Have you ever been to a wedding and seen the initials of the newlyweds projected on the dance floor like this? {not the greatest pic, but you get the idea}
Well, it's called a wedding gobo... For those who are wandering about gobos, tune in, for the what, why, where, and how of the monogrammed wedding gobos.
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WHAT - A gobo refers to a small disc about the size of a silver dollar. The gobo has a design on it, and when a high power lamp is shown through it, the design is projected. The word gobo is used interchangeably to describe the small disc with the pattern, the pattern itself, and the actual projection you see. Gobos can be simple or intricate. They can also include colors. Depending on the pattern needed and the lamp used, they can be made out of several material… typically glass, metal, or plastic.
WHY - Gobos have many uses, but the ultimate goal is always (what I call) eye candy. At a concert, gobos add depth and texture. A gobo projected on the outside of a building can be an eye catching advertisement. For your wedding… a gobo is a distinctive way to tie in your unique monogram while providing a visual attraction for your guests. If done properly, a custom gobo is a relatively inexpensive way to spruce up a room or compliment an elegant atmosphere
WHERE - Where does the gobo fit into the wedding day? A gobo can be projected in any number of places and contexts. The most common location to see a gobo is on the dance floor during the reception. However, don’t rule out the possibility of a large wall or the ceiling. Also, there’s no rule that says a gobo doesn’t or won’t look equally stunning shown somewhere around the ceremony location or projected behind the bar during your cocktail hour. You are only limited by the business you choose to handle the gobo projection so I suggest you consider where you want to use the gobo before you select a company to help you.
HOW - How do you get this done? Many DJ’s offer this type of lighting effect. They will likely have a procedure to recommend. If your band or DJ does not have this lighting available, there are lighting specialty companies that will be able to handle it. Contacting a wedding planner is a good way to find a lighting specialist in your area.
You
DIY brides will love this. If your vendor is willing to let you get the
gobo yourself, you can very easily have a
gobo made through a number of websites, which could possibly save you some money. I’
ve had much success with
Gobo Source. They have recently updated their site to include many new templates that can make the ordering process much easier. It is very important that you know the type of light fixture that will be used to project the
gobo and or the exact size of
gobo needed before you order. Not all
gobos are universal. If you’re not careful, you could end up with a fancy silver dollar sized disc that is completely useless.
Lighting of any kind can add a unique element of visual stimulation to your wedding decor. The monogram gobo is an inexpensive way to serve some eye candy to your guests in a tasteful way.
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Do you plan on using a gobo on your big day and if so will you dyi your design?
