Bearfly Designs
About Bearfly Designs
BearFly Designs is a lighting design company based in New Lebanon, New York, founded by John and Rita Carver. Their credentials include an Emmy Award, two Axiem Awards, and multiple other nominations between them. That level of recognition in lighting design is unusual for a wedding vendor — it tells you the work is at a professional production level.
They specialize in personalized lighting design for weddings and events of all types. Their approach starts with understanding the venue and the couple’s vision, then building a lighting plan that transforms the space. They also offer décor elements and rental equipment.
Their location in New Lebanon puts them at the intersection of the Hudson Valley, Capital Region, and Berkshires. They serve Upstate New York and Western Massachusetts, which makes them well-positioned for venues in the northern Hudson Valley, Catskills, and Berkshire corridor. They’re willing to work with various budgets, which is worth knowing since lighting is often one of the first things couples cut when costs add up.
BearFly has 57 reviews on WeddingWire with strong feedback. Beyond weddings, they also provide film production support services, which is where the Emmy-level credentials come from. That production background translates to weddings in terms of technical precision and creative vision.
For couples at Hudson Valley wedding venues or Catskills wedding venues where the space needs lighting to come alive, BearFly brings a level of expertise that goes beyond standard uplighting packages.
Contact & Details
- Website: bearflydesigns.com
- Instagram: @bearfly_designs
- Phone: 518-937-9126
- Service Area: Hudson Valley, Capital Region, Upstate New York, Western Massachusetts, Berkshires
- Based in: New Lebanon, New York
- Starting at: Contact for pricing (works with various budgets)
Services Offered
- Custom Lighting Design
- Uplighting
- Bistro/String Lighting
- Event Décor
- Rental Equipment
- Film/Production Support
Real Weddings with Bearfly Designs
I’ve worked alongside Bearfly Designs at Onteora Mtn House. Browse the full gallery of Hudson Valley wedding venues I photograph.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does BearFly Designs work within smaller budgets?
Yes. They’re willing to work with various budgets and can scale their services accordingly. Contact them to discuss what’s possible within your range.
Does wedding lighting make a difference for photography?
Yes — dramatically. Professional lighting changes the color, depth, and mood of a room. Uplighting eliminates flat overhead fluorescents, gobo projections add visual interest, and properly lit reception spaces produce noticeably better photos. It is one of the highest-impact investments for both the guest experience and the photo gallery.
What types of lighting are available for weddings?
Common options include uplighting (color wash on walls), string lights/bistro lights, gobo projections (custom patterns or monograms), pin spots on centerpieces, wash lighting on head tables, and chandeliers. Some vendors also handle draping and staging.
How much does wedding lighting cost in the Hudson Valley?
Basic uplighting packages typically start around $800-$1,500. Custom lighting design with multiple elements can range from $2,500-$10,000+. The cost depends on venue size, complexity of the design, and how much equipment is needed.
Looking for a lighting for your Hudson Valley wedding? Get in touch — I’m happy to share more about my experience working with Bearfly Designs and other recommended vendors in the region.