Lighting Design Tips for Corporate Events and Galas

We’re diving into AV design ideas for next year’s events and pulled together some lighting tips to help anyone planning a corporate event or gala.

From the main stage to hallways and cocktail spaces, these practical ideas will help brighten up your event and create a polished, engaging atmosphere.

Extend Your Event Into the Hallways

Why does hallway lighting matter for events?

Hallway lighting extends the event experience beyond the main room and creates a welcoming environment as attendees move through the venue.

Accent lighting and hallway gobos are easy ways to add branding and ambiance. This makes your event feel cohesive and intentional from the moment attendees walk in.

Breakout Rooms Matter

How can you make breakout rooms look better with lighting?

Attendees spend a lot of time in breakout rooms, so don’t overlook these spaces!

Start with a SIMPLE front wash for SPEAKER visibility. add uplights in your brand colors to make the space feel less generic, break up the neutral hotel tones, and give attendees a cohesive visual experience connected with your event theme.

Cocktail Hours and GATHERING Areas 

What are creative lighting ideas for cocktail hours?

Glowballs and under-table uplights are a fun way to add depth, COLOR, and a little sense of immersion to your event without being overwhelming.

Place them in areas where attendees gather such as lounges or cocktail spaces and they instantly create visual interest. They are simple to set up and help make those spaces feel intentional.

Branded Gobos 

How do branded gobos work for corporate events?

Custom gobos are affordable and effective. They project logos or patterns onto walls, floors, or ceilings, adding branding and visual interest without major scenic costs.

Use them for sponsor recognition or scenic elements if you’re skipping a scenic build. They’re a great way to reinforce your theme. Just make sure you order well ahead of your event date because they take time to create and ship!

Don’t Cut the Front Wash

Why is front wash lighting important for speakers?

A FRONT wash ensures your stage talent doesn’t disappear into the background. It ensures presenters are clearly visible on stage and on camera, which is critical for both in-person and virtual audiences.

Even if your budget is tight, keep the front wash. Especially in small rooms, even a simple wash is essential for your speaking talent to be seen and stand out.

Let’s Talk About Haze

Should you use haze at corporate events?

Yes, USE HAZE if your venue allows it.

We always recommend haze. Haze enhances the look of your lighting design and makes photos and videos more dynamic. It makes your lighting beams visible and adds drama to your event media. Yes, some venues charge extra or require a firewatch, but if you want your lighting to pop, haze is worth it.

Corporate Stage Lighting

What do we recommend for corporate stage lighting?

Your stage lighting can be as simple as a basic wash or as dynamic as a concert-style design. The right approach depends on your message and event goals.

Work with your event design team to explore options that highlight your presenters and create energy in the room. If your budget allows, include at least a few moving head fixtures. They add excitement during walk-ins, transitions, and key program moments, making the experience feel polished and engaging.

Gala Stage Lighting

How can lighting enhance a gala?

Galas call for a warm, inviting ambiance that makes attendees feel connected and part of the same mission. We design gala lighting with a full-room approach, using soft tones and layered effects to create a sense of togetherness.

We recommend adding gobo patterns around the room to tie the lighting design to your décor. This creates a cohesive look and reinforces the theme throughout the space.

What is a good starting point for event lighting design?

Our baseline recommended lighting package includes:

• Front wash (fly it if possible, check out the above photos of ground supported vs flown front wash)

• Uplights behind the stage

• Uplights around the room

From there, we add moving lights for action, podium focus, gobos, and energy during walk-ins and talent intros.

Need event lighting design Inspiration?

Start with your AV partner’s gallery or search for event photos that match your theme. Visual examples help guide design conversations. A lot of design ideas can also be found on pinterest! Check out our event boards. Find a few event photos you love and share them with your AV partner. Your lighting designer will have ideas to match your budget and goals.

Are you planning an event?

let’s talk through your event lighting design, Book a time to chat with us!