Fairylight Installations
- Tom Philpott
- 16 hours ago
- 3 min read
Over the years, Cosmic Events has built strong relationships with many of the South East’s most sought after venues, providing lighting, decor and entertainment installations that complement each space beautifully. Our experience working at a wide range of venues allows us to design setups that suit the layout, character and atmosphere of each location, ensuring a seamless installation and a polished final look.
We are frequently on site at venues such as Rivervale Barn, Micklefield Hall, The Barn at Upcote, The Royal Berkshire Hotel, The Post Barn, Great House at Sonning, Cowdray Park, Millbridge Court, Easthampstead Park, Northbrook Park, Wasing Park, Clock Barn, Macdonald Hotel Windsor, Great Fosters, Mickleton Hills Farm and Lillibrooke Manor. Each venue offers its own unique character, from rustic barns and countryside estates to elegant hotels and historic manor houses.
Because we know these venues well, we understand their spaces, access points and layout considerations. This familiarity allows us to plan installations efficiently, adapt designs to suit each setting and work smoothly alongside venue teams. Whether it is fairy lighting, festoons, uplighting, dancefloors, DJs or decorative features, our setups are always tailored to enhance the venue rather than overpower it.
Alongside these locations, we also provide installations across Berkshire, Surrey, Hampshire, Wiltshire, London, Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Hertfordshire, Gloucestershire and surrounding areas, working with both established venues and private locations to create memorable weddings, parties and special events.
The Power of Fairylight Installations
Fairylights are more than just small bulbs strung together; they are a versatile design element that can completely change the feel of a space. Their soft glow adds warmth and intimacy, making large venues feel cosy and inviting.
Highlight architectural features: Wrapping fairylights around columns, beams, or staircases draws attention to the venue’s unique structure.
Create focal points: Use clusters of fairylights to frame stages, dance floors, or dining areas.
Add depth and texture: Layering fairylights behind sheer fabrics or drapes creates a dreamy, glowing backdrop.
For example, at a recent garden wedding, we installed warm white fairylights along the perimeter trees and intertwined them with hanging lanterns. This setup not only illuminated the space but also created a romantic canopy effect that guests loved.
Draping Techniques That Elevate Any Venue
Draping is a classic way to soften a space and add elegance. When combined with lighting, it becomes a powerful tool to transform the atmosphere.
Ceiling draping: Hanging fabric from the ceiling in gentle waves or gathered swags adds height and drama.
Wall draping: Covering plain walls with fabric can hide unsightly areas and create a clean, polished look.
Our team often pairs white or ivory drapes with warm fairylights to create a glowing, ethereal effect. In a recent event hall, we used flowing drapes to frame the entrance and ceiling, then layered festoons and lanterns to add charm and character.
Using Festoons and Lanterns for Added Charm
Festoons and lanterns bring a rustic yet elegant feel to any event. They work well both indoors and outdoors and complement fairylights and draping beautifully.
Festoons: These larger bulbs strung on cables provide a vintage look and excellent ambient lighting. They are perfect for outdoor patios or large indoor spaces.
Lanterns: Available in various shapes and sizes, lanterns add texture and interest. Hanging lanterns create a floating light effect, while tabletop lanterns add warmth to dining areas.
At a recent outdoor festival, we combined festoons overhead with clusters of lanterns hanging at different heights. This layered lighting created a cosy, inviting atmosphere that encouraged guests to linger and enjoy the space.
Planning Your Fairylight and Draping Installation
Successful installations require careful planning and attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your event lighting and décor shine:
Assess the venue: Understand the layout, ceiling height, and existing features to plan the best placement.
Balance lighting levels: Combine ambient, task, and accent lighting to avoid harsh shadows or overly bright spots.
Coordinate with the event theme: Match draping colours and lighting styles to the overall décor for a cohesive look.
Our team works closely with clients to customise each installation, ensuring the lighting and draping enhance the event’s mood and style.
Transforming a venue with fairylight installations and draping is about more than decoration. It’s about creating an experience that feels personal, inviting, and memorable. Whether you want a soft romantic glow or a lively festive vibe, the right lighting and fabric choices can make all the difference.
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