Pinspots & String Lights: Small Fixtures, Big Atmosphere in Event Spaces
Ever walked into a room and felt the vibe change instantly—before the music even started?
That feeling? It usually comes from lighting. Not the big, splashy kind. We’re talking about the small stuff: pinspots on florals, string lights overhead, tiny LEDs tucked into the corners of a room. These modest fixtures might not make the gear list headlines, but they make the magic happen. And in the world of event production, atmosphere is everything.
Why Small Lights Make a Big Impact
In production, we love the big guns—intelligent movers, strobes, pixel strips—but the truth is, some of the most memorable lighting moments come from the simplest tools.
Pinspots and string lights are like punctuation marks: they bring emphasis, rhythm, and clarity to a space. They're not doing the heavy lifting, but without them, the sentence (or the scene) doesn’t quite work.
These lights:
- Define space without overwhelming it
- Highlight key elements (like centerpieces, signage, or decor)
- Bring warmth and intimacy to larger rooms
- Elevate the guest experience—subtly, but powerfully
Whether you’re producing a wedding, gala, or brand activation, these little fixtures help you tell a story.
The Power of the Pinspot
Pinspots are essentially narrow-beam accent lights that do one thing really well: isolate and highlight. They're commonly used to draw attention to:
- Centerpieces or floral arrangements
- Cakes and display tables
- Branded elements like step-and-repeats or sponsor logos
The trick with pinspots is precision. A poorly aimed pinspot can flatten a floral piece or cast strange shadows. But when it's right? It’s like a spotlight on a moment.
At Eagle AV Rental, we often deploy wireless LED pinspots for fast, flexible installs. Battery-powered units eliminate cable clutter, and magnetic mounting lets us dial in exact angles without overcomplicating rigging—especially useful in older venues or temporary structures.
“Don’t overdo it. One or two well-placed pinspots do more than a dozen pointed in the general direction of something ‘important.’”
The Glow of String Lights
String lights—also called café lights or bistro lights—are all about vibe. They don’t illuminate, they illuminate. There’s a difference.
Use them to:
- Create canopy effects over outdoor spaces
- Define pathways or perimeters of a venue
- Soften a sterile ceiling with warmth and texture
They add a sense of intimacy and nostalgia. But here’s the thing: you need to install them with care. Sag, spacing, and anchoring all matter.
We’ve seen clients fall in love with the idea of string lights, only to realize mid-setup that the rigging wasn’t considered in advance. Over the years at Eagle Production Company, we’ve developed modular solutions for indoor and outdoor spaces—poles with base plates, truss spans, even lightweight cabling systems—to keep it elegant and safe.
Pro Tip: Always dim string lights. Even LEDs benefit from a little warmth adjustment, and a low glow is far more atmospheric than a blazing 100% brightness.
Best Practices When Using Small Fixtures
Just because these lights are “simple” doesn’t mean they should be an afterthought. Here's how to maximize their impact:
- Plan for them early: Include them in your lighting plot, not just your decor notes.
- Test your color temps: Match pinspots and strings with your main room lighting—warm white is often best.
- Use dimmers: Control is everything. Give yourself the ability to adjust intensity as the event evolves.
- Consider wireless options: Less cable = faster setup, cleaner presentation.
It’s all about intentionality. These aren’t filler elements—they’re finishing touches.
Wrapping It Up
In the fast-moving world of AV production, we sometimes chase the biggest fixtures, the newest toys, the flashiest rigs. But never underestimate the emotional pull of a few carefully chosen small lights. Pinspots and string lights create mood. They add warmth. They turn spaces into experiences.
If you’re designing an event lighting plan—whether it’s for a client or your own brand—give these small tools their due. They may not make the cover of the spec sheet, but they’ll make the biggest difference in the room.
Need guidance on how to integrate pinspots or string lights into your next event? Eagle AV Rental is here to help. We’ve got the fixtures, the mounting solutions, and the experience to make your vision real—whether it’s a cozy backyard wedding or a full-scale ballroom install.
Reach out any time. We’re happy to light the way.
