ILLUME Lighting + Event Design

05/20/2025

12/25/2024

🎉✨ Happy Holidays from all of us at ILLUME Lighting + Event Design! ✨🎉

There's something truly magical about this time of year as we come together to spend time with our friends and family and reflect on the past year.🌟

As we take in the beauty of the season, we would love to hear how you celebrate with your loved ones. Whether it’s a grand gathering, an intimate dinner, or a cozy day at home watching movies and sipping hot cocoa, every moment counts!

Share your favorite holiday traditions in the comments below!🎄

11/28/2024

𝐇𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐲 𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐤𝐬𝐠𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠, 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐲𝐨𝐧𝐞! 🍂🍗 It's that special time of year when we gather around the table, wear stretchy pants like it’s an Olympic sport, and eat our weight in turkey! Who knew being a professional pie taster could be part of the family job description? 😂 Remember, calories don’t count on Thanksgiving... or so they say! So load up that plate and let the feast begin. May your day be filled with gratitude, laughter, and awkward family conversations that will keep you laughing till next year. Cheers to food comas and post-dinner naps! 🦃😴

11/17/2024

👉Wedding Signage. It can often be an afterthought or one of the last items on your to-do list. When it comes to wedding decor, signage plays a big role in guiding guests, setting the mood, and adding those perfect personal touches. But overlooking the importance of professional signage can lead to some common and avoidable mistakes that impact the overall look and feel of your day.

Why you should trust a pro to take care of your wedding signage:

🛑Design Consistency – A professional ensures that all signs, from welcome boards to seating charts, match your theme and color palette seamlessly. DIY signs can often lack the polished, cohesive look that ties your wedding decor together beautifully.

🛑Readability & Layout – Clarity is key. Professionals know how to use fonts, spacing, and layout to make sure signs are legible from the right distances.

🛑Material Choice & Durability – Weather, lighting, and venue conditions can affect signage. A pro will recommend and often have access to the best materials—think waterproof options for outdoor weddings or sturdy boards that won’t bend or fade.

🛑Don’t forget! – Event pros will make sure that you have all the signs you need. Between the welcome, ceremony, reception, and after party, remembering all the required signs can often slip through the cracks.

Investing in professionally crafted signage can save you time and create the perfect cohesive look for your big day. Trust a professional for signage that’s as flawless as your celebration!

📸 Illumination Studios: Photo and Video
📸 Once Like A Spark Photo + Video
📸 MichaelWill Photography
📸 Katie Mihalak Photography

11/13/2024

𝐌𝐞𝐞𝐭 𝐂𝐡𝐫𝐢𝐬 👨
Founder | Event Whisperer | Celebration Concierge

Chris brings over 20 years of experience in event lighting and design, having traveled the globe working with major cruise lines and production companies. In 2013, he established ILLUME Lighting + Event Design, where he now channels his expertise into creating unforgettable events across Southwestern PA, West Virginia, Ohio and beyond.

Chris is a lifelong learner who continually pushes the boundaries of innovation, providing ILLUME’s clients with unique events and experiences. He works 1:1 with every client throughout the planning process ensuring a personalized experience tailored to their specific needs and vision.

When he’s not designing, he loves spending time with family, watching movies, building LEGO sets, or experiencing the magic of Walt Disney World.

✅Must Haves On Event Day:
Beverages💧
A Lot of Snacks 🍿
A Great Playlist 🎵

📸 Samantha Fitzhenry Photography, LLC

11/11/2024

Honoring Our Heros: Happy Veteran’s Day 🇺🇸

Honoring all the brave men and women who have served our county on this Veteran’s Day. Your sacrifices and dedication inspire us every day. Thank you for your service and for protecting our freedom! 🇺🇸

11/06/2024

Tables at weddings do more than just hold plates and glasses; they set the scene, enhance your theme, and make a lasting impression on guests. Here’s a checklist of things to consider when designing tablescapes that are beautiful, cohesive, and unforgettable:

1. Know your theme and color palette – Start with your overall theme and color scheme.

Soft neutrals, bold contrasts, or natural greens—your tablescape should mirror the vibe of your event seamlessly.

2. Centerpieces – Flowers, candles, or unique decorative items? Choose a centerpiece that complements the space without overwhelming it. Make it interesting by mixing styles and heights of centerpieces on different tables 3. Texture & Layers – Linens, table runners, napkins, chargers and more. Each item creates an opportunity to mix and match layers that truly adhere to your theme. (Think burlap table runners or wooden chargers for a rustic feel)

4. Height Variation – Pieces on the same table that vary in height can create a dynamic visual impact. Use a mix of candle holders, bud vases, or greenery arrangements to keep the table lively and fun.

5. Lighting – Candles, string lights, or lanterns? Lighting adds warmth and can transform the space once the sun sets. Choose lighting that suits the time of day and desired ambiance.

6. Guest Comfort – Ensure there’s enough space for plates, utensils, and glasses so guests aren’t cramped when dining.

7. Personal Touches – It’s your day! Items like custom place cards or little favors, can make guests feel extra special.

There are so many possibilities when it comes to creating a great tablescape. Gather your ideas, have fun, and get ready to impress your guests!

📸 Adam Michaels Photography
📸 Katrina Marie Photography
📸 BridgePerspective
📸 ILLUME Lighting + Event Design
📸 Alex Morra Photography
📸 Samantha Fitzhenry Photography, LLC

10/22/2024

Such a great space - if you have not checked out The Chariot Events, you should!

10/18/2024

05/28/2024

✨Transform any space, whether indoor or outdoor, into a captivating and magical event with the simple yet stunning addition of ceiling draping. ✨Let the elegance and softness of this decor elevate your special day to new heights. 🌿✨

Ceiling Draping: ILLUME Lighting + Event Design
Venue: Succop Nature Park

05/22/2024

✨Close your eyes and imagine walking down the aisle with a breathtaking backdrop of soft, sheer fabric and the subtle glow of twinkling string lights. 🌿 Picture a stunning faux floral arch with delicate hints of white and blue, creating a magical and enchanting atmosphere for your special day. Whether you're planning an intimate ceremony or a grand celebration, this elegant and warm setting sets the perfect stage for your love story. 🤍 So, let your imagination take flight, and let us help you turn your dream wedding into a reality..💐

📍Bella Sera
Backdrop/Faux Floral Arch: ILLUME Lighting + Event Design