Lighting truly makes an event’s design complete. It is probably the most under appreciated part of event planning/design and is often left out due to budget restrictions but I am a full believer in making some room in the budget for lighting for events at “raw” spaces like lofts and tents.

When I hire for lighting design, I often work with NYC’s Levy Lighting, they are often quoted at thousands of dollars in magazines but they are really great there because they will work with your budget if you are just looking for a couple of up lights. Below are some pictures I found of really great lighting:

There are a couple elements I’d like to pick out in this picture. First there is that water effect on the ceiling which I think is just the coolest thing. It’s like eating in an aquarium! Then there is the spot lights on the centerpieces which looks great too.

You can get these light up bars from most rental companies. I found these at Taylor Creative Inc.

some pool projections. this was a Target event.

I’m a big fan of this for a clear tent

Everyone likes flowers, but I thought I’d just post about my favorites as I tend to like more unusual flowers with unique shape and texture.

All time favorite:

Fringed Tulips. I love how they look as if they are made from fabric.

Then there is spider mums.

It’s funny because most people think mums are just signs of being cheap and request they are nowhere near their floral arrangements but I love the shape and texture of a spider mum, it’s so……architectural? You can just buy these (not this color, probably a white or a pale pink) at your corner fruit stand for a couple of bucks.

Birds of Paradise – The “un” flower

I think these are just the coolest because they are black. Not sure what I’d use them for though… They are called Calla Black Star

Finally I really like Stephanotis, they aren’t all that unique but I think they are just real cute and are very polka dot event-ish!

So I wanted to post some pictures of new designs that just came out from one of my favorite west coast stationery companies, Delphine Press. I have been in contact with the founder Erika for over a year now and she is not only talented and makes some really modern but simple designs but is really easy to talk to/work with as well. Check out some new editions to the Delphine Collection:

Here’s a couple of pictures of the Delphine booth at the National Stationery Show a few weeks back. I love the frames!