Barn Wedding Lighting Design: A Custom Glass Globe and String Light Installation in Maine
The Dairy Barn at Cunningham Farm is a masterclass in historic Maine architecture, characterized by its intimate scale and rugged, weathered beams. For Jackie and Daniel’s June wedding, our role was to honor the character of this specific space while elevating it to create a sophisticated atmosphere for dinner.
Defining the Canopy
When working within the Dairy Barn, the lighting must serve two purposes: highlighting the historic timber and providing a warm, functional glow. We installed a dense canopy of string lights that followed the natural pitch of the roofline. By precisely tensioning these strands, we created a “starlight” effect that illuminated the upper reaches of the barn without overwhelming the texture of the aged wood.
The Vertical Focal Point
In a historic structure, it is essential to create a visual anchor that feels modern yet integrated. Working in harmony with the lush, garden-style floral clouds designed by Floralia Design Studio, we integrated a custom installation over the central king’s table.
We suspended a series of oversized glass globes at varying heights, tucked among the greenery and white blooms. These globes served as an editorial counterpoint to the rustic environment. The transparency of the glass ensured the installation felt airy, while the internal bulbs provided a focused, amber glow that transitioned beautifully as the June sun set.
Collaborative Design
Achieving this level of detail requires seamless coordination with the planning and design team. Working alongside Pinch Me Planning, every element—from the choice of specialty linens to the placement of our installations—was intentional. The result was a design that felt both expansive and incredibly private.
While the couple celebrated their ceremony in the fresh Maine air, the Dairy Barn was transformed into a luminous sanctuary, proving that with the right technical approach, a historic space can feel entirely modern.
