12/06/2022
Holiday Lights? Check Your Electrical System First

Residential home covered with holiday lighting and seasonal Christmas display.

If you’re planning to decorate your home with holiday lights this year, it’s important to make sure that your electrical system can handle the load. While a stunning light display may be on your wish list, if your home’s electrical system isn’t up to the task, you could be putting yourself and your family at risk. In fact, the most common cause of house fires during the holidays is overloaded electrical circuits. To avoid this hazard, it’s important to assess your electrical system before you start stringing those lights.

Understanding how many lights are on a 15amp circuit or how many LED lights are on a 15amp circuit will help ensure you and your family stay safe and your lighting display looks merry and bright. Here are some tips on how to review your electrical system and determine if you need an electrical panel upgrade or, in some cases, an electrical panel replacement.

Understanding Circuits

The first step in assessing your electrical system is to understand how home electrical circuits work. A typical circuit has a breaker box that connects to an electrical panel, which distributes power throughout the home through a series of wires. These wires are connected to different electrical outlets and devices in the house, such as lights, appliances, and other electronics. The typical residential home has 15-20 individual circuits, each of which is capable of supplying up to 1,800 watts (about 15 amps) of power. If you are planning a particularly elaborate light display, it’s important to know how many lights you can safely connect to each circuit in order to avoid overloading it.

Electrician checking circuit panel in a residential home.

Check Your Circuit Breakers and Rating

Once you understand how circuits work, the next step is to inspect your electrical panel and breaker box. This will give you a sense of how many circuits your home currently supports and how much power it can handle. This inspection should be one of the first things you do to prepare for your holiday lights display. One way to do this is to look at the circuit rating plates on your electrical panel. These plates indicate how much power each circuit can handle, both in terms of how many watts and how many amps. If your holiday lights require more power than your home’s circuits are rated for, then you may need to upgrade or replace your electrical panel. Another important consideration is how old your home’s electrical wiring and electrical panel are. Over time, the materials used in these systems can break down or become corroded, which can lead to overheating and potential fire hazards. If you have any doubts about how old your electrical panels and wiring are, it’s best to consult with a professional electrician who can assess the condition of these systems and recommend any necessary upgrades or replacements.

Check Wire Gauge

In addition to checking how many circuits your electrical panel can support, it’s also important to consider the gauge of the wires that are supplying power to those circuits. The thicker the wire, the more power it can handle, so if you have older or thinner wiring in your home, this could be another sign that you need to upgrade or replace your electrical panel. To check the gauge of your wiring, you can either consult with a professional electrician or do some research online. You may also want to consider upgrading your wiring if you are planning to add more lights or other decorations that could potentially overload your system.

Holiday light hanging by an outdoor GCFI outlet with timer attached.

Check Light Wattage

To determine how many holiday lights your home electrical system can accommodate, you’ll need to know how many watts each string of lights consumes. Typically, a 15-amp circuit is designed to handle 1,800 watts of load, or about 30 standard holiday light strings. If you are using LED lights, keep in mind that these typically use less power than traditional incandescent lights and may be able to accommodate more strings on a single circuit. But in any case, how many LED lights you can support on a single 15-amp circuit will depend on the specific wattage of each light string. No matter which type of lights you are using, if you are planning to use a lot of lighting, you may need to upgrade your electrical panel to a higher amperage.

Check Light Manufacturers’ Requirements

In addition to checking how many watts each light string consumes, it’s also important to look at the manufacturer’s requirements for how many strings of lights can be connected together. Some manufacturers recommend that holiday lights are never connected in series (or “daisy-chained”), while others only allow a certain number of strings to be connected in this way. Different types of lights will have different recommendations, so be sure to read any accompanying instructions that come with your lights or research the manufacturer’s recommendations for your specific type of lights online.

Get Professional Assistance

Ultimately, the best way to determine how many holiday lights your home electrical system can safely support is to consult with a professional electrician. They will be able to assess your home’s wiring, circuit breaker rating, and electrical panel capacity and recommend any upgrades or replacements that may be needed to ensure the safety of your lighting display this holiday season. At Your Holiday Lights, we are dedicated to helping you create a beautiful holiday light display while ensuring the safety of your home and family. With the help of our qualified service technicians, you can enjoy your holiday lights with peace of mind that they are properly supported by your home’s electrical system. Visit us online to learn more or to request a consultation.

12/06/2022
Holiday Lighting – How to Decorate Your Trees This Holiday

Outdoor tree decorated with holiday lights, a gold star, and covered with snow. Christmas is a time for family, friends, and of course, festive decorations. But creating an impressive outdoor holiday lights display that includes your trees can be a challenge. If you’ve done some searching online, chances are you’ve found plenty of products available to purchase. But most don’t offer decorating tips, not to mention the design steps required to create the outdoor holiday trees of your dreams. In this guide, we walk you through a step-by-step design process for decorating your outdoor trees for the holidays. From safety to landscape preparation, as well as answer questions like, “how many Christmas lights do I need?” Planning out your display is the key to a safe, successful, and festive holiday display.

Start with Safety

When planning to decorate outdoor trees for the holidays, safety should be your first consideration. There are critical safety guidelines to follow when using lights outdoors. For example, before deciding how many outdoor Christmas lights to put on your trees, it’s important to ensure that you have sufficient electrical power and the correct fuse ratings to support the electrical demand. This is especially important for outdoor tree lighting, as some trees may be located far from the house. It’s also extremely important to use lights, extension cords, and power boxes that are rated for outdoor use. Not only will outdoor-rated products be more rugged and weather resistant, but they are built to handle the electrical draw of many lights. This will help you answer the question, “how many Christmas lights do I need?” Equally important is making sure that you have a plan to safely install lights on your outdoor trees. For most people, this will require using ladders. But ladders pose safety risks unless used carefully and correctly. The safest way to install lights on your outdoor trees is to hire a professional holiday lighting service. But if you plan to do it yourself, make sure you take the time to learn proper ladder safety techniques and always have a spotter when working with outdoor lights. Also, never allow children to climb or play on ladders or to play near a ladder while you are using it. By starting with safety, you can get your outdoor holiday light display planning off to the right start! Here is a quick summary of the things you need to do before you start decorating:

  • Check to ensure your lights, cords, and accessories are rated for outdoor use.
  • Determine how many feet of Christmas lights for tree(s).
  • Confirm the electrical circuits you intend to use can handle the additional load. Make sure you have a ladder high enough to do the job (never use the top rung of a ladder).
  • Follow proper ladder safety techniques (always have a spotter).
  • Consider hiring a professional holiday lighting service.

Determine Display Size

Once you have safety covered, it’s time to think about the size of your outdoor holiday display. The most important factor here is how much of your home’s exterior you plan to decorate. Are you just planning to light your exterior trees, or do you want to decorate other landscaping elements and/or your home’s exterior? Knowing the scope of your display beforehand is the key to effective planning for your outdoor holiday lights display. In this way, you can better determine how many Christmas lights you will need to create the effect you want.

Less Can Be More

When it comes to outdoor holiday lighting, there is a common misconception that the more lights you use, the better. It’s easy to get excited and a little carried away during the planning phase. This can lead many people to buy more outdoor lights than they need or can use, resulting in an outdoor holiday display that is over the top and tacky. Too many lights and decorations can create a confusing visual effect, overwhelming viewers in an unpleasant way. So, how many lights should you put on a Christmas tree outside? Well, that will depend on how big the tree is, how high you want to extend the lights, and what type of lighting effect you want to create. How many lights for a 6ft tree versus a 10ft tree may be different or the same depending on how you want to string the lights. To make sure that your holiday lights inspire awe, not annoyance, try to focus on creating an exterior display that is tastefully lit but not over the top. Related Topic: Can You Have Too Many Holiday Decorations?

Pick a Theme

Choosing a holiday lighting theme is another crucial step in outdoor holiday tree decorating. A theme can help bring cohesiveness and visual interest to your outdoor holiday display. Plus, by choosing a theme, you can easily tie in other outdoor decorations and landscaping elements to create a unified outdoor decorating look. Some popular outdoor holiday lighting themes include:

  • Classic white and green or white and red outdoor decoration, with minimal pops of brighter colors and festive outdoor lighting.
  • Rustic outdoor decorating, with outdoor lights paired with lanterns and other rustic elements.
  • Retro outdoor holiday decorations, with vintage or mid-century style decorations.
  • Modern outdoor holiday decorations, with sleek outdoor lighting and contemporary decor elements.

Visually Connect Your Internal Decorations

As you plan your outdoor lighting and theme, take the time to create a visual connection between the outdoor decorations and the interior decorations. For example, consider using the same theme for both your indoor and outdoor Christmas trees. Another way to add spectacle and drama to your holiday lights display is to position your indoor tree so that it is visible through a window and then time your lights so that when the indoor tree’s lights are on, the exterior lights are off. By creating a visual connection between your indoor and outdoor lights, you can give your home a polished, well-thought-out look that will delight guests and visitors.

Prep Trees

Palm trees decorated with brightly colored holiday lights

Once you have a theme and your indoor and outdoor holiday displays planned out, it’s time to get ready to decorate! Before you start buying and wrapping lights, however, it’s important to get your trees and landscaping ready for your holiday display. This means making sure that outdoor trees and shrubs are pruned back, and fallen leaves and other debris are removed from your yard, gutters, and other outdoor spaces. Be sure to use proper safety around ladders and landscaping tools, and always wear gloves, safety goggles, and other protective gear when working with power tools and other landscaping equipment.

Hire a Professional Service

After following these design steps, you may realize that planning and carrying out an impressive outdoor holiday display requires considerable time and effort. It takes time, preparation, and proper safety measures to pull it all off. It can also be hard to determine exactly how many feet of Christmas lights you need for each tree and how to connect your exterior lights safely to avoid the risk of electrical overload or fire. The good news is that avoiding these potential problems is easy when you call Your Holiday Lights! We can help you design and install the custom outdoor holiday light display you’ve always wanted, all without the hassle and hazards of doing it yourself! Visit us online to learn more and to schedule your design consultation today!

11/18/2022
Can You Have Too Many Holiday Decorations?

house with too many christmas lights

Is it possible to have too many holiday decorations? In a word, yes!

For many people, holiday decorations are an important part of our most treasured celebrations. But having too many holiday decorations can be a serious problem. Not only can excessive decorations create safety hazards, but they can also drain your time and energy as you struggle to set them up and take them down. They can also lead to issues with storage space and create visual clutter that takes away from your holiday décor and the enjoyment of individual pieces. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the issues of having too many holiday decorations and provide tips on how to reduce the number of decorations that may currently be cluttering your home.

Safety Concerns

One of the biggest issues with having too many holiday decorations is the increased risk of fire or other safety hazards. So, what happens if you string too many holiday lights together? A house filled with multiple strings of lights, overloaded power strips, and flammable items such as dried-out live trees or garlands can become a potential hazard. Therefore, it’s important to follow all safety guidelines for your decorations and not exceed the recommended number of lights or other items on a single power source.

Another serious safety hazard related to holiday decorations is the risk of injury from ladders. According to the American National Standards Institute, there are more than 300 ladder-related deaths and over 130,000 emergency room visits related to ladders each year, as well as 2,000 ladder-related injuries every day. When attempting to hang multiple strings of lights or heavy decorations, it’s important to know and follow proper ladder safety. Using a sturdy ladder and having someone there to spot you can prevent accidents.

Time Drain

In addition to safety concerns, having too many holiday decorations can also lead to an overwhelming time commitment. Ask yourself: how much time do I spend hauling out and packing away decorations each year? If your answer is more than a day or two, you may have too many holiday decorations!

The process of setting up and taking down all of your decorations can quickly become a major chore, especially if your decorations are spread throughout your entire home. This can also lead to added stress during a time that is supposed to be enjoyable and relaxing.

Instead of trying to fill every corner of your house with holiday cheer, consider focusing on just one or two areas where you can really make an impact with your decorations. Another option would be to hire a professional service to handle some of the set-up and take-down for you. This will not only save you time but can also create a more cohesive and enjoyable holiday display.

Overburdened Storage Space

In addition to the time commitment, having too many holiday decorations can also lead to storage issues. Many people struggle with finding adequate space for their holiday decorations in between seasons and may even need to rent a storage unit just for these items. With holiday decorations taking up so much closet space, where will you store other essential household items?

Crowded or improper storage of holiday decorations can become a serious safety hazard. For this reason, if you have too many decorations to safely and neatly store in your home, it may be time to downsize your holiday decor. When deciding how many decorations to keep or purchase, consider their size and whether or not they can be neatly stored in a designated area of your home.

Visual Clutter

house with cluttered holiday lights

While there is nothing wrong with wanting to bring the holiday spirit into your home, too many decorations can create visual clutter and take away from the overall aesthetic of your space. Rather than overwhelming a room with multiple small trinkets or knick-knacks, consider choosing a few larger statement pieces that will have more impact and be less cluttered.

When shopping for holiday decorations, think about the overall design and style of your home and choose pieces that will complement it rather than clash with it. Remember: less is often more when it comes to achieving a cohesive and visually pleasing holiday display.

 How to Reduce Decorations

If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed by your holiday decorations, there are a few steps you can take to downsize.

  • Start by taking inventory of all of your decorations and decide which ones you actually use each year. If you have decorations you rarely use, it’s probably time to let them go.
  • The same thing goes for decorations that don’t match your home decor or holiday decorating theme. If you have items you are hanging on to but don’t coordinate with your other decor, consider donating or selling them.
  • If you like to change up your holiday decorations year to year, try rotating different sets of decorations each year to keep things fresh. This can help you avoid buying new ones every season.
  • Finally, next time you are shopping for holiday decorations, only purchase items that have a clear purpose or meaning and will complement your existing collection.

Hire a Professional Service

If you find yourself struggling with the thought of reducing your holiday decorations, consider hiring a professional holiday decorating service. A professional decorating service can handle all the set-up and take-down for you, freeing you up to enjoy the holidays. Hiring a service means you don’t have to worry about the takedown and storage of holiday decorations (what a great holiday gift). They can also offer expert advice on how to create a cohesive, dazzling, and enjoyable holiday display without overwhelming your home.


While it may seem counterintuitive to hire someone else for holiday decorating, remember that the holidays are a time for relaxation and enjoyment. By outsourcing some of the work, you can focus on what truly matters during this special time of year (time with family and friends).


At Your Holiday Lights, we have the holiday decorating solutions you need to reclaim your time, your storage space, and your enjoyment of the holiday season! Visit our website to contact us and to learn more about our quality holiday lighting services.

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.

11/04/2022
Holiday Lighting – How to Create a Memorable Display

christmas lighting decoration

When it comes to holiday home light displays, there are plenty of decisions to make and products to choose from. For example, LED holiday lights, traditional incandescent bulbs, even animated light displays in all colors and sizes are available everywhere you turn. But when it comes to creating a holiday light display that will really wow the neighborhood, it’s important to take the time to plan out your design. Otherwise, your home may end up looking like a hodge-podge of holiday decor instead of the breathtaking light show you really want.

To create a memorable display of holiday lighting, read on to learn some of the top design tips from the holiday lighting pros.

Reduce the Number of Colors

One common mistake that many homeowners make is using too many different colors in their holiday light displays. That bright riot of color may have been all the rage decades ago, but multicolored lights are definitely a tired way to decorate today’s more modern homes.

Instead, experts recommend sticking to one or two complementary colors. This will create a more modern and visually appealing look.

Reduce Flashing

Another mistake that can make your holiday lights look outdated is using too many twinkling or flashing lights. These types of lights may have been popular in the past, but they can be distracting and even a bit dizzying for onlookers.

Instead, opt for more solid or steady lighting options to create a more sophisticated display. If you really want a bit of twinkle, limit it to just one area or section of the display.

Match Colors to Your Home’s Exterior

Another pro-designer tip is that your holiday lights should complement, not clash with, the exterior of your home. Before you decide on colors, take a look at your roof and siding to see what shades will work best with those hues. If your house is primarily neutral tones, consider using blue or white lights for a frosty winter feel. For a red brick house, warm colors like red or golden lights will complement the exterior.

Different Colors for Home and Landscape

Make sure to also consider the color of any landscaping or shrubs in your display design. The pros suggest using different colors for your home’s exterior lights and any lighting in the landscaping. This helps create visual interest and allows each aspect of the display to stand out on its own.

For example, you could use white lights on your house and then opt for blue LED holiday lights in your shrubs or trees for a beautiful wintery look.

Light Pathways

Don’t forget about lighting up pathways and walkways leading to your front door. This not only adds a charming touch, but also increases safety for guests and visitors during the holiday season. LED holiday pathway lights are a great option as they are long-lasting and energy efficient. Plus, they come in a variety of colors to coordinate with your overall holiday light display. Pro tip: Match your pathway lights to the lights on your house to create a visually stunning entrance.

Interior – Exterior Light Coordination

Your holiday lights shouldn’t just be limited to the outside of your home. Coordinating some interior holiday lighting can add an extra touch of festivity for any holiday gatherings or parties. For example, consider matching the color of your interior tree lights to the color of your exterior landscaping lights.

LED string lights are a simple option for adding some holiday cheer both indoors and outdoors, and they come in a variety of colors and styles to fit any decor. Plus, LED lights use less energy and have a longer lifespan than traditional holiday lighting options.

Get Professional Assistance

Now that you know how to create a truly memorable holiday lighting display, it’s time to start designing! Of course, even simple holiday light designs can get a bit overwhelming. There’s just so much to coordinate and so many decisions to make!

For anyone looking to really take your holiday light display to the next level, consider hiring a professional holiday light installation company. The expert holiday lighting installers at Your Holiday Lights can help you with everything from custom design and installation to maintenance and takedown after the holidays are over. With help from the pros, it’s easy to take the stress and hassle out of creating a stunning holiday light display!

Contact us today to learn more and to start designing the best holiday light display your home has ever had!

11/30/2021
Holiday Window Decorations – Have a Master Plan and a Budget

Little girl in a Santa hat rejoices as she sticks a Christmas snowflake sticker on her window at home.

There is plenty of information online if you are looking for holiday decoration ideas for your windows. However, there is not much out there to explain how to pull it off without pulling your hair out in the process. Decorating your windows for the holidays can be a fun activity, but without a master plan and budget, things can quickly turn into a project you regret taking on. In this article we will review how a little planning can go a long way with helping you create a cheery holiday window display everyone can enjoy.  

Start with a Holiday Window Decorating Plan 

  • Holiday Decorating Idea for Windows: Start with a Theme  

Creating individual scenes for each window is fine, but planning a design that uses several windows to connect a central theme will have a bigger impact. And remember, your windows are just one part of your holiday canvas. You can use the entire house to tie it into your window display. For example, you could create a winter wonderland scene on your windows and use lighted snowmen in the front yard to extend the scene even further. Or place Santa and his reindeer on your roof and decorate your windows with Santa’s helper, the elves. To top off your masterpiece, your holiday lights should use colors from your overall theme to bring your masterpiece together. 

  • Determine Your Decorating Budget 

Everybody loves a cheerful, elaborate holiday displays, but when you add up all the cost, some displays can get expensive. However, there are a few ways to create impressive holiday displays without breaking your holiday budget—it just takes a little extra planning. Here are some suggestions on how to break up your holiday decorating budget: 

    • Window display 
    • Lawn decorations 
    • Outdoor lights 
    • Indoor lights 
    • Roof decorations 
    • Accessories and supplies 
    • Energy costs to power your displays 
    • Divvy Up the Duties  

If you have an elaborate display planned that includes holiday window decorations, it’s better to make it a team effort. Have your family and friends help. Decide who’s responsible for what up front. Focus on each person’s strengths. If there’s an artist in the family, have them focus on window painting. If you have a tech guru, put them in charge of the lights prep, and so on.  

  • Remember Maintenance  

The best holiday displays require a little upkeep and maintenance. If you have many strands of holiday lights hung on your gutters or roof, you’ll need to keep those areas clear of snow, ice, and debris. You’ll also need to change any dimming or burnt-out bulbs. If you have a window display involving plants or fruit, you may have to change them out periodically to keep the décor looking fresh. This doesn’t mean you’ll have to babysit your display constantly. Just keep an eye on it and check it every few days. You’re putting a lot of time and effort into creating this holiday display, so you want it to last all season looking just as spectacular as it did when you finished. 

  • Incorporate Outdoor Lighting into Your Holiday Window Decorations 

Outdoor lighting can really accentuate creative holiday window decorations. There are so many options available: round bulbs, teardrop bulbs, twinkle, dangle, snowflake—the choices are almost endless! You could even have your lights timed to sync up with holiday music. This could get a bit complicated, so you may want to enlist some help from professionals.  

Hire a Professional to Help 

Decorating the exterior of your house and windows can really help create a festive holiday mood that family, friends and neighbors will enjoy. However, putting up, taking down and storing all those decorations does take time. And with all the other things you have to do to prepare for the holidays, you may not have the time to get it all done. Fortunately, there are companies that can take care of your all your holiday decorations and lighting for you. The trained professionals at Your Holiday Lights are experts when it comes bringing your dream holiday display to life. We can setup, take down and store all your holiday decorations. This means you can put your holiday spirit on full display, and have time to enjoy them too! Call us today at 888.311.8882 of visit us online to schedule an appointment. 

11/15/2021
Prepping Your House for the Season – Your Holiday Project Checklist

 

The holiday season is upon us so it’s time to start preparing for the festivities, but with all the hustle and bustle of the season, where and how do you begin? Don’t worry, we have some tips to help you start and stay on track as you cross the important things off your holiday prep checklist. 

Create a Holiday Checklist  

Your first order of business is to create a holiday checklist. Lists are a great way to make sure you don’t forget any important tasks as the season gets busier and busier. Once you’ve written out every task, you’ll have a better idea of how to budget and allocate your time. You might even be surprised by how quickly you can check off some of the simpler items to complete. If a handwritten list seems too tedious and old school, there are plenty of apps you can download on your phone that will make compiling a holiday checklist even easier. Once you have the list on your phone, checking off items you’ve completed requires just a tap of your finger. Whichever way you choose, it’s satisfying to see those completed items come off your holiday prep checklist—as you prep and organize your home for the season. 

Time Management Is Your Friend 

A great way to cut down on the inevitable holiday prep stress is to create a timeline that coordinates with your holiday checklist. Timelines are a great way to manage the time you have available to prepare your home for dinners, parties, shopping, wrapping or whatever else the holidays have in store. Create a calendar, along with individual tasks you’ll need to complete to meet your goals. Figure out the number of days and the amount of time you think you’ll need for cleaning, shopping, decorating, and so on. Then allocate the necessary days and time in your schedule to get each task completed. This is where managing your time effectively comes into play. In order to stay on track and focused on the tasks at hand, it’s important to minimize distractions (don’t spend an hour on your phone when you should be cleaning) and block out your schedule so family and friends know you’re busy. Once you see your checklist laid out and organized in calendar form, it can seem less intimidating and overwhelming. And remember, there’s no shame in asking for professional help. There are plenty of resources available to get those items on your list completed. For example, why not hire someone to help clean the interior and exterior of your windows (one of the most overlooked areas of holiday prep). Once you have your windows sparkling clean, you can focus on the rest of the house. The pros at Molly Maid can help you prepare the inside of your home for holiday guest, and if you need help getting the outside looking just right for that holiday party, Window Genie is ready to help you get it all done. 

Start at the Top of Your Checklist for Every Holiday Party 

One of the most daunting tasks is hanging holiday lights. This task will go a lot smoother if you have a clean, blank canvas to work with. A clean, dry roof makes the best surface for holiday light hanging. Roof cleaning can be quite a time-consuming and dangerous job, which can be even more dangerous when the weather turns cold. This is one job where hiring a professional is well worth the cost. However, if you do decide to tackle cleaning your roof, be sure to put safety first. Use a sturdy ladder, durable work gloves, and have someone outside spotting you while you’re on the roof. Never work on the roof while home alone. If you plan on hanging lights on your gutters, be sure they’re clean as well. Clogged gutters mixed with electricity can cause damage or even a fire. 

Clean Windows  

If you want to dazzle your guests with your holiday lights display, be sure your windows are clean and your home’s exterior is in great shape. Nothing puts a damper on pretty twinkle lights like dirty, grimy front windows. Clean, streak-free windows give your festive lights that extra ‘wow factor.’ In fact, clean glass helps reflect the sparkle of those twinkling light! 

Prepping Decorations for Display 

Do you know where your holiday decorations are stored? Are they in good condition? Do any of them need to be repaired? If you don’t know the answers to these questions, be sure to put ‘inventory and check decorations’ near the top of your holiday checklist. This goes for holiday lights as well. There’s nothing as frustrating as spending hours hanging holiday lights only to find out half of them don’t light up when you plug them in (Ughhhhh!). The easiest way to ensure every set of lights you hang is working properly is to untangle and plug them in before they go on your house. This makes replacing any damaged or broken bulbs or strands of light a lot easier. 

Get Help Checking Things Off Your List 

The holidays should be a time of fun, festivities and celebration, but they can also be stressful and overwhelming when you’re struggling to get everything on your holiday list done on time. You can take a lot of the stress and worry out of this holiday season by hiring some pros to help you get your holiday checklist completed. The pros at Window Genie can help prep your home exterior for the holidays. And when you’re ready to dazzle your family, friends and neighbors with an amazing holiday light display, the lighting pros at Your Holiday Lights are ready to make it happen. They can help create a custom holiday display that reflects your holiday spirit, then take it all down and pack it away until next year. Now that sounds like the recipe for a happy holiday! 

11/06/2020
How to Get Your Holiday Shopping Done Safely This Year

It goes without saying that 2020 has been a challenging year. Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, we’ve had to change how we work, learn, socialize, and even shop. Are you planning to skip the in-person shopping spree this Black Friday? Thanks to numerous online shopping options and other creative solutions, you don’t have to miss out on the season’s best deals. Here’s how the retail industry has pivoted to make Christmas shopping safer in 2020. Continue reading “How to Get Your Holiday Shopping Done Safely This Year”