11/15/2022
Holiday Decorating Ideas – Your FAQ’s Answered

A table beautifully decorated with holiday candles, lanterns, and a gingerbread house as the centerpiece on a white tablecloth.

Searching for holiday decorating ideas online can be frustrating. Sure, you can find lots of gorgeous photos of holiday decor, but very few of those come with any real details. This may raise a lot of questions and make you feel like you are on your own. But don’t worry – we are here to help! This decorating guide answers your most pressing questions about holiday decorating, from tree and window decorations to exterior doors, and includes outdoor holiday decorating ideas.

Holiday Tree Decorations

What are the five most popular Christmas trees?
The five most popular types of Christmas trees in the US are:

1. Fraser Fir: The Fraser Fir is a popular choice for a Christmas tree because of its attractive appearance and excellent needle retention.

2. Noble Fir: The Noble Fir is one of the most popular trees in America. Its combination of features, including strong branches and a pleasant scent, make it a top choice for holiday decorating.

3. Balsam Fir: The Balsam Fir is known for its fragrant aroma and sturdy branches. These qualities have made it a popular pick for holiday decorating.

4. Colorado Blue Spruce: With strong branches and a classic, conical shape, the Colorado Blue Spruce is another popular choice. It’s also popular for its unique green-blue hue.

5. Douglas Fir: The Douglas Fir is a popular choice because of its full and symmetrical shape and soft, fragrant needles.

In what order do you decorate a Christmas tree?
Most of the time, when decorating a Christmas tree, it’s best to start with the lights. Putting the lights on first ensures that you will not need to navigate around other decorations on the tree. From there, the rest depends on personal preference. Some people like to add garland, ribbons, or other elements first, then ornaments. You can also either start at the top of the tree and work your way down or start at the bottom and work up. It’s up to you and what you think looks and works best!

What is the most popular Christmas tree decoration?
The most popular Christmas tree decorations can vary from year to year, but there are also some perennial favorites that never seem to go out of favor. For example, ribbon, garlands, stars, gingerbread men, and poinsettias have long been favorite elements for Christmas trees, as well as ornaments or other elements with iconic holiday figures on them, such as angels, reindeer, snowmen, and of course, Santa Claus.

What is the most popular tree topper for Christmas?
Tree toppers are diverse and typically based on personal preference and current trends. Some classic tree toppers include angels, stars, and snowflakes. More modern options include personalized initial toppers, woodland animal figurines, and colorful ribbons or bows.

How can I make my holiday tree look luxurious?
To make your holiday tree look as luxurious as possible, start with string lights, garlands, and various ornaments in coordinating colors. Professionals suggest using no more than two or three main colors on a single tree. When decorating, be sure to fill the tree with your decorations so that there aren’t any gaps or empty spaces. Additionally, opting for quality materials such as delicate glass ornaments, velvet ribbons, and faux fur accents can elevate the overall look of your tree.

How do you decorate a Christmas tree like a professional?
A terrific way to decorate a Christmas tree like a pro is to have a cohesive theme or color scheme for your tree. Sticking to one theme or color, such as red, blue, or white, can give your holiday tree that professional touch. Also, make sure to space out and arrange your decorations evenly, leaving some negative space for a clean and polished look. Finally, don’t be afraid to mix textures! Professionals love to use floral picks, berries, velvet ribbons, feathery elements, and glittery ornaments to add visual interest to a tree.

How do you put ribbon on a Christmas tree like a professional?
The easiest method for putting ribbon on a Christmas tree is the wrap-and-tuck approach. Start at the top of the tree and drape the ribbon in a spiral motion downwards, making sure to evenly space out each twist and tucking the ribbon into the branches every so often. as you go. Another option is to create a vertical ribbon cascade. In this approach, secure several long lengths of ribbon at the top of the tree. Use wired ribbon to create “billows” as you go down, tucking and securing the ribbon at intervals down the length of the tree.

Window Decorations

How can I decorate my windows for the holidays?
Depending on the size, shape, and location of your windows, there are many different ways to decorate them. Some ideas for festive holiday window decorations include hanging wreaths directly on the glass or stringing lights or garlands around the frame. Another fun idea is to use white or frosted window clings to create a visually stunning effect. If your windows have a wide sill or bench underneath, you could place festive figurines there or create a holiday scene with a tableau of small decorative pieces. Another option would be to use battery-operated candles to add a warm and inviting touch to your windows.

How do I plan and budget my holiday window decorations?
The first step toward planning your holiday window decorations is to decide on a theme or color scheme. Create a wish list of the types of decorations you’d like for your windows, and then make another list of all the items you would need to purchase to create the look. It’s best to start this process as early as you can to avoid the holiday rush.

Then, research prices for each item and create a budget. You may need to decide whether to buy decorations pre-made or try to make some of them yourself. Just keep in mind that certain items may be less expensive to create yourself but may take time or tools you don’t have. On the other hand, sometimes buying the materials to create a garland, wreath, or other decoration will ultimately cost more than finding one pre-made! This is why it is so important to research carefully and decide what you can reasonably afford.

How do you decorate a window with Christmas balls?
Christmas ornaments can make beautiful window displays! One way to decorate a window using balls and ornaments is to thread them onto ribbon or string and drape them across the window. Another creative idea is to fill transparent glass vases or bowls with ornament balls or create a holiday scene by arranging them with other festive figurines.

When it comes to holiday decorating nothing screams, “I’ve got the holiday spirit!” more than decorating the exterior of your home with lights and inflatable figures. But this also raises a lot of questions, which we answer below.

Holiday Lights

House entrance way and porch of a residential home decorated for the holidays with golden and green wreath garland of fir tree branches and lights.

How many holiday lights do I need to cover my house?
The number of lights you will need to cover your house will vary based on the size and layout of your house, as well as your personal preference for how dense or spread out you want the lights to be. It’s best to measure the length and height of each section you plan to cover, then purchase enough lights to adequately cover those areas.

Can I mix and match holiday light colors?
Of course! Either mixing or matching colors can make for a stunning visual display, depending on what your desired finished effect is. However, it is generally best to choose lights that are compatible and are of the same type (such as all LED or all incandescent). But no matter how you do it, mixing or matching colors can add visual interest to your holiday light display.

How can I control my holiday lights display?
There are several effective methods to control a holiday light display. One of the simplest and low-tech methods is to use a simple timer that will turn your lights on and off at pre-scheduled times. If high-tech is more of what you want, there are programmable lights, smartphone apps, and computer programs that can help you not only turn on and off your lights but also control their brightness and display patterns as well. The type of tech you’ll need will depend on what type of display you want to create.

Can freezing weather affect my holiday lights and inflatable figures?
In a word, yes. Most outdoor lights and inflatable figures can withstand cooler temperatures. But extremely cold weather can potentially cause cracks in the protective coating and damage the wires and light sockets in holiday lights and shorten their lifespan. And depending on the type of figures you use in your display, some materials (like rigid plastic) are more susceptible to cold temperatures than others. So, you might want to bring them if the weather stays extremely cold for an extended period.

It’s important to keep your lights and extension cords protected from the elements when setting up your display. Additionally, make sure to unplug and safely store your holiday lights after each season.

Do I need to upgrade my electrical panel for holiday lights?
In many cases, upgrading your electrical panel won’t be necessary. But it really depends on the wattage of your holiday lights and the capacity of your electrical panel. If you have an older home and/or want to put a lot of lights on your house, it may be necessary to upgrade your panel to prevent overloads and power outages. Consult with an electrician for more information about your specific situation.

How much will my utility bill increase with holiday lights?
While your electricity bill will increase because of your holiday light display, the amount of this increase will vary based on the wattage of your lights and how long they are left on each day. You can help keep your utility bills lower by using energy-efficient LED lights and making sure to turn them off when not in use.

What is the best way to hang holiday lights?
To hang holiday lights safely – and to achieve a professional-looking display – it’s important to use the proper tools and techniques. Knowing and following proper ladder safety is an absolute must when hanging lights. Additionally, hanging Christmas lights along a roofline may require different strategies depending on what type of roof or gutter system your home has, how many stories high your home is, how many gables your house has, and so on. It’s important to figure out what type of hooks or clips would work best for your home and to properly secure all lights to the structure. It’s also important to figure out, in advance, a plan for hiding wires and power sources. Hanging Christmas lights can be a hazardous job, so it may also be helpful to enlist the assistance of friends or professionals.

How do I hang Christmas lights on gutters?
One of the best ways to hang Christmas lights on gutters is to use gutter clips. A good quality gutter clip is designed for hanging lights securely and without damaging your gutters or roof. For best results, make sure to clean the gutters beforehand, use a lot of clips, and evenly distribute the lights along the length of the gutter.

Holiday Door Decorating Ideas

Woman decorating a Christmas wreath.

What are my decorating options for exterior doors?
There are several holiday decorating options when it comes to the exterior doors of your home. You can decorate your doors using lights, cover them with wrapping paper like a holiday gift, or a combination of both. You can also decorate them with an ornamental holiday wreath or use a simple display of pine branches and a few ornaments.

If you choose to go the simple route, gather some pine branches, shape them into a circle or arch, and add a few select ornaments. This type of display is super easy to create and looks great. If you want to get a little fancier, decorate the entire doorframe. You can use lights, garlands, or both. This type of display adds a nice touch to the exterior of your home and lets visitors and guests know you‘ve got the holiday spirit.

Safety Concerns

What are some safety tips for holiday decorating?
There are many ways that holiday decorating can lead to injury. Some important safety tips include choosing decorations that are flame-resistant or non-combustible and keeping lit candles, if you plan to use them, away from decorations and other flammable materials. Also, be sure to inspect your lights for frayed wires or broken bulbs before use, avoid overloading electrical sockets, and place outdoor decorations securely to prevent them from being blown away or causing damage in high winds.

How do I prevent holiday lights from causing fires?
In addition to following our basic safety tips, you can further prevent holiday fires by making sure to turn off all holiday lights before leaving the house or going to bed. The same thing goes for candles or devices that heat up. Never use lights with frayed cords and replace any damaged light strings or other decorations right away.

Now that you’ve read through this guide to holiday decorating ideas, you have taken your first step toward creating the holiday home of your dreams! But amidst all the fun of creating beautiful displays, it’s important to keep safety a top priority for you and your family. Ladders, in particular, cause hundreds of injuries each holiday season and should never be used by children.

At Your Holiday Lights, your safety is our top concern! We can help you create a breathtaking holiday light display without putting you or your family at risk. Visit us on our website to learn more or to schedule a consultation.

11/02/2022
Holiday Decorating – Safely Select, Hang, Maintain and Store Your Decorations

The holidays are a time when we all want to make our homes feel festive and welcoming. And one of the best ways to do that is to get the whole family involved in holiday decorations! But it’s important to remember that during this season, there are also extra safety concerns to be aware of. Do you know how to keep everyone safe during every step of holiday decoration planning? In this guide, we will provide safety tips you can use to ensure that all of your holiday decorating fun goes according to plan. From choosing the right decorations to proper storage and essential safety tips, here’s everything you need to know to make your holiday decorating safe, merry, and bright!

Select Safe Decorations

When it comes to holiday lights and decorations, it’s important to make sure you choose items that are safe for your family and home. Whenever possible, choose decorations made from fire-resistant materials and make sure to keep them a safe distance away from any open flames or heat sources. Avoid glass ornaments or other decorations that could break or shatter. Also, if you plan to buy an artificial Christmas tree, choose one made from fire-retardant materials and use LED lights. LED lights don’t get hot like other types of lights and therefore are much safer – and much more energy efficient – to use in your decorating.

Avoid Unsafe Decorations

Some common holiday decorations can have hidden dangers. For example, decorations with small or sharp parts could pose a choking hazard, especially for young children. Additionally, be cautious of flammable materials such as dried flowers or straw, as they could easily catch fire. If you are planning to have a live Christmas tree, take the necessary steps to keep it from drying out. Dry trees can catch fire much more easily. Choose holiday lights that have been tested for safety and avoid overloading electrical outlets. Take extra care with holiday candles – keep them away from flammable materials and never leave them unattended.

Hang and Remove Decorations Safely

Along with choosing safety-conscious decorations, it’s important to take safety precautions when hanging and removing decorations, as well. For example, when hanging outdoor holiday lights and decorations, use a sturdy ladder or step stool to ensure proper balance and avoid falls. Do not allow young children to climb on or play around ladders – there is a serious risk of injury. Each year, there are more than 164,000 emergency room-treated injuries and 300 deaths in the U.S. caused by falls from ladders. Most ladder deaths are from falls of 10 feet or less. While they should stay away from ladders, there are plenty of other ways that children can help decorate for the holidays. However, it’s important to supervise children during decoration planning and set-up to ensure they don’t handle unsafe or breakable items. Also, be aware of any potential hazards that may arise while decorating – for example, a dangling ornament that a child could grab and potentially choke on. Finally, when removing holiday decorations, do so carefully to avoid damage to your home or injury.

Maintaining Decorations Safely

An important part of your holiday decorating safety strategy is proper decoration maintenance. To keep you and your family safe, start early and take the time to properly clean and inspect your decorations before using them each year. For example, inspect lights and cords for fraying or damage before use. Replace any damaged ones to avoid electrical hazards. Frayed or broken holiday lights can derail your holiday lights projects faster than anything! Before you put your decorations away each year, take the time to wipe them down. This will prevent dirt and grime from building up and potentially cause even relatively safe decorations to become a safety hazard.

Avoid Storage Problems

Proper maintenance and storage go hand in hand. By properly storing holiday decorations, you can avoid damage or safety hazards. Store your decorations in sturdy containers that are big enough for the items to fit safely inside. Choose plastic or other waterproof materials to prevent water damage. Make sure not to overload storage containers. Wrap and store fragile items with extra care to avoid breakage. And be sure to label the containers, so you know where each decoration belongs at the end of the season. Storing light strings the right way can also help avoid damage and huge, messy tangles. Buy or make a reel to keep your lights neatly secured. You may also consider using zip ties or plastic bins with cardboard dividers to keep light strings organized and tangle-free. Lastly, keep stored holiday decorations in a dry, cool place to avoid any potential damage.

Hire Professional Assistance

Decorating for the holidays can be a safe and fun activity for the whole family. But it’s also a lot of work! If busy schedules and safety concerns are putting a damper on your holiday decorating plans, it may be time to consider calling in your local holiday lighting experts to help! At Your Holiday Lights, we can handle many of your holiday decorating needs. We are a professional holiday lighting company that offers free estimates and safety-conscious decorating ideas from professional lighting experts. We can help you get ready for the holidays safely and save you a lot of time and effort. Prioritizing safety during the holidays is one of the best ways to ensure you enjoy the season with your family. So, if you’re looking for holiday lights installation near you, look no further than Your Holiday Lights. We are located right in your neighborhood! Do you have holiday decorating safety tips you’d like to share? Add them to our comments section!

09/15/2016
Tradition or Tragedy? Christmas Light Safety Tips

Hanging Christmas lights seems like your run of the mill holiday tradition… but schlepping all those lights and decor up a ladder is actually as dangerous as it is tedious.

Each holiday season we see almost 15,000 holiday decor related injuries across America. Most homeowners aren’t taking the proper safety precautions while working with or near electrical equipment, and don’t even get me started on ladder safety!

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Learn from Shawn Miller who shared his story on SafeElectricity.org about how he lost his hand and suffered 27 exit wounds after being electrocuted while hanging his mother’s Christmas lights:

“I was just hanging Christmas lights at my mom’s house like I do every year,” Miller said. “Only this time, I was decorating a new area—the trees that lined the front of the yard.” As he tossed lights up into the trees, 7200 volts of electricity entered his body, traveling from the overhead power lines through his strand of lights. He suffered 27 exit wounds and the loss of his left hand, among other injuries.

“Please take note of your surroundings before decorating outside,” Miller urges, “especially power lines and the service connection to your home. Make sure to keep yourself, ladders, and lights far away from them. I’m lucky to be alive. I want everyone to be careful—be aware of power lines.”

We’re here to offer some tips  to keep you and your family safe this holiday season. If you opt for the DIY approach with Christmas lights and decor, it’s important to remember:

  • Check each strand of lights before you hang them. Look for any cracked chords, frayed ends or loose connections before you plug it in to avoid a flare up or surge.
  • Ditch any antiquated lights that are still outfitted with old hardware. New lights have fused plugs that stop sparks from shooting out in the case of a short circuit, and this fundamental safety feature could save your life!
  • Be mindful of the common interaction between electrical lights and tinder-dry trees; both inside and outside the home. Christmas tree fires occur each year, and account for about 14 deaths annually.Keep your indoor Christmas tree well-watered at all times to avoid this safety hazard.
  • Replace burnt out bulbs immediately, but be mindful of the wattage you are buying. Mismatches can cause surges, sparks, and exploded bulbs.
  • Don’t use tacks, nails, or screws – these are all sharp-edged bits that can easily pierce your electrical wiring, causing all sorts of problems. Use insulated hooks instead.
  • Whenever you run extension cords at ground-level, take care to elevate all plugs and connectors. You can simply mount them on a brick or landscape feature. This keeps snow, water, and salt out of the connections to keep your decorations running smoothly.
  • Never leave your Christmas lights running when you go to bed or leave the house. Unattended lights in hostile snowy weather is a recipe for disaster!

It’s also important to mind how you operate on a ladder. There’s much more to consider than you think – don’t risk a fall by being careless! Check out our blog post on WindowGenie.com about ladder safety. A few of our favorite ladder safety takeaways are:

  • Choose a location that is far away from power lines. Coming into contact with live power lines can be fatal!
  • Place your ladder somewhere without obstruction of any kind, and make sure it is fully opened with all locking mechanisms engaged. Stay clear of any unlocked doors.
  • Make sure that the ladder is placed on level ground. Avoid any rocky surfaces, loose or slippery substances, or wet grass.
  • Always face the ladder when climbing. Never try to walk yourself up backwards.
  • Make sure the rungs are dry and wear slip-resistant shoes that will create a lot of friction.
  • Stand at or below the highest safe standing level on a ladder. For a step ladder, the safe standing level is the second rung from the top; for an extension ladder, the safe standing level is typically the fourth rung.
  •  Move the ladder as necessary to prevent the need to overreach. As a general rule, if your belt buckle crosses to either side of the ladder, then you are reaching too far.
  • Keep the distance between the foot of the extension ladder and the wall to no more than 1/4 to 1/3 of the height of the wall that you are scaling.

If any of this sounds like something you’d like to avoid, then consider leaving it to the professionals. Your Holiday Lights is a Window Genie company — the same trained, insured professionals you’ve trusted with your home’s window cleaning, window tinting, pressure washing and gutter cleaning needs will be there to get your holiday lighting done safely. Call 888-311-8882 for a free estimate.

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