147
Light Up Columbus (LUC) founder Chris Apfelstadt is a
passionate husband, father, and lighting designer. After more than two
decades of outdoor lighting experience, that passion is evident in every
design, using light as his medium for art.
Chris grew up in Dublin, Ohio, graduating from Dublin Scioto High School
in 2000. He attended The Ohio State University and after six different
majors, finally earned a degree in entrepreneurship from the Fisher College
of Business. While still in school, Chris founded his first company, College
Care Painting. Central Ohio weather makes exterior painting scarce in the
winter months, and Chris decided to offer holiday decorating services as an
additional way to help existing clients. Starting with a few small residences,
Chris earned larger and larger jobs, steadily growing the holiday lighting
business. In 2016, Chris sold his painting company and dedicated his efforts
ILILLIGHT UP COLUMBUS
COLUMBUS, OH
to lighting year-round, offering landscape, event, and architectural
lighting as well.
Nothing excites Apfelstadt more than a new lighting project. He looks
at a dark building or property as a blank canvas and can't wait to paint
the area with light. The most rewarding part of his job is hearing a child's
excitement and wonder when they see Light Up Columbus work for the
first time.
LUC's singular focus is to "Bring Joy Through Light."
Their work has been featured in Architectural Digest, Elle Décor, Forbes
Magazine, and many other local and national publications. Chris and his
team have won multiple lighting awards, including "Best in Show" for
the 2024 and 2025 AOLP International Lighting Design Competitions.
