XL Lighting & Special Effects Services

XL Lighting and Special Effects is a lighting company based in District Heights, Maryland, serving the Washington region and the wider East Coast. It opened in March 2016 and offers mobile lighting systems and effects for weddings and other events.

Why they suit LGBTQ+ couples

The business is LGBTQ+-owned. Lighting is one of the simplest ways to make a room feel like yours, and a vendor who is comfortable with your story will not push a standard bridal look.

What the work looks like

Founder Ron Christopher Porter Jr. leads a team that has worked on more than 250 events. Their focus is a high-tech, portable setup, meaning the equipment travels to your venue. Lighting can change the mood of a ballroom, warm a barn or outline a dance floor. Special effects add dramatic moments, such as a first dance atmosphere.

Planning your lighting

• Visit the venue at the time of day your reception will begin
• List the areas to light, such as walls, tables and entrance
• Ask which effects the venue permits, since some restrict fog and haze
• Agree on setup and breakdown times with the venue manager

Where they work

The company works across the DMV, the area spanning Washington, DC, Maryland and Northern Virginia, and beyond. Ask about travel fees for venues farther out.

Share photos of the venue and your decor with the team, since lighting depends on wall color, ceiling height and layout. A short walkthrough call usually prevents surprises.

Frequently asked

Do they bring their own equipment?

Yes, the system is designed to be portable and brought to the event.

Can we choose our colors?

Share a palette in advance and ask for a test of the scheme.