I think you're quite right. Don't be intimidated! They can put the electrical feed up there and wait until you have the fixture.

Tell him to make some extra points in the Ceiling , say 6 months later if you plan to rearrange in that case the Chandelier can go there .

Agree, as long as you are not picking something that requires special mounting brackets most contractors can simply put a box there and install the light fixture at a later time.

Hi Scottrell, if youre sure of the exact location of the dining table, and that youre going with a *single* light fixture, then your contractor can install the box now. If you're considering multiple smaller fixtures such as pendants etc, then your electrician can leave the wire hidden and loose in the ceiling. (But capped, for safety reasons.) "Cut in boxes" can be used later to get the location perfect for each fixture. We also do this when our clients are not sure whether theyll even use/need a fixture)

For the larger single fixture lights, the best type of box to install would be a reinforced box, which will enable you to use a fixture up to 150lbs. (There are other options for heavier fixtures) Heres a link to one of the ones we use on our projects

http://www.amazon.com/Westinghouse-Lighting-0110000-Saf-T-Brace-Ceiling/dp/B00027EWNW/ref=sr_1_15?ie=UTF8&qid=1346776225&sr=8-15&keywords=Fan+electrical+box

One of the reasons your contractor could be asking you to choose the light fixture now could be to avoid a trip charge for the electrician if the fixture is installed later. You may want to discuss the plan for that now to avoid a surprise later.

Steve

As a professional chandelier installer, you should absolutely pick your table first. The chandelier should be last, as it should be exactly centered in the middle of the table.

HI,

Have you given any thought to the possibility of installing a Murano Chandelier, Please contact us at salesandsupport@italiandecor-glasslights.com if you are interested

Dean Cato
CEO

I would at least decide on size and shape of table, double or single chandeliers and measure from there..you can do it without the actual table if you figure out proper sizing of table to proportion of the room. We just did double chandeliers in our dining room and it took some time to find the perfect sizing of the light fixtures to fit along table and proper sizing for the room as a whole.