Planning your wedding is all about creating an unforgettable atmosphere, and the right lighting is your secret weapon. The strategic use of uplights for wedding receptions can completely transform a space, turning a simple hall into a breathtaking, romantic wonderland. It’s the kind of detail that infuses every photo with a warm, professional glow and makes your venue feel uniquely yours.
But with so many options out there, where do you even start? The search can feel overwhelming, pitting professional-grade purchases against convenient rental services. Do you buy your own gear for future events, find a budget-friendly DIY rental, or just explore the best brands before talking to your DJ? This guide cuts through the noise. We've compiled a definitive list of the 7 best places to source your wedding uplighting, ensuring your venue shines with personalized style. We’ll dive into everything from massive online marketplaces like Amazon to specialized DJ suppliers and dedicated rental companies.
For those wanting a broader perspective on how lighting enhances special occasions, exploring various event lighting options can provide even more creative inspiration for your celebration. In this article, each recommendation comes with screenshots and direct links, helping you make an informed choice that fits your vision and budget perfectly. Let's illuminate the possibilities and find the perfect lighting to make your special day truly unforgettable.
1. Amazon
Let’s kick things off with the undisputed king of online retail: Amazon. When it comes to sourcing uplights for a wedding, this platform is often the first and last stop for many DIY-savvy couples and event planners. Its massive, sprawling marketplace is a treasure trove of lighting options, offering unparalleled variety and convenience that’s hard to beat.
What makes Amazon a go-to? It’s all about a killer combination of selection, speed, and user-generated feedback. You can find everything from affordable, entry-level LED par cans perfect for a one-time event to professional-grade, battery-powered fixtures that a budding DJ or event coordinator could build a business around. The Prime shipping is a lifesaver for last-minute needs, ensuring your lights arrive well before the big day.
Why It's a Top Choice
The real magic of shopping for uplights on Amazon lies in the reviews and Q&A sections. Wondering if that 8-pack of lights is bright enough for a ballroom with high ceilings? Someone has likely already tried it and left a detailed review, complete with photos. This crowdsourced intel is invaluable for cutting through confusing technical specs and understanding how a product performs in the real world.
Pro Tip: Don't just look at the star rating. Dive into the 3-star and 4-star reviews. They often provide the most balanced feedback, highlighting both the strengths and minor flaws you should be aware of before buying.
Navigating the Marketplace
To get the most out of Amazon, use the filters to your advantage. You can narrow your search by features like "battery-powered," "DMX compatible," or "remote controlled." Pay close attention to product bundles, as many sellers offer 4, 8, or 12-packs that significantly lower the cost per light.
However, be a savvy shopper. Quality can vary wildly between sellers. Stick to products with a high volume of positive reviews and look for listings with clear, detailed specifications. Check the return policy, just in case the color mixing isn't as smooth as you'd hoped or the battery life doesn't meet your needs.
| Feature | How Amazon Delivers |
|---|---|
| Selection | Unmatched variety, from single units to bulk packs of battery-powered and plug-in models. |
| Pricing | Highly competitive, with options spanning from budget-friendly to professional-grade gear. |
| Convenience | Fast Prime shipping, easy returns, and a familiar shopping experience. |
| Reviews | Extensive user photos and detailed feedback help you gauge brightness, color, and reliability. |
Website: https://www.amazon.com
2. eBay
Next up is the original online auction house, eBay. While often seen as a place for collectibles and second-hand goods, it’s a surprisingly robust marketplace for sourcing uplights for a wedding, especially for those with a keen eye for a deal. It's a fantastic resource for both DIY couples on a budget and aspiring event pros looking to build their professional lighting inventory without breaking the bank.
What sets eBay apart is its unique blend of new, open-box, and used equipment. You can find authorized dealers for major brands like Chauvet DJ and ADJ running official storefronts, often listing brand-new multi-packs and complete cases. At the same time, you can snag incredible deals on lightly used or even discontinued professional fixtures that still have plenty of life left in them.
Why It's a Top Choice
The real advantage of using eBay is the potential for significant cost savings and finding hidden gems. The "Best Offer" feature on many listings allows you to negotiate directly with sellers, potentially securing a price lower than the listed one. This is particularly useful when buying in bulk. Furthermore, the platform's buyer protection policies provide a safety net, ensuring you get what you paid for.
Pro Tip: Look for sellers who are DJs or small event companies upgrading their gear. They often sell well-maintained lights in bundles with flight cases, which is a huge value-add and makes transport and storage much easier.
Navigating the Marketplace
To master eBay, you need to be a bit of a detective. Carefully read the item descriptions, paying close attention to terms like "used," "open-box," or "refurbished." Scrutinize seller feedback ratings; a long history of positive reviews is a great sign. Don’t hesitate to use the "Contact seller" feature to ask specific questions about the lights' condition, age, or battery health if they are wireless.
Be aware that return policies and shipping times are set by individual sellers, so they can vary greatly. Always check these details before committing to a purchase. With a little patience and smart searching, you can build a professional-quality wedding uplighting kit for a fraction of the retail cost.
| Feature | How eBay Delivers |
|---|---|
| Selection | Excellent mix of new, used, and open-box pro brands like Chauvet and ADJ. |
| Pricing | Highly competitive, with "Best Offer" negotiations and auction-style listings for big savings. |
| Convenience | Buyer protection programs and financing options like PayPal Credit offer flexibility. |
| Reviews | Seller feedback ratings are crucial for vetting reliability and product quality. |
Website: https://www.ebay.com
3. B&H Photo Video
Next up is a destination trusted by creative professionals for decades: B&H Photo Video. While known primarily for cameras and studio gear, B&H has a robust and expertly curated selection of event lighting, making it a fantastic resource for sourcing high-quality uplights for a wedding. This isn't a sprawling, anything-goes marketplace; it’s a curated collection of reliable gear from reputable brands.
What sets B&H apart is its focus on quality, expertise, and customer support. You’re buying from an authorized U.S. dealer, which means you get proper warranties and knowledgeable help. They offer everything from individual fixtures to complete, road-ready uplighting kits that include multiple lights and a charging case, perfect for event planners or venues looking to invest in their own inventory. Plus, many items come with free expedited shipping, a huge perk for time-sensitive event planning.
Why It's a Top Choice
Shopping at B&H feels less like a gamble and more like a consultation. The real value comes from the peace of mind and access to expert advice. Their live chat and phone support are staffed by specialists who can actually explain the difference between two similar-looking fixtures or recommend a kit based on your venue size. This level of service is a game-changer when you're trying to make a significant investment in lighting equipment that needs to perform flawlessly on the big day.
Pro Tip: Use the "Live Chat" feature on the B&H website. Ask specific questions like, "I have a 3,000 sq ft ballroom with 15-foot ceilings. Which of your battery-powered uplight kits would you recommend for full-room coverage?" You'll get a tailored recommendation from someone who knows the gear inside and out.
Navigating the Marketplace
To find the best uplighting options, head to the "Lighting & Studio" category and navigate to "DJ & Stage Lighting." B&H excels in offering professional bundles from brands like Chauvet DJ and American DJ. Look for kits that include a charging flight case, which not only protects your investment but also makes charging a dozen lights incredibly simple.
While prices are competitive for professional gear, they may not always be the absolute lowest compared to third-party sellers on other platforms. However, the value is in the reliable service, authentic products, and clear warranty handling. B&H also offers financing options like their Payboo card, which can help ease the upfront cost of a larger lighting package.
| Feature | How B&H Photo Video Delivers |
|---|---|
| Selection | Curated catalog of professional-grade brands, with a strong focus on kits and bundles. |
| Pricing | Solid, competitive pricing for authorized gear. Financing options are available. |
| Convenience | Fast, often free, expedited shipping and a highly reliable shopping experience. |
| Expertise | Access to lighting specialists via chat and phone for professional, tailored advice. |
Website: https://www.bhphotovideo.com
4. I DJ NOW (IDJNOW)
For those who want to source their lighting from dedicated industry pros, I DJ NOW (IDJNOW) is a fantastic destination. This specialized retailer focuses specifically on DJ gear, stage production, and event lighting, making it an expert resource for finding high-quality uplights for a wedding. It’s the perfect middle ground between a massive marketplace and a local rental shop, offering both sales and a national rental program.
What sets IDJNOW apart is its curated, event-focused approach. Instead of sifting through thousands of generic listings, you’ll find pre-bundled wedding uplight packages designed to make your life easier. These kits often include the lights, charging cases, and remote controls, providing an all-in-one solution that’s ready for showtime. Their unique blend of sales and rentals offers incredible flexibility for any budget or need.
Why It's a Top Choice
The real advantage of IDJNOW is the ability to mix and match purchases with rentals. You can buy a core set of lights for future events and supplement them with rentals for a particularly large venue, all from one trusted source. Their rental options, often with 2-day rates, are perfect for couples who want professional-grade lighting without the long-term investment. This flexibility is a game-changer for event planners and DIY couples alike.
Pro Tip: Check out their "Lighting Packages" section. You can often find bundles that include not just uplights but also a wash light for the dance floor or a custom monogram gobo projector, streamlining your entire lighting plan.
Navigating the Marketplace
To get the most value from IDJNOW, start by deciding whether buying or renting makes more sense for your big day. The rental process is straightforward, but be sure to book in advance, especially during peak wedding season, as availability can be limited. When browsing products for purchase, look for their price protection policy and keep an eye out for frequent sales and promotions that can offer significant savings.
While the selection is more curated than on Amazon, it's focused on reliable, event-tested brands like Chauvet DJ and ADJ. The customer support team has deep product knowledge, so don't hesitate to call or use the live chat if you're unsure which fixture is right for your venue’s specific needs. Just be mindful that popular kits can sometimes go on backorder, so plan ahead.
| Feature | How I DJ NOW Delivers |
|---|---|
| Selection | Curated event-ready packages and professional-grade fixtures from trusted brands. |
| Pricing | Competitive sales prices with price protection, plus affordable short-term rental options. |
| Convenience | A one-stop shop for both buying and renting, with expert support and fast shipping. |
| Reviews | Specialized focus means staff can offer expert advice beyond user-generated feedback. |
Website: https://www.idjnow.com
5. CHAUVET DJ (official brand site)
For those ready to step up from entry-level options to professional-grade gear, going straight to the source is a brilliant move. The official CHAUVET DJ website is less of a direct marketplace and more of an educational hub and product showcase for some of the most reliable uplights for a wedding you can get. This is where DJs, event pros, and serious DIYers go to research the gold standard in event lighting.
What makes the CHAUVET DJ site essential? It provides the most accurate and in-depth information on its products, like the industry-favorite Freedom Par series. While you typically can't buy directly from the site, it empowers you with knowledge. You get detailed specifications, user manuals, and video tutorials, so when you do purchase from a retailer, you know exactly what you’re getting. Think of it as the ultimate pre-shopping research tool.
Why It's a Top Choice
The real value of the CHAUVET DJ website lies in its "Dealer Locator" and the assurance of quality. Buying professional lighting is an investment, and this tool connects you with authorized retailers, ensuring you receive a genuine product with a valid warranty. This is critical for avoiding counterfeits and securing support if anything goes wrong. You can dive deep into the specs of fixtures like the 100% wireless, battery-powered Freedom Par Q9, understanding its DMX capabilities, color mixing, and battery life before ever speaking to a salesperson.
Pro Tip: Use the website to compare different models within a series. The product pages often have "At a Glance" charts that make it easy to see the differences in brightness, features, and battery runtime between fixtures like the Freedom Par Hex-4 and the Tri-6.
Navigating the Marketplace
Since this isn't a traditional e-commerce site, your goal here is information gathering. Start in the "Products" section and filter by "Battery Powered" or "Wash Lights" to find their uplighting options. Once you’ve identified a model that fits your needs, use the "Where to Buy" feature to find an authorized dealer near you or online. This two-step process ensures you’re making an informed purchase from a reputable source, which is crucial when investing in premium equipment. While the pricing is higher than generic brands, the reliability and performance are what professionals count on every weekend.
| Feature | How CHAUVET DJ Delivers |
|---|---|
| Product Specs | Unrivaled detail on every fixture, including manuals, photometric data, and video tutorials. |
| Quality | The industry standard for reliable, professional-grade, battery-powered wireless uplights. |
| Dealer Network | The dealer locator ensures you buy authentic products with warranty support from trusted sellers. |
| Professionalism | Offers fixtures designed specifically for event pros, ensuring performance and durability. |
Website: https://www.chauvetdj.com
6. ADJ (American DJ) Lighting
Stepping into the professional leagues, we have the official brand site for ADJ (American DJ). This isn't a marketplace; it's a direct-from-the-source look into a manufacturer that’s a household name among mobile DJs, event production companies, and serious lighting enthusiasts. For couples or planners looking to invest in high-quality, reliable uplights for a wedding that will last for years of events, ADJ is a benchmark for quality.
What sets ADJ's website apart is its function as an educational and technical resource. While you typically purchase through their network of authorized dealers rather than directly from the site, it provides everything you need to make an informed decision. You can deep-dive into product lines like the popular Element series, which features battery-powered and wireless DMX models perfect for creating a clean, wire-free look. Their detailed spec sheets are invaluable for understanding beam angles, brightness (measured in LUX), and battery life.
Why It's a Top Choice
Shopping for professional-grade gear can be intimidating, but ADJ's site demystifies the process. You get access to official documentation, user manuals, and product videos that demonstrate exactly what the lights can do. This is crucial when you're matching specific lighting needs, such as finding fixtures with the right IP rating (like IP54 or IP65) for an outdoor tent or garden wedding where moisture could be a factor.
Pro Tip: Use the "Dealer Locator" feature on the ADJ website. You can often find local retailers who may have demo units you can see in person, giving you a much better feel for the light's color mixing and build quality before you buy.
Navigating the Marketplace
Think of the ADJ site as your research headquarters. Start by exploring their "LED Pars" or "Battery Powered" sections. Pay close attention to accessories like flight cases and charging road cases; these are designed to protect your investment and make transporting and charging multiple lights a breeze. Once you’ve identified the perfect model, use the dealer links to compare prices and availability from various retailers. For more inspiration on how these pro-grade lights transform a space, explore some great examples of wedding uplighting.
The primary drawback is that you can’t click “add to cart” and buy directly. This multi-step process requires a bit more effort, but the trade-off is a significantly higher-quality, more reliable product that’s built for the rigors of event after event.
| Feature | How ADJ Delivers |
|---|---|
| Selection | Professional-grade, event-focused uplights including battery-powered and outdoor-rated models. |
| Pricing | Varies by dealer; investment-level pricing for durable, high-performance equipment. |
| Convenience | Serves as a detailed research hub with links to an authorized dealer network for purchasing. |
| Reviews | Provides technical specs, manuals, and videos, empowering informed buying decisions. |
Website: https://www.adj.com
7. DIY Uplighting (rental, nationwide)
For couples who love the idea of designer lighting without the designer price tag or the commitment of buying gear, DIY Uplighting is a game-changer. This nationwide mail-order service is built around a brilliantly simple concept: rent professional-quality uplights for your wedding, have them shipped directly to you, and send them back when you're done. It strips away the complexity and makes beautiful event lighting accessible to everyone.
What makes DIY Uplighting so appealing is its laser focus on the user experience. The entire process is designed for people with zero lighting experience. The lights arrive a couple of days before your event, giving you plenty of time for a trial run. Setup is as simple as placing the light on the floor, pointing it up a wall, and selecting your color with a button press. There are no complicated DMX cables or programming headaches to worry about.
Why It's a Top Choice
The core value of DIY Uplighting is its ability to deliver maximum impact for a minimal investment of time and money. Instead of purchasing a dozen lights you might only use once, you can rent the exact number you need at a fraction of the cost. The free, two-way shipping is a massive logistical relief, eliminating the stress of coordinating pickups or drop-offs during a hectic wedding week. The company provides a pre-paid return label, so all you have to do is pack the lights back in the same box and drop them off.
Pro Tip: Use their online calculator to determine how many lights you'll need. It asks for your venue dimensions and desired spacing (e.g., 10 feet apart for a "wash" of color) to give you a reliable estimate, preventing you from over- or under-ordering.
Navigating the Rental Process
The website is straightforward and user-friendly. You simply select your event date, choose the number of lights you need, and decide if you want to upgrade to the brighter, fully wireless battery-powered models. The standard plug-in lights are incredibly popular, but the battery-powered option offers ultimate flexibility for venues with limited outlets or for outdoor spaces. If you're considering a more hands-on approach, you might explore various event lighting rental options to find equipment suitable for your wedding style.
One major consideration is availability. Because of the service's popularity, popular dates during peak wedding season can book up months in advance. It's wise to reserve your lights as soon as you have your venue confirmed. For more information, learn more about DIY Uplighting on 1021events.com.
| Feature | How DIY Uplighting Delivers |
|---|---|
| Selection | Focused on easy-to-use plug-in or wireless battery-powered uplights perfect for weddings. |
| Pricing | Extremely budget-friendly flat-rate rental pricing, making professional lighting affordable. |
| Convenience | Free nationwide shipping both ways with lights arriving 2 days before your event. |
| Ease of Use | Designed for absolute beginners; setup takes minutes with no technical experience required. |
Website: https://www.diyuplighting.com
Uplighting Options Comparison: Top 7 Providers
| Provider | Implementation Complexity 🔄 | Resource Requirements ⚡ | Expected Outcomes 📊 | Ideal Use Cases 💡 | Key Advantages ⭐ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon | Low – easy online ordering | Wide budget range, no setup | Reliable brightness, fast delivery | Buyers wanting variety and quick purchase | Large selection, competitive pricing, reviews |
| eBay | Medium – varied sellers, negotiation | Budget-friendly, may require vetting | Cost savings on new/used gear | Cost-conscious buyers & inventory building | Best prices, used options, flexible payment |
| B&H Photo Video | Medium – curated expert support | Professional-grade, financing | High reliability with expert advice | Professionals needing warranties and support | Authorized dealer, expert help, fast shipping |
| I DJ NOW (IDJNOW) | Medium – renting and buying mix | Rental deposits and rentals | Turnkey event packages, flexible planning | Event rentals and mixed purchase solutions | Rental + purchase flexibility, event focus |
| CHAUVET DJ (official site) | Low – info resource; buy via dealer | Limited direct purchasing | Access to latest pro wireless uplights | Buyers needing official info and warranty | Detailed specs, dealer locator, professional focus |
| ADJ Lighting (official site) | Low – direct info, dealer sales | Outdoor/indoor options, manuals | Durable, weatherproof event uplights | Buyers needing outdoor-capable uplights | Clear tech specs, outdoor capability, ecosystem |
| DIY Uplighting (rental) | Low – simple rental process | Rental gear, no ownership | Budget-friendly decor lighting | One-time wedding events, novice users | Easy setup, free shipping, beginner friendly |
Ready to Light Up Your Night? Consider a Professional Touch
Well, there you have it, a complete roadmap to sourcing the perfect uplights for your wedding. We've journeyed through the vast, consumer-friendly aisles of Amazon and eBay, explored the pro-grade catalogues of B&H Photo Video and I DJ NOW, and even peeked behind the curtain at manufacturer sites like CHAUVET DJ and ADJ Lighting. For those seeking a convenient, all-in-one solution, we highlighted the brilliant simplicity of rental services like DIY Uplighting.
You're now armed with the knowledge to make an informed decision, whether that means buying a set of lights for future parties, renting a curated package for a one-time event, or investing in professional equipment. The key is to match the tool to your unique wedding vision, budget, and technical comfort level.
Recapping Your Luminous Options
Let's quickly recap the core takeaways to help you zero in on the best path forward:
- For Convenience & Variety: Marketplaces like Amazon and eBay offer an unparalleled selection, catering to every budget. They are ideal if you want to own your lights but require careful vetting of sellers and product reviews.
- For Professional Quality: Specialized retailers like B&H Photo Video and I DJ NOW are the go-to sources for reliable, high-performance gear. This is the best route for those who prioritize quality and might use the equipment for future events or even a side hustle.
- For Simplicity & Support: A rental service like DIY Uplighting is a game-changer for couples who want professional results without the long-term commitment or technical stress. They provide the gear, instructions, and support, you provide the vision.
- For Brand Loyalists & In-Depth Specs: Visiting official brand sites like CHAUVET DJ and ADJ Lighting is perfect for researching specific models and understanding the technology behind the magic before purchasing from a retailer.
Beyond the Bulb: The Art of Lighting Design
Sourcing your uplights for your wedding is a huge and exciting step, but it's just the first part of the equation. The real magic happens in the application. How you use the lights, where you place them, and the colors you choose will ultimately define your venue's atmosphere.
Think back to the concepts we explored: creating architectural drama by highlighting columns, washing a tent ceiling in a soft blush, or using dynamic color changes to transition from a romantic dinner to a high-energy dance party. These results don't happen by accident; they require a thoughtful design plan.
Key Insight: The difference between simply placing lights against a wall and creating a breathtaking, immersive environment lies in cohesive design and flawless execution. It's about telling your love story through light.
If the idea of mapping out power sources, programming color scenes, and troubleshooting technical glitches on your big day sounds more stressful than celebratory, you're not alone. Many couples find that while the DIY approach seems cost-effective initially, the peace of mind that comes with professional expertise is priceless.
The Professional Advantage: Stress-Free Radiance
Hiring a professional event production company elevates your wedding lighting from a simple decoration to a core experiential element. A dedicated team handles everything from the initial design consultation to the final breakdown, ensuring every beam of light is perfectly placed and impeccably managed. They bring a level of artistry and technical know-how that can transform a space in ways you might not have imagined.
Instead of spending your wedding morning untangling cables, you can focus on what truly matters: savoring every moment with your partner, family, and friends. A professional touch ensures your venue looks stunning not just in person but also in your wedding photos and videos, preserving those beautifully illuminated memories for a lifetime. Your wedding day should be about celebration, not coordination. Let an expert handle the technical details so you can simply bask in the glow.
Ready to see how professional lighting design can transform your venue from beautiful to breathtaking? At 1021 Events, we specialize in creating unforgettable atmospheres with custom uplights for wedding celebrations, elegant monograms, and dynamic special effects. Let our team handle all the technical work, so you can focus on making memories. Visit 1021 Events to get a custom quote and illuminate your dream day!
