Outdoor Wedding Lighting Ideas & Inspiration
Choosing the perfect lights is the secret behind creating an ideal ambiance for a marriage celebration, especially one hosted in the open air. As the sun sets, outdoor wedding lighting plays a great role in setting the tone for your Colorado Springs event and making it complete. Plus, it allows you to get creative and make it unique.
And since we wish that your special day is as unique as you, we created a list of lighting ideas that can make it magical!
Outdoor Wedding Lighting Ideas in Colorado Springs
Chandeliers
Chandeliers are one of the best wedding lighting options that won’t let you down. If you are going for an elegant and classy party, then these lights are perfect for the setting. And if you want something more ‘boujee”, think about hanging gold chandeliers above the tables.
This will set a fancy touch to the ambiance and give you the desired look. And if you think that chandeliers are only an inside option – think twice! You’ll be surprised how great they can also look for outdoor celebrations. Chandeliers add a focal point and elevate the overall design. They are often used in tents or framed spaces.
Best for:
- Head tables
- Tented receptions
- Statement design areas
Pros
- High-end visual impact
- Great for photos
- Defines focal areas
Cons
- Higher cost
- Requires secure installation
String lights
If chandeliers are a little too much for you, but you still want that special romantic effect of hanging lighting, then you can use the next best option – string lights. They are a fantastic choice for outdoor wedding lighting, especially if you throw a boho or rustic-themed party. You can create an amazing layout using branches and greenery and add twinkling lights.
String lights are the most requested outdoor lighting option. They provide soft, even coverage and work in almost any setting.
Create a fun and unique tent-like lighting setup by hanging string lights from a pole’s upper end. This is quite an interesting way to elevate the overall atmosphere. A great thing about string lights is that they come in various sizes, shapes, and colors. This means they’re very versatile, allowing you to experiment with the setting.
Best for:
- Overhead canopy lighting
- Dance floors
- Large reception areas
Pros
- Affordable and scalable
- Warm, romantic glow
- Covers large spaces easily
Cons
- Requires anchor points or poles
- Setup can take time
Lanterns
A garden union won’t be complete without the soft, romantic lighting that comes from charming lanterns. Opting for this kind of outdoor wedding lighting means adding a little bit of intimacy to the affair. And the best thing? You can place the lanterns wherever you want or find suitable.
You can choose chic steel ones for the banquet tables or ceremony setup. In addition, they can be a part of your backdrop and look magnificent in your bridal shots.
Lanterns are versatile and work well for both décor and functional lighting.
Best for:
- Aisles and walkways
- Table centerpieces
- Accent lighting
Pros
- Easy to place and move
- Works with candles or LED
- Adds depth to design
Cons
- Limited light coverage
- Needs multiple units for impact
Uplighting
If you really want to add an extra layer of ambiance to your wedding in a very cost-effective way, uplighting is an excellent option to consider.
Strategically placed lights around your venue can completely transform the mood of the space, highlighting architectural features, adding depth, and tying your color palette together in a subtle but impactful way.
Uplighting creates a warm, immersive atmosphere that elevates the entire experience for you and your guests without requiring a major addition to your budget.
Typical Outdoor Lighting Costs
Lighting costs vary based on size, layout, and installation needs.
Average ranges:
- String lights: $500–$1,500
- Chandeliers: $300–$1,000 each
- Lanterns: $10–$50 per unit
- Full lighting setup: $1,000–$3,000+
Larger venues or complex installs will increase costs.
Layered Lighting Setup (Recommended Approach)
Most successful outdoor weddings use a combination of lighting types.
A simple layered setup includes:
- Overhead lighting: String lights or chandeliers
- Accent lighting: Lanterns or candles
- Functional lighting: Pathway or entry lighting
This setup ensures your space looks good and functions well.
5 Steps to Plan Your Wedding Lighting
- Identify your main event spaces
- Choose your primary lighting style
- Add accent lighting for depth
- Confirm power sources or rentals
- Test lighting before the event
Planning early avoids last-minute setup issues.
FAQs
How much lighting do I need for an outdoor wedding?
Most weddings need at least 2–3 lighting types for proper coverage and ambiance.
Are string lights enough on their own?
They can cover large areas, but adding accent lighting improves depth and design.
Do I need professional lighting installation?
For large setups or chandeliers, professional installation is recommended for safety.
What is the most affordable lighting option?
String lights and LED lanterns are typically the most cost-effective choices.
When should lighting be installed?
Lighting is usually installed the day before or morning of the wedding, depending on complexity.
Complete Weddings + Events Colorado Springs, CO | DJs | Photographers | Videographers | Photo Booth Rentals | Coordination
There are many ways to use outdoor wedding lighting and make your reception or ceremony look like a dream. Remember that lights are essential elements for outdoor evening receptions, so don’t forget to add them to your wedding decor.
And if you need some uplighting for your special day, Complete Weddings + Events Colorado Springs can assist you. Get in touch with us to turn your ideas into reality!
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