Dramatic Lighting

Dramatic Lighting

"Dramatic lighting" is also very big right now, and very effective. Instead of pin-spotting every table, "it's all about creating drama," explains Lexye Aversa, of Professional Touch International, in Palm Beach. "You want something that takes your breath away."

Think sleek and modern, says Aversa. "The Art-deco, South Beach look is hot with, perhaps, tables lit from the bottom and a glass bar," she says. The idea is to create a club feel and a minimalist look, she explains.

Illuminated bars are definitely in, says Laura Wootton, sales manager of Glen Cove-based Elegant Affairs, in Glen Cove, New York. Lighted bars also are part of the sleek look that's very trendy right now. Ironically, she notes, requests for simple yet dramatic effects can often mean greater expense. "Less really can be more in terms of cost," says Wootton.

At the other end of the dramatic lighting spectrum are candles. Candlelight is also very popular, and "pillar candles are especially big," notes Aversa. Candles of all different heights, glittery candle holders and candelabras are especially trendy in event design, she says. And candles can provide a lot of drama for relatively little cost.

Popular flowers

Roses are always in, as are orchids, says Aversa. Roses of almost every color are appearing at posh parties. Among other popular requests now are hydrangeas, especially in periwinkle and magenta. Cala lilies are also big.