Ahhh….the holidays are here and yes, Christmas is here! Yes, it’s good old Christmas. A time to bake cookies, enjoy family and decorate! Oh yes, what is the holiday’s without decorations. As a home decor addict, holidays are where I thrive. If you read any other articles on this site, you may have seen this line before. I love to decorate. It’s therapeutic and a time where you can show off your personality. With decorating, it just brings out personality in every room and most importantly, brings cheer to you internally. You may not think of it but decorations can affect your mind positively. Especially if you have children. They love seeing color, things that move, it intrigues them. Fascinates them. Gets them to move their imagination and to fantasize. It gets their brain going. Decorations are more than looking “fancy” but an extension of you. Can provide longevity to your life. 

Now,  I want to draw your attention to my absolute favorite decoration, lights! Especially Christmas lights. If you don’t want to put up wreathes, ribbons, bulbs, garland, inflatables, and other decorations, that is fine.  You can throw up some lights and still shine. 

Christmas lights provide depth to other decorations and generally draw them out! A classic case, your tree. You can string just lights on your tree and it will still hit peak! The light just automatically draws your attention to the object. They also provide depth and dimension to your objects. You ever see twinkle light dazzle on a tree, a sight to adore! 

If you have never decorated before or want to start something new, you are in the right place. Grab a cup of hot chocolate and muffins, it’s time to thrive in 2025! 

Why Christmas Lights

Now before I start. You can get the decorations popping without Christmas lights. You can use candles, flood lights, puck lights, strip lights, night lights, string lights, and even lamps. Trust, I use all these light options when I decorate for Christmas. Why? I believe in creating a bigger than life theme. I go all out on the holidays. If I have them around the house, why not use them. They can be used in pairing and bring out the decorations even more. Lights provide dimension and depth. It creates a bigger than life serene. It draws attention to the object. It’s so central. 

My Answer To Why I Love Lights And Their Importance

If you watch any shows, for instance plays or musicals in a theatre. What do you see, strobe lights. Lights hitting the objects (performers) while the rest of the stage is dark. Your focus is drawn to the performer. How they lift their legs, extend their arms, basically, telling a story with their body. The lights highlight and bring dimension. Help tell the story and help you to focus. Also provide excitement, intrigue and power. Lights are amazing in so many ways. I often think of this when I am decorating. I want to create excitement, happiness and a performance when I am decorating. 

I love cool and warm lighting. These lights make up most of my lighting collection. It’s just my thing. Now don’t get me wrong, I love color, but warm and cool lighting just screams Christmas. With color, I love to use fairy string lights. They have bright tropical colors (pastel). I love these because they go well with cool and warm lights. It doesn’t look weird. I use them on smaller objects (glass vases). They look amazing with other warm fairy string lights. The splash of colors intertwined brings out dimension. It depends on my mood. We will get into my personal preferences later. 

Now, since we are talking about Christmas, we can’t forget Christmas lights! Yes, this post is about them. What is decorating without them. There are a few things I want to draw out about Christmas lights. The colors, types of strings, power options and the different lighting settings. Yes, the lighting setting is key. You ever turn on the TV and see NYC during Christmas. You are awe struck. All you see is lights going in all types of patterns. Capturing and dazzling your eye. 

You can get the same vibe in your home! 

Make Sure You Pick Up The Right Box Of Lights

There are many lights on the market, it’s so hard to choose. It is easy to pick up the wrong ones.  Hey these are on sale, these will do. You can be disappointed if the color options aren’t capturing your eye. Especially when you string them up and realize they are dull. I know, disappointment. We all have expectations. 

Trust me, I saw it in action. As I am perusing the aisle of lights, I saw a customer just grab off the shelf. Not even looking over the product. Just picking up the item and throwing it in the basket. I would’ve stopped him if he wasn’t buzzing out of there in 2 seconds. Don’t just grab the first thing. On to another story time. 

When I was in Wal-Mart pursuing, a couple was looking for outdoor string lights. I interjected and gave my advice. What is your theme, who are you trying to entertain, what’s your color preferences? Do you like colorful lights or white lights? Do you know about the different lighting setting options? Now, I am not knocking Wal-Mart, they have a good assortment but are limited to lights with different (lighting setting). Target is the winner for lights, why?

• Budget-friendly 

I know, when you think of the best bargain, it’s Walmart. Both Wal-Mart and Target cheapest lights are about the same price ($3.00 a pop). What put Target on top is the sales. They have a better assortment of lights and when they have a sale, it’s better. I think it’s a combination of my preference for their lights and sales. It’s the different lighting settings, colors and style that I prefer. When they have a sale, it rocks. I would hit Target up a few weeks before Black Friday and during Black Friday. Prices are much better. I’ll get into it more below. 

Now, before I move on. I have to say they both are good on online ordering (shipped to your home). Walmart- teamed up with Amazon does have a good selection on high volume  (quantity discount). Say a 12 pack of fairy lights for $12.00. It depends on the free shipping minimum ($35).  It depends on the lights you want. As I keep stating, lights I love have to be either Led and have different lighting settings. If it’s steady lights (light stays steady/no flickering), they have to be significantly cheaper. I am not going to waste money when it can be applied to the lights I desire. 

That is why I go with Target. I can get the lights, style and colors I love. Wait until they go on sale and stock up. Works out for the best. 

Now, I can’t forget other stores. Lowes, Michael’s, Home Depot, Ace Hardware and Walgreens. Yes, they also have sales but limited color choices. They don’t have the assortment like Target does. Target wins. That’s why I direct you to Target. The second best would probably be a tie between Walmart and Lowe’s. Lowe’s does have some bright/tropical color choices and a good sale. Just limited to lighting settings. Many of the lights don’t have lighting settings or in Lowe’s language, color changing. Lowe’s does have a good selection of lights $1.99 and 60 count fairy lights $3.49. The thing is, they are steady lights and $1.99 are incandescent. 

If you have a set budget, not picky and not looking to use lights as frequently, then you might like Lowe’s or Walmart. As I continue to point out, find lights with different patterns. They have steady options on them. At least you won’t be pigeoned with one option, you can play around and you’re getting the best for your dollar. 

• Better assortment of lights 

Target wins with the better color choices. I didn’t notice Wal-Mart having a good assortment of lights with different lighting settings. Target wins in this category. They have both the (darker/duller assortment of lights and a great assortment of  (brighter/ tropical/pastel/ options). That is why I choose Target as my primary merchant of choice. This is a choice if you go to the store. It also if you order online. 

Now, don’t get me wrong. I did score some cool lights with different lighting settings from Walmart for $4.00 online (you will see them in the video below). I also provide the link below to Wal-Mart. If you shop online and opt for shipping, you may luck out in finding light options for a good deal. They are linked together. 

Way To Celebrate Battery Operated LED Slim Lights, 33 ft, Cool White, Flexible Wire – Walmart.com

One thing I want to draw out is money. You have to realize you’re investing your hard earned money. That includes the time you research,  gas/mileage on your car and electric cost once you plug them in.  You want to pick out the right lights. Lights that will last you the long duration and go with your taste. 

Just like you picked out your house, you took your time. It was the right color, size, price and condition. You should do the same with your lights. You can pick up some amazing lights (on sale) that will leave you and your company in awe. As a home decor warhead, I am very passionate about picking out the right decor all the time. I study, it’s an avid passion. There is a reason for every piece. It has to go with my style and also, go in pairing with color theory. Oh yes, the graphic design side comes in play as well. 

Deal On Other Lights, Head To Lowes

Yes, Lowe’s. Just went over them a bit. Yes, I’ve been heavy on Target, but I have to throw in my love for Lowe’s as well! I picked up some great flood lights, puck lights, and other lighting from them. They generally have a good mark down section. I compared them to other stores, primarily Home Depot. Lowe’s wins. I’ve picked up about 8 flood lights this year, lol. Their sales have been good. I noticed the sale on flood lights were off and on. It’s hard to gauge when they go back on sale. Just a little tip, peruse online or call the store to see if a deal’s going on. That will save you a trip. The last time I dropped in, the flood lights were back on sale. So what did I do, I picked up a few more. Peruse Lowe’s today to see what you can get on clearance! Not just the flood lights.

Holiday Living 30 -Count 9-ft Color-changing Color changing LED Plug-In Christmas String Lights in the Christmas String Lights department at Lowes.com

Personal Experience With Christmas Light Shopping

I am here to guide you on amazing light options you can pick up. I have to apologize as I should have had this post rolling post Black Friday. I was in Target basically two weeks prior to Black Friday perusing the Christmas light section. Yes, I went to 6 different Targets. Those email ads come in handy. I generally know when they have things on sale but the emails do help. I love their selection of decor because it’s modern and fresh. You know Target, they keep up to date with trends. If you ask any home decor avid, Target is among the top in the game. Target knows how to set up their store to dazzle the eye, it’s not a surprise that products they sell are also top in the decor game. 

How To Pick Out The Right Multicolored Lights 

On to the light section at Target! Yes, nothing but the best. Let’s go over multi-colored lights first (since they are the common options for folks). Now, let’s get into the color spectrum. We have our primary colors, red, yellow, blue. When you mix primary colors you get secondary colors. Red +yellow=orange, red+blue=purple and blue+yellow= green. 

As you may see (on the color wheel chart below) the closer to yellow, the brighter colors are. More closer to blue, the darker.  If you think of the sun and light, you can see this theory as well. As you see on the bottom part of the color wheel, they are lighter/brighter. That’s because more yellow pigment is included. These are the colors I gravitate to. Brighter/tropical colors for lights. We will get more into it, more below. 

 Some lights offer a mixture of colors. Often Christmas theme colors. Red, green, yellow, white. Red, green, yellow, purple, orange. Pink, purple, green, blue. Some are just warm white/cool white colors. Just to name a few. 

Deeper Multicolored Lights Are Not My Friend 

Most light options feature deeper pigments (more on the blue side of the color wheel). Think, deep purple, green, blue, yellow, and red. It’s ok but in all honesty, I feel they are duller than the other options. They don’t command a pop like our brighter and bolder (tropical counterparts). The reason why these shades dominate the shelves is because of pricing. The store has to make a sale. What better way to fill the shelves with these cheaper options. The ordinary consumer can’t tell the difference from the richer, more eye-popping options. If you see lights that are cheaper or on sale, it’s often these deeper pigmented options. They are cheaper to make hence why they are cheaper. 

How To Pick Out The Right Color Lights 

To help you out, peruse online. Often the sights have a preview of the lights. You can also see the colors on the packaging. If you are like me, you can also ask in the store for assistance. Not condoning this but if I see an electrical port, I test the lights out. Yes, I am careful not to break the package but I have to make sure its the right color. You can ask the associate. They also have a nice rack on top (Target) that previews the lights. Also on the trees. Still, you can ask for assistance before you leave. I don’t want you coming back to the store (no wasting gas). 

Yes, if you grab these darker colored options, you can make them work. You can grab some puck lights or strip lights to make them pop. Also, think of the color contrast of your decorations. Try to grab colors and decor that can make them pop. Gold, white and silver can dazzle them. It’s all about contrast. Dark against a lighter color always work! I put up color wheel. Take a look at it. Look at colors on the opposite spectrum. It always works. 

Tropical/Brighter Multicolored Light Options For The Win

 Now, I want to draw your attention to my favorite option and one I highly recommend grabbing off the shelf, tropical/brighter multicolored lights! I am a stickler for tropical colors. If you know color theory, they are on the brighter side of the spectrum. Think yellows, pink, coral, yellow, canary yellow, orange, tangerine, fuschia, lime, baby blue, sky blue, and lavender to name a few. They go great with deeper/neutral colors. Grays, browns, black, white, deep green, they are amazing with. 

Well, one thing about these lights is finding them. Yes, finding the correct colored lights. To help you out, I will go to the lights I got from Target. I got them on sale for ($4.00) regularly priced at $7.00. 

100ct LED Smooth Mini Christmas String Lights Light Blue with Green Wire – Wondershop™: Indoor/Outdoor, UL Listed : Target

If you look at the colors, you notice they are brighter/sharper than the darker pigmented lights. Think of stores at night. As you drive down the road, you may notice all type of signs. Mostly, signs with bright fluorescent lighting (so they stand out better in contrast with the night). Another example is a fair or carnival. In my profession, I generally attend the Big E or Durham Fair. These are some of the world’s most popular fairs. These events are filled with lights and all types of effects! Bright colors automatically strike me first and stand out over everything! They automatically bring a smile to my face. It’s amazing to see! 

You want the same effect when you are decorating. You want a well balanced atmosphere that will dazzle. You want your lights to pop and enhance the rest of your decor. You want your lights to capture your eye, tell a story. Make you smile and your heart to melt. That is the whole goal. To provide happiness and cheer! As you will most likely be lighting up during the night, you want your decorations to pop.

This is where you want our brighter/tropical colors lighting friends. They go amazing with every decoration and make them shine. Also, you will notice how they will dazzle during the day as well. Having more yellow pigment (yellow represents light) makes them lighter/brighter counterparts your best friend. If you have the darker pigment lights, you will notice how they won’t stand out in comparison. They will be harder to see in the daytime than the brighter colors. Defeating the purpose. You don’t want to waste electricity if you can hardly see your decorations. Also, darkness represents coldness and sterileness. You don’t want this messing with you psychologically. 

LED Lights Are The King Of The Hill

Let’s move on to the type of bulb you should get LED! 

Yes, bulbs matter. I know, we aren’t Edison but it doesn’t hurt to learn a little about lighting and why it matters. 

LED are the goat. They save on electricity ( they don’t need to generate much heat to produce an electric current in comparison to their counterparts).  More electric currents are being directed to the bulb, providing for more light. You aren’t losing heat (wasting money) in comparison to incandescent lights. Therefore, you’re using less power and getting more light in return. 

They also are more efficient in lighting. If you ever heard of the term directional lighting, well you’re most likely talking about LED. More light is concentrated in a certain direction. It’s controlled to flow in that direction to provide optimal lighting. If you have light spread everywhere (incandescent), it’s not as sharp and bright. LED lights offer more focus to the object

LED lights are also a little bit more pricer than incandescent lights (because of more technology). The price is well worth it because you get more in return. You get a brighter, safer and longer lasting bulb. Also, more color options. Also, bulbs that will provide, shape, depth, dimension to your decorations. The controlled direction of the light can highlight your object, drawing attention to the eye. It creates shadows and highlights to your decor. With light spreading everywhere, lighting is dull and washed out. 

LED also are more efficient in the colder temperatures. If you are using outdoor lighting, LED are your friends. The bulbs won’t crack under freezing temperatures. Also, won’t burn out as well. 

Once again, you are investing your hard earn money. We want to use it wisely. Yes, I recommend saving the receipt. Before you do, check the store policy (on returns). Sometimes, it is hard to return your lights. 

LED are your brighter, more efficient, more colorful options to turn to.

Even though I go over LED’s, you can also have incandescent apart of your arsenal. I do. Even though 85% of lighting is LED, I do have incandescent. They have some made ones (Target) that are amazing. I use them strategically. They mix well with LEDs. With care, they have been holding up very well and haven’t cracked under pressure. Also, they have a twinkle option (which is a great find). Yes, they are duller than the LED counterparts but I use them strategically. I use them as a balance to create a more subtle effect (in areas I want to highlight). 

Perhaps an area of the house or decorating where there is less focus. I throw them on just for ambiance and it goes well. Sometimes I mix them with the LED for a nice contrast effect. 

What’s The Issue With Incandescent Lighting 

Before I go on, I will go over incandescent lighting. Incandescent lighting uses a heat current to a filament to generate light. Often, a lot of energy is used to produce light. Essentially, a lot of heat is escaping to heat this filament. So you’re using more electricity than you should to produce heat. Essentially, you’re wasting electricity and money. If you ever touch a bulb (often glass), its hot to touch. That can be a safety concern so often, you have to be careful. Yes, the heat maybe cozy but not good on your hands! 

Incandescent also have a shorter life span. You often have to replace them because they burn out quicker (we went over how they take more heat to produce a current, generating more burn out). Light also spreads out more, creating a more dull effect to your lighting. 

They also are more warm in ambiance and come with less color options. They’re often duller and deeper pigments. Due to their low production nature, they are also cheaper. Yes, I know we like to save our coins but we have to be smart. We are thinking about the long run. We don’t want to run out every year to get more Christmas lights. We want to hold on to our lights. We never know if we will run into another amazing sale next year. 

The key is to find lights with good ratings and options. Do your research like I do. I will list these amazing ones at Target. Yes, I got them for $2.00 (originally $4.00). The best thing, they have a lighting option (twinkle). It’s hard to find as majority of have steady settings.

100ct Incandescent Smooth Mini Christmas String Lights Clear Twinkle with Green Wire – Wondershop™ : Target

Now that we got our little lesson on lights out of the way, lets get into some more options. 

Warm Lights Are The Way To Relax

The yellow/orange glow and flicker gets me everytime. I think of romance, warmth and comfort when I see them. They are my favorite lights and can work all year long. Yes, I use them all year and everywhere. They’re not just reserved for Christmas but can go for Thanksgiving (beautiful on runner), wedding, birthday, 4th of July, Easter, Super Bowl, you name it. I have them on my stairways, drawers, tables, everywhere. Yes, battery-operated. Got to conserve electricity here. 

Now, a little color theory. Warm lighting provides warmth. It mimics the glow of the sun, camp fire or candlelight. Our body’s natural rhythm relaxes in its presence. It’s nature. When we see the sun set, we think of relaxation, almost time for bed. It’s the best lighting for when you’re trying to sleep. You want to relax and unwind. Having a bright light (alert) will do you know justice. 

9.5′ 3mm 100ct LED Micro Christmas String Lights Blue with Green Wire – Wondershop™ : Target

Here is a little video presentation that goes over the lighting settings.

As you see, I love my lights. Just a little fraction of them, lol. It goes over in depth on my nuance on color and different lighting choices. Yes, I like my lights to move. Yes, steady is beautiful but I am a decor freak, I need drama! I like to capture the eye. I love my decor to tell a story, an extension of my personality. Fun, vibrant, and full of happiness. It’s all about pop and drawing attention. Providing excitement. 

In the video, I will go over the different lighting settings. You may go into the store, see pretty lights and that’s it. You may think, they may flicker. Only to get home and be disappointed. We are human. That’s why I am here. You want to look at the description online and on the box. You can ask the store associate. Let them know you’re looking for lights that are bright and with different settings. They often have twinkle on the box. Sometimes they don’t. You may be surprised that some lights that don’t come with multi lighting settings. 

This happened to me when I went into Target. Yes, I’ve been eyeing these micro lights for months. Waiting for them to go on sale. I didn’t know they had different options until I read the back of the box. Also read descriptions online. I got them on sale for $6.00 on Black Friday (they were originally advertised to be on sale for $10.00). I was so happy that I scooped up 4 boxes of them. I love a bargain that’s better than I thought. I am also waiting until after Christmas to see if they have a clearance sale. I love these micro string lights because they blend in seamlessly into the tree. Also, the gold, yellow and warm white just amazes the eye. I love these lights so much! They remind me of the stars in the universe merging with a parade! Amazing! 

9.5′ 3mm 100ct LED Micro Christmas String Lights Pure White/Warm White/Gold with Green Wire – Wondershop™ : Target

A little more on warm lights- They also provide a warm inviting atmosphere. Think of family and socializing. If you ever been in a restaurant, you will notice the lighting. Also, your dining room, bedroom. Coziness, warmth and relaxation. It brings such a relaxing atmosphere. Like the sun setting in your house, how amazing. You ever see the sun set at the beach, amazing power there. 

When you are picking out your lights and choosing warm, think of where you want to string them. If on your tree (either green or white) they will pop! The yellow glow looks amazing and nice. It gives a nice romantic/cozy vibe. It’s a relaxing vibe. It also looks great against brown, blue and essentially any color. 

If You’re Stringing Lights, Determine The Color Of The Objects

 If you have a white tree (you may want to get the silver or white wire). I love the translucent look. You don’t want to see the wire on your decorations, it’s just a no! You want it to blend in translucently with your lights shining out! If you have white wire and have a lot of greenery, try to hide the wire behind the greenery. Make sure the lights pop out. It may take some time but it will look much better than seeing the wire. You can also put garland around the wires as well. 

Also, if you have a lot of white or light color decor/walls you are stringing lights, go with white /silver wiring. Having copper or green wire may look odd. It will drown out the lights. The key is getting the lights to pop. I am always hiding the wire, taking a little more time to fluff greenery around them. It makes a difference. Ofcourse, dont hide any of the lights, lol. 

On a green tree, wreath or garland, go for green wire. You know the theme, make things translucent. That’s why most Christmas lights have green wire. To blend in with your tree and greenery. Copper wire can be a go.  It can be a good contrast in providing a pop of red. I wouldn’t recommend on white tree, it’s a clash. Also, copper wire looks amazing against glass. It provides an extra pop of warmth and dimension to the lights. Silver wire does the trick as well. I just see copper does the trick a little bit better! 

Get Into Cool Of Things, Cool White Lighting 

We went over warm, which offers more yellow/orange tone lighting. Now we get into the cool of things, which offers more blue tone lighting. Think of ice, water and alertness. This type of lighting is great if you want to evoke an ice/winter type of theme. Just think of playfulness, alertness and starkness. 

Although I think of playfulness, this lighting can also evoke coldness as well. I think of the positive and playfulness. I love ice themes. My house has this theme. It’s white ice castle/Antarctica vibe. Whites are everywhere. It’s polar express to the extreme. You can use this lighting around areas of your house where you want to evoke this type of vibe. Maybe around your windows, gutters, roof lining. They look amazing draped as outside lighting. Also, around any Christmas decorations outside! Think of your deer, snowman and for our Grinch fans, the Grinch himself.  It looks like ice, creating an amazing ambiance. It just screams Winter and Christmas.

You will see a glimpse of them in the video up above. You will also see a little detail on different lighting settings. 

Ultra Pure White Light Is The Highlight

Can’t forget another favorite is ultra-pure white lighting. Yes, has an even balance of yellow and blue, to produce white light. 

Yes, the brightest of the bright. Its amazing outdoor lighting. Can be used to accent other lighting. Have you seen white against red, to adore! Even best, blue, can we scream winter heaven. It goes with every color and can be used as accent. It screams alertness and should be used strategically. Strip lighting, puck lights are amazing here! They can be used in pairing with your Christmas lights.

Now, let’s get into more details on light settings. 

Why Lighting Settings Matter 

Yes, I love lighting settings. They tell a story. They can enhance your decorations like no other. If you are looking for a subtle mood, choose the subtle options. If you are looking to draw attention or go with a theme, use the bolder options. They are all up to you. Play around with them. I always plan ahead. I think, what is my theme? Who am I entertaining? What is the purpose of putting up these lights? What is the mood I am trying to set?  For instance, if I am looking to entertain kids, I use the bolder options. If it’s seniors, I use a more subtle setting (they generally like softer settings, can’t take too much).  If it’s my partner, I would use more of a gentle setting (glisten just screams romance, he deserves it). I think you get the idea here. Plan ahead. 

Play around with the settings. Get use to them. Use your creativity and you will have amazing lighting for years! 

Battery-operated or Electricity, Which One?

Yes, the options. If you’re a conserver like me, I have a lot of battery operated. I also use my lights for my job. I like portability and not being limited to just one area. Invest in some rechargeables (stock up on Black Friday), you will thank me. You won’t be so conscious of a high energy bill. Also, they help offset the cost of having an electric version. I use a combination of both. 

I noticed Home Depot has the best sale on their batteries. I got the value (36 pack) for about $16. Not bad. Check them out today! 

For my electric friends, I have surge protectors, power strip and 5-outlet grounded power hubs. Also, 2 prong adapters! I always have these around in case the outlet calls for a 2 prong. If you’re plugging in a lot of things in one area, invest in these bad boys. Yes, checking to make sure your lights have electric ports (so you can plug other lights into them). You can also get a value pack light system (450 count) so you don’t have to worry about a lot of plugging. This also can be annoying as it is a hassle to not get tangled. I like having more control of individual strings (100 count). I can play around with the designs and can work in more areas. Just my tip. 

How To Organize Your Lights 

Velcro strips are your friends. I love these things. I have so many packs. I am a master organizer (voted class organizer). I wrap my lights in a circle then use about 4 or 6 velcro strips around them. This helps me to not encounter a tangled mess. Also, you can neatly put them away in your Christmas closet without taking up too much room. Also, prevents breakage as well. We have to take care of our lights. Check out these exact ones I got from Walmart. 50 pack for $6.00

VELCRO Brand ONE-WRAP® Ties 8in x 1/2in Ties Gray & Black 50 ct – Walmart.com

You can also get storage bins or boxes. Its easy to organize your decorations in one section. Lights with lights. Blue bulbs with blue bulbs. Garland with garland. You get the gist. So when you decorate for next Christmas, you will be all set. Won’t waste time. As we know, we want everything to be evenly distributed throughout. It would be easier to strategically place everything for next year. 

Indoor/Outdoor Lights

Outdoor Lighting Tips 

Before we move forward, we have to think ahead of where we are stringing lights. You want to plan because you don’t want to put lights outside and they corrode. Also, won’t hold up in the weather. Talk about money down the drain. I wouldn’t put my copper wired fairy string lights outside. Why? Copper and water don’t mix. It’s a recipe for rust heaven. Not a good look. 

I don’t want to wear out my lights faster than they should. Examine the packaging and look for indoor/outdoor lighting. Also, outdoor lighting is conducive to fit over larger areas/elements (trees, bushes, gutters, roof, porch). More than likely, you will be dealing with higher volume of lights and wiring.  Also, provide more currents in lighting to illuminate better against nature (sky).

LED Over Incandescent Lighting When Stringing Lights Outside

Also, we are thinking of powering our lights. When dealing with the outside, it’s tons of lights. We have to think what would be best on our budget. That’s why I highly recommend you pick up LED’s. They are more durable, more color options, brighter, more concentration of light in one direction (providing depth/dimension), and more energy efficient. In comparison to incandescent (which are energy drainers), LED are your friend. 

Yes, LED’s cost a bit more but this cost is minute in comparison to powering them. They last 20 years and longer. They require less wattage than incandescent. We are talking about 80% less. Your energy bill will thank you! Compare 4W Led to 100 W incandescent lights. Takes less energy to power the same type of lights, pick up LED’s. You also have to account for not overloading your electric current. Once again, incandescent lights are energy drainers. We don’t want to be calling the UI or hitting the switch board from overloading. We don’t want to be disappointed that we can’t string lights because we don’t have enough power. 

Tip On Safety When Working On Outdoor Lights 

When working outside, make sure you stay safe. Use extra protective gloves. Also, check your electric current. Stay safe on the ladder, don’t wear any clothes that are torn. Primarily your pants. You don’t want a snag to hit the ladder, causing you to fall. Make sure your clothes are snug. If you can invest in a safety harness, please do so. Also, make sure not to put up lights when it’s wet. You don’t want an electric shock or slip accident happening. 

My job for a living is selling gutter protection. 1 out of 4 people die slipping off the ladder trying to clean them. It’s not just elderly but all ages. We have to be careful. Also, make sure you have adequate lighting and in proper mental space. You don’t want to get dizzy or fall.

Why You Should Start Working At Top Of House And Work Your Way Down

 Have a bite to eat so you stay conscious and alert. Have a plan on how your lights will be placed before you hit the ladder. You don’t have to draw a pretty picture, just a light plan. You can say, colorful string flights will be placed on the roof lining near the edge of the garage. The warm whites will be placed on two bushes in front of the house. I will start at the top first (so I won’t be working while I am tired) and work my way down. 

I highly recommend working on top first or separately (so you won’t get tired). You want to be fully rested and alert when you are in elevation. Once again, you don’t want to slip off the ladder. Who wants to be in the hospital for the holidays. You don’t want to become paralyzed and lose a sense of your well being. With prep, you will be ok. 

Check Your Lights First Before You Get On The Ladder

Before you put up the lights on top, test them to make sure they work. Plug them into your ground outlet and check them 3 times. I would say, check them 3 days in a row or alternate days.  So, what does this mean? Plan for this a week before you hit the ladder.  That way, you don’t have to make an extra trip up the ladder. 

Make sure you have extra extension cords (heavy duty/outdoor),  5-outlet outdoor power hub, prongs, 2 port ground adapters. Make sure they fit into your ground outlets. They will come in handy. No where your ground port is beforehand and have your outlets positioned to that side, that way you don’t have to worry about any issues. Also, make sure you don’t overload your extension cords. This is where deterioration and fires happen. This happens when the amount of circulation exceeds the cords maximum requirements. You don’t want to be breathing in toxic fumes. Safety comes first. 

Another cool thing is to estimate your cost in hanging your lights. It’s easy to do and if you have some free time, do so. It’s time to get our math brains together. It will also help with planning and gives you a peace of mind. Lets determine an estimate below. 

1. Find total watts on the package. Once you got the number, divide by 1000.
2. Determine how many hours you will be using the lights per day. 
3. This will give you kwh or kilowatt per hour. 
4. Then, grab the UI bill. Find the electric rate for (kwh)
5. Once you got all your numbers, we will put in a formula. 
6. Put formula together = Total Watts/1000 * hours= kilowatt per hour (kwh). If doing day, week, or month=Total Watts/1000* hours (day, week, or month).
7. Then estimate cost = Kwh * electric rate on UI bill. 
8. Calculate total cost 

Time for an example boys and girls. 

Let’s say we are planning on hanging up string lights on our bush out front. Your package of Led lights says it uses 4W per hour. We figure that we will hang lights for 3 hours per day (for 20 days). Your electric rate per kwh is $.30 cents. We can now estimate the cost of the bill. 

In this example, we will calculate 

4/1000* 3 hour per day (20 days)=.24 Kwh

.24 *.30=.072 would be your cost 

If budget is your thing, great way to plan ahead. It doesn’t take a long time and will save you a headache. 

If you have a sensitive electrical system in your home, take note of where your trip system is. No how to switch them back on in case the power goes out. Don’t panic if you don’t see the lights turn on. Check this system to see if the safety switch kicked in. It’s there for your protection, especially against fires. 

When you do check, check weeks before your plan to string the lights. Don’t wait until the last minute. You will be stressed and this is when accidents happen. Always plan ahead and have a plan B. 

Then work on areas towards the ground last. You will be more relaxed and not as annoyed. You don’t have to worry about going up on the ladder to string the lights, Yes. 

Invest In An Timer To Save Headache Of Managing Lights

If you can invest in a timer, please do so. Lowe’s has a great system in front of their stores. You can pick them up at any store. They are life savers. You don’t have to worry about having lights on the entire day. If you want them to come on when it turns dusk and for a few hours, there you go. Saving on electricity.

 Also, think of areas that have a lot of sun. We don’t want to wear down your lights and also, it  may be hard to see your lights. The visibility will be a no. You may put a timer on to turn on at 6 am-9 a.m. then come back on at 5:00-10:00 p.m. Most likely, you are wanting to entertain yourself, neighbors and passerbyers.  Think of the time when you will be home or you know people will be seeing it. It does no justice if no one is going to look at them. So you may set up a timer for when people get off work and you’re home. It’s a win for your budget. Just a tip!

Tip For Hanging Outdoor Lights 

If you can, avoid hanging on the gutters. Gutters are very sensitive and I don’t want you to crack your precious investment. The purpose of your gutters is to catch the rain water. Keeping it safe and dry, preventing foundation damage. You don’t want to mess up the pitch or angle. It’s a no. If you do, be safe and gentle. Use gutter clips. Don’t be aggressive. Treat them as you would your body. If you can, try to align with your roof lining. You have to be careful there as you don’t want to mess up your shingles. It protects the foundation of your home. You don’t want any foundation damage in this area. We know how expensive roof are. It’s for a reason. They are the  protective barriers to your home. 

Indoor Lights, Where The Sun Hits 

As we went over outdoor lights, you have to take account of your theme. What areas do you want to highlight? If you hang lights where there is a lot of sunlight coming in, it may cause your lights to deteriorate. Also, visibility issues. You also have to account for where your electrical outlets are. Do you have extension cords, power trips, does your lights have electrical outlets (where you can plug other lights into them),  5-outlet outdoor power hub, prongs, 2 port ground adapters. Try to opt in getting white cords as they blend into decor beautifully.  You don’t want a lot of cords or wires showing. If you have lighting settings, you are most likely dealing with boxes. Hide the boxes behind other decorations or move towards the back. You can put garland over them. You can also get white or Christmas themed duct tape. Be careful before you choose, you don’t want a clash with your decor scheme. The less clutter shown, the more your lights will shine. 

Hang Lights With Indoor Clips 

Also, so you aren’t limited, invest in some command transparent indoor clips. These won’t damage your walls. We want to avoid using nails and other materials that will leave marks or holes. I highly doubt this will happen but just in case, if removing becomes an issue, get a heat gun (or blow dryer). Heat will warm up the glue residue. It should roll off.  If paint does come off, you can touch it up. Take a paint sample to Home Depot, Lowe’s, Ace Hardware or neighboring hardware store. Try to get a sample near the bottom of your wall. Look behind the baseboard. Can use a utility knife and make a cut. Take to the store. Ask for a paint touch up. You don’t have to get a whole gallon. You can repair the spot that is damaged and area where you got the sample. A tip, keep the sample and make note of the paint used (just in case another accident happens). You don’t have to get another sample. Keep in safe place (storage box in utility room). 

Also, if a hole is made, you can get a multipurpose hole filler. Use a spackle. Let dry and use your touch up paint. It’s like nothing happened. Should cost under $10.00. 

Have A Step Stool In Your House, 3 -4 step ladder Is The Best 

Yes, I love to plan ahead. Let’s face it, things have to come down in your house from time to time. Wash curtains, hang a picture, you name it. Height is needed. To be smart, I get the highest step ladder. That way I am not pigeonholed on reaching anything. If it’s lower, I am covered. If it’s higher, I am covered. I think you get the idea. 

If you’re like me, I am not limited to hanging lights on the tree. No, I hang on stairways, tables, chairs, perimeter of upper walls, drawers, furniture, doorway, and windows. 

A lot of  height is involved so that is where the step ladder comes in. I work from left to right so it’s less ladder movement. I also keep my lights wrapped in velcro and unwrap them (slowly) while I am hanging them. This prevents tangles from happening. It’s not time consuming and I am not going up and down off the ladder. Thank me later. 

Battery-Operated, Stay Away From Heat

Yes, good old heat and batteries don’t mix. If you have heat near them, they will melt. We don’t want to waste  our precious batteries. Just take note of heat sources around your home. This goes with all your decorations. Keep them away from heat. Don’t want to cause a fire as well. 

Also, make sure you keep your covers on. They help protect your batteries. You don’t want them spilling all over the place. You can put a velcro over them if they start to become loose. We want to keep our decorations organized. 

Conclusion

Yes, we went over a good lesson in Christmas lights. There is so much more. I won’t tie it up in one post. I will go over different bulb shapes, decorating ideas and other events/ideas you can use for Christmas lights. 

They aren’t reserved for Christmas but can be used all year long. I keep my Christmas tree up all year. I just drag it to my back hallway, serving as all year decor. “You still have your tree up.” Yes, it’s not reserved just for Christmas. I have crystals and light strung throughout my house. As previously mentioned, my house is Antartica, ice theme. Winter wonderland as you may think. Nothing but white, silver, gold and pearl throughout. It represents richness, happiness, serenity, peace and fun throughout.

 If you’re Legend of Zelda Oscarina of time fan, you know the levels. Yes, there is the annoying water level and then there is the ice level. Link has to maneuver through ice traps that is something to behold. A little elf not freezing his butt off. I love the winter theme. It screams hot chocolate, days off work, and snuggling under the covers. 

The best thing about Christmas lights is their multipurpose use. You can use them everywhere. As previously mentioned, parties, events, in your car, school, work, you name it. If you feel down, string some up. Watch them glow. See how happy you become. Light represents the sun. Sun is the happiness vitamin. It’s therapeutic. 

It’s great that I love warm and cool light colors. I can get away with using them every time. I am not pigeoned by the traditional Christmas colors (red, green, blue). The yellow and blue tone of the lights work with just about everything. On websites, you will notice lights being used for parties, weddings, anniversaries, college celebrations and birthday parties. The colors can be used interchangeably. I don’t like having things laying around. They were made to be used. Why not make them work throughout the year. I try to use a battery-operated. 

If I use electricity, I will use my portable powerstation. That helps to cut down on electricity. I don’t use them massively like I do on the holidays. It’s all about being smart. Less is more. 

Head over to Target and check out their light sections. Also, take a look around the internet for different light options. It’s all about your taste. Find lights that are LED, have different lighting settings, budget friendly, and go according to your decor. You want your light strings to be transparent within your decor. Think of what color dominates your decor. I gave you ideas. White goes well with white. Green with green. If the opposite, they will stick out like a soar thumb. Lighter color with lighter color and darker colors with darker colors. If I have a green tree and I had to choose between white or copper cord, I am going with copper. It would blend in better. 

Hope the tips presented help you to get started in your journey in lights. There isn’t enough space to go over everything. This is just a tip of the iceberg. Good luck with your selections. 

What are your thoughts on Christmas lights? Do you have a favorite color theme or preference? Where are your favorite places to hang lights?