Bistro Lights, also referred to as "String Lights" or "Caffe Lights", can add a touch of magic to your event. It's incredible how something so simple can transform the atmosphere and create a stunningly beautiful ambiance. However, it's important to remember to hire a professional lighting design company to handle the planning and installation process. We specialize in creating a perfect lighting design for your event, taking into account all the factors that will make it shine. We have some factors to keep in mind when considering how to incorporate this lighting option we wanted to share with you. 1. Pre-existing hang points: If your venue has attachment points to hang bistro lights, it can save you a lot of money. If you're in the early planning stages and you want this lighting look, it's best to look for a venue that offers this option. If your venue doesn't have attachment points, lighting companies will need to bring hardware and support equipment to attach the lights, which means more crew, more setup time, and a larger truck, all of which will increase your costs. 2. Inflexible Venues: In some cases, venues may not allow vendors to install Bistro Lights on their columns or structures due to past negative experiences where their property has been damaged. At our lighting company, we prioritize the venue's concerns and have come up with a solution to this issue. We have developed a soft strap bracket system that has an almost 100% success rate in convincing venues to change their minds. If you encounter a venue that seems inflexible, we can speak to them on your behalf and present this unique option, along with our top-rated insurance and professional crew. 3. Pro Grade Lighting: It's important to note that not all Bistro Lighting is created equal. Many people assume that the type they see at Home Depot is ideal, but that's not always the case. When connecting the strings to make long runs, there can be large gaps between the sections, they become very heavy the more you connect, and tend to sag as the event goes on. Additionally, they require a lot of power.
However, our lights are professional-grade and provide a superior experience. They can connect up to 500 feet without losing power down the line or blowing a circuit. Furthermore, they make seamless connections so you get even spacing between bulbs no matter how many strings are connected. And the best part? Our professional grade lights come with dimmers, allowing us to set the perfect mood at a moment’s notice. 4. Lighting Design: Professional lighting design companies play a crucial role in setting the ambiance of your event. During our consultation, we discuss factors such as accent and practical lighting. If you want Bistro Lights to stand out in contrast to things like Uplights and Room Washes, then accent lighting is suitable. However, if you want practical lighting, we discuss hanging the lights from about 10 to 12 feet from the ground, mapping such as a (Z) or (X) pattern, and determining where and how power is being drawn to power the lights. On the day of your event, it is essential to have peace of mind, knowing that the lighting design is as you envisioned and that everything runs smoothly. In conclusion, it is not advisable to consider Bistro Lighting as a simple add-on since it is rarely so. It is crucial to consult a lighting expert as early as possible in the process. It's sadly common for us to see people end up with too few, underpowered, and poorly designed Bistro Lighting, which usually happens when clients do not plan correctly. If you are located in the DMV, DC, Maryland, or Virginia area, reach out to us today, and we will guide you in making the right decisions.
