stylish and decorative, pendant lights (like rattan or glass) bring a modern, rustic, or coastal touch to receptions and altars.
Chandeliers: Elegant statement pieces that add glamour, perfect for ballrooms, tents, or tree-hung outdoor settings.
Marquee Lights: Bold and playful, marquee letters or symbols are perfect for photo ops, entrances, or dance floor decor.

Conclusion

Wedding lighting is a powerful tool for creating the perfect atmosphere on your big day. By understanding the different types of lighting, the factors that influence cost, and smart budgeting tips, you can design a beautiful and memorable event without breaking the bank.

How Much Does Wedding Lighting Cost?

The importance of wedding lighting

Types of wedding lighting

Ambient lighting

Task lighting

Accent lighting

Decorative lighting

Uplighting

Factors affecting the cost of wedding lighting

Venue size and layout

Lighting design complexity

Duration of the event

Professional service

Location

Average cost of wedding lighting

Basic lighting package

Mid-range package

Premium package

How much does wedding lighting cost?

Ceremony lighting options

Venue lighting setup

Uplighting for ambiance

String lights for decoration

Custom gobo lighting

Marquee letter and symbol lights

Spotlighting for key moments

Additional lighting expenses

Tips for budgeting for wedding lighting

Determine your priorities

Get multiple quotes

Opt for energy-efficient options

Consider DIY options

Rent vs. buy

Work with your venue

Hiring a professional lighting designer

Benefits of a professional designer

What to ask when hiring

FAQs

Conclusion

Read more

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