 Party
Ideas
The Art of Lighting
To some Hollywood stars, lighting
is so important that they have special clauses in their contracts
demanding that they be lit to exacting specifications. In more humble
circumstances, such as dinner parties, the right lighting can cast a
calming and flattering glow on your home and guests. Here are some
bright ideas to help you present your party in the best possible light.
Candlelight
The soft glow of candlelight
transforms even the simplest meal into an occasion. If you're feeling
extravagant, light the entire party space with candles. Beeswax and
scented candles add a nice touch, but be careful not to interfere
with the aromas of the food. Inexpensive paraffin utility candles
work beautifully too - and produce the exact same light as their
refined siblings. (Note: Avoid setting inexpensive drip-prone candles
on unforgiving surfaces.)
Bulbage
Try replacing high-wattage bulbs
with softer ones for the evening, or replace clear bulbs with colored
ones. For some inventive illumination, hang up Christmas lights,
novelty chili pepper lights, or paper lanterns to accent the room.
Track Lighting
Track lights and spotlights are
great party enhancers when used correctly. Unfortunately, their
virtues are sometimes wasted because they're unfocused (i.e., not
directed at anything in particular), misfocused (aimed where the
sculpture used to sit before you rearranged the furniture), or
improperly loaded using washes (i.e. bulbs that cast a wide beam of
light) instead of pin spots (bulbs that cast a very narrow and highly
intense beam).
Create instant drama by changing
a wash to a pin spot and accurately focusing it on a vase of flowers,
bowl of fruit, or penny candy. You'll be amazed at how the
illuminated object comes to life.
Dimmers
Converting a conventional on-off
light switch to a dimmer control is about the simplest electrical
task imaginable - even for someone like myself who has never even
contemplated changing the oil in my car. The dimmer costs about $5,
and the only tool required is a screwdriver. (Remove the fuse first
or you'll be in for a shock). Dining room lights are a prime
candidate for this operation.
To avoid being a victim of
Murphy's Law, don't attempt this less than half an hour before the
guests arrive. Note: Some fancy track-light systems run through a
"low voltage" transformer. These systems require special
dimmers that must be installed by an electrician.
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