18 Mar

Three Common Outdoor Lighting Mistakes

Take a look around Tampa Bay and you’ll see many homes and businesses with gorgeous and elaborate outdoor lighting setups. Seeing all that beauty may leave you itching to set something similar up at your own home, and we don’t blame you! Outdoor lighting is not only aesthetically pleasing but it also increases your property’s safety and security. However, setting up a well-designed outdoor lighting display isn’t as easy as it may seem. We’ve seen lots of different DIY setups over the years, some good and some very, very bad. In this post, we’ll go over the three most common outdoor lighting mistakes we see people make, along with ways you can avoid doing the same.

Not Hiring a Professional

We’ll go ahead and start off with the biggest mistake most people make when setting up their outdoor lighting – not hiring a professional. There’s a lot more to designing and installing outdoor lighting than just plugging in the string and draping it across the yard, but unfortunately we see a lot of DIYers do just that. Not only is having a bunch of cords lying around or cascading down the side of your home or porch unsightly, but it’s also dangerous. It would only take one pass with a lawnmower to completely destroy that power cord, and hopefully that’s the worst that happens. Do yourself a huge favor, skip the headache of doing it yourself, and leave outdoor lighting installation to the professionals. If you’re in Tampa Bay, you’ve got one of the best outdoor lighting installation companies in the country right at your doorstep…Decorating Elves. We’ve been lighting up Tampa Bay for over 20 years with jaw-dropping outdoor lighting displays, and we can turn your home or business into a little slice of twinkling paradise too!


Using Outdated Lights or Fixtures

Lighting mistake #2: So you found some outdoor lighting fixtures or bulbs for a great deal in the clearance section and think you’ve just scored big, huh? Think again. What you’ve probably found instead is an old model from years ago, far behind on power consumption, lacking in features, and ready to cause you some major problems. By spending a few extra dollars on the most updated equipment you can enjoy less energy usage, many more custom color and style options, and many more years of life.

Not Installing Timers

You’re going to get tired of turning your outdoor lighting on and off twice each day pretty quickly, so go ahead and save yourself from lighting mistake #3 and install automatic timers from the beginning. Once installed, all you’ll need to do is enjoy your beautiful lights when they spring to life every evening! Timers need to be monitored for issues and included in your yearly inspection by a professional (check out our Preventative Maintenance Program for everything you’ll need to keep your outdoor lighting running at peak performance), but it’s pretty easy to tell if they’re working correctly or not…do the lights turn on and off at the correct times? If you live in an area with Daylight Savings Time, you’ll also need to adjust the timers when the time changes.

illumicare timer for outdoor lighting


Outdoor Lighting Done Right in Tampa Bay

If you want a dazzling outdoor lighting display but aren’t really a Weekend Warrior, we’ve got you covered. Decorating Elves in Tampa Bay has done hundreds of stunning lighting displays all over the Gulf Coast and even across the country, so we know a thing or two about great outdoor lighting design and installation. For a free estimate on your outdoor lighting, outdoor audio, or holiday lighting needs, just give us a call at 727-474-2628 or contact us online to get scheduled.

01 Dec

The Purpose of Garden Lighting

Gardens are not just daytime retreats; they can transform into enchanting nightscapes with the right lighting. At Decorating Elves, we believe that garden lighting is an essential aspect of premium outdoor living, especially for residents in the Tampa Bay area who like to be outdoors all year long. This post discusses the various purposes of yard lighting and how it can enhance your home or business’ outdoor experience.

back garden lighting on a 2 story home with palms


Enhancing Beauty and Aesthetics

The primary purpose of garden lighting is to highlight the natural beauty of your landscape. By strategically placing lights, you can accentuate the shapes and textures of trees, plants, and architectural features, creating a dynamic and visually appealing space. Subtle lighting can bring out the colors of flowers and leaves, while dramatic illumination can cast intriguing shadows and silhouettes.

Increasing Functionality

Garden lighting extends the usability of your outdoor space beyond sunset. It allows for evening gatherings, quiet moments of relaxation, and safe nighttime navigation through paths and walkways. Well-lit gardens are more inviting, making your outdoor areas functional and enjoyable at any hour.

Improving Safety and Security

A well-lit garden deters potential intruders by eliminating dark hiding spots. It also ensures safety for homeowners and guests by illuminating paths, steps, and uneven surfaces, reducing the risk of trips and falls. Effective garden lighting provides a sense of security, making your outdoor space safer at night.

Setting the Mood

Lighting plays a crucial role in setting the mood of a garden. Soft, warm lights can create a cozy, tranquil atmosphere, while brighter, cooler lights can energize the space. With the right lighting, your garden can become a serene haven or a lively entertainment area, depending on your mood and occasion.

Highlighting Water Features

If your garden includes water features like fountains or ponds, lighting can enhance its appeal and create stunning visual effects. Illuminated water features become focal points, adding a sense of luxury and elegance to your garden.

water feature with garden lighting


Showcasing Art and Décor

Garden lighting can spotlight statues, sculptures, or other decorative elements, turning them into nighttime showpieces. This adds an artistic dimension to your garden, making it a gallery of your style and taste.

Energy Efficiency and Sustainability

Modern lighting, especially LED options, is energy-efficient and sustainable. It minimizes electricity consumption and reduces the need for frequent bulb replacements. This is not only cost-effective but also environmentally friendly.

The Decorating Elves Advantage

At Decorating Elves, we specialize in creating custom garden lighting designs that meet the unique needs and preferences of each client. Our team of experts ensures that every installation is both beautiful and functional, enhancing the safety, beauty, and enjoyment of your outdoor space.

We are just a call away for Tampa Bay property owners looking to transform their gardens into beautifully lit sanctuaries! Schedule an estimate for your garden lighting project today by calling 727-474-2628 or contacting us online.

24 Nov

Rebranding Brilliance: Permanent Outdoor Lighting ≠ Year-Round Outdoor Lighting

Welcome to the rebranding of outdoor illumination! At Decorating Elves, we’re all about clear communication with our customers, and today, we’re making a case for a terminology makeover. Say goodbye to the misleading and embrace the clarity – let’s explore why “Permanent Outdoor Lighting” is truly “Year-Round Outdoor Lighting”, and should be thought of as such.

The Evolution of Lighting Language

Commercial property with year round roofline lighting

Language evolves, and so should our terms for things that light up our lives. The phrase “Permanent Outdoor Lighting” might sound awesome, even too good to be true. That’s because it really may be. The word ‘permanent’ is defined as existing perpetually; everlasting, especially without significant change. Does that truly sound like a lighting fixture descriptor? We all know that something electrical- outdoors, exposed to the elements, powered every single night, battling squirrels, lawn mowers, and Uncle Buck’s questionable driving skills… isn’t thought of as “everlasting”. We expect it to fade and/or fail eventually.
Enter the more realistic term of “Year-Round Outdoor Lighting,” where versatility meets expertise.

  • Dynamic Design

    Outdoor spaces are not static, and neither should your lighting be. Year-round lighting allows for dynamic design changes, adapting to different seasons, holidays, and moods.

  • Adaptability in Action

    The beauty of year-round lighting lies in its adaptability. It’s not about being permanently stuck with one look – it’s about embracing change without sacrificing continuity.

  • Versatility Unleashed

    Year-round outdoor lighting opens doors to a world of possibilities. Switch up the ambiance for summer nights, fall festivities, winter wonderlands, and holidays, all with the same expertly designed fixtures.

  • Expertise in Transformation

    At Decorating Elves, we’re not just about putting up lights; we’re about crafting experiences. Year-round outdoor lighting showcases our expertise in creating lighting solutions that transform with the ebb and flow of time.

    Commercial property with year round roofline lighting

In the world of outdoor lighting, terminology matters. “Year-Round Outdoor Lighting” is not just a name change; it’s a declaration of our commitment to dynamic, expertly crafted, and versatile designs. So, let’s retire the term “Permanent Outdoor Lighting” and usher in the era of illumination that adapts, evolves, and continues to shine with brilliance throughout the seasons. Because at Decorating Elves, we believe your outdoor space deserves a lighting experience as vibrant and dynamic as you are.

15 Aug

20 Years of Outdoor Lighting Magic with Decorating Elves!

When it comes to enhancing the beauty and ambiance of our outdoor spaces, lighting plays a pivotal role. For the past two decades, Decorating Elves has been at the forefront of creating mesmerizing outdoor lighting displays using energy-efficient LED lights. In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of LED lights and how Decorating Elves has been transforming outdoor spaces into captivating wonderlands for the past 20 years.

This means we are perfectly positioned as seasoned experts in the wake of the phasing out of incandescent lights. The recent ban is leading to homeowners and commercial properties alike switching to LEDs. This article by Architectural Digest details the new law and what it means for you. Read on below for all the info on LED lights!

The Evolution of LED Lights

LED (Light Emitting Diode) technology has come a long way since its inception. Initially, it was limited to indicator lights and small displays. However, with significant advancements, LED lights have revolutionized the lighting industry, finding applications in various fields due to their exceptional energy efficiency and longevity.

Energy Efficiency: The Green Lighting Solution

One of the most remarkable benefits of LED lights is their energy efficiency. Compared to traditional incandescent bulbs, LED lights consume significantly less power while producing the same or even brighter illumination. This energy efficiency not only reduces electricity bills but also contributes to a greener environment by minimizing carbon emissions.

Decorating Elves recognized the potential of LED lights early on and has been using them extensively to create awe-inspiring outdoor lighting displays while reducing their clients’ environmental footprint.

Longevity: Lights That Stand the Test of Time

When it comes to outdoor lighting, longevity is a crucial factor. Traditional bulbs have a limited lifespan and require frequent replacements, which can be a costly and time-consuming affair. In contrast, LED lights have an impressive lifespan, lasting up to 20 times longer than traditional incandescent bulbs.

By incorporating LED lights into their designs, Decorating Elves ensures that their clients enjoy long-lasting, low-maintenance outdoor lighting solutions that continue to shine brightly for years to come.

Versatility in Design

LED lights offer immense flexibility in terms of design possibilities. Decorating Elves has harnessed this versatility to create stunning outdoor lighting displays that cater to various aesthetics and themes. Whether it’s a subtle and romantic ambiance or a vibrant and festive atmosphere, LED lights allow for an endless array of creative options.

From string lights delicately weaving through tree branches to smartly arranged path lights illuminating garden walkways, Decorating Elves crafts outdoor lighting arrangements that enhance the beauty and functionality of any outdoor space.

Safety and Security

Outdoor lighting serves more than just aesthetic purposes; it also plays a significant role in ensuring safety and security. Adequately illuminated outdoor spaces reduce the risk of accidents, deterring potential intruders, and enhancing visibility during nighttime activities.

Decorating Elves’ expert lighting designs prioritize safety while adding a touch of elegance to outdoor areas, allowing clients to enjoy their outdoor spaces confidently at any time of day or night.

Energy Cost Savings

LED lights not only last longer but also save a substantial amount of energy, translating into significant cost savings in the long run. By utilizing LED lights in their outdoor lighting projects, Decorating Elves has not only been able to create stunning displays but also helped their clients save on energy bills, making the investment in LED lighting a financially wise choice.

Over the past 20 years in outdoor lighting, Decorating Elves has been synonymous with transforming outdoor spaces into enchanting realms with the magic of LED lights. Their commitment to using energy-efficient and long-lasting LED lights has not only contributed to the beauty of their creations but also to the well-being of the environment.

As we move towards a more sustainable and eco-conscious future, Decorating Elves continues to lead the way by proving that outdoor lighting can be both mesmerizing and environmentally responsible. With their expertise and dedication, we can expect to witness many more decades of outdoor lighting brilliance, making the world a brighter and more beautiful place, one LED light at a time.

19 Jun

Enhance Your Outdoor Kitchen with Stunning Landscape Lighting

Creating an inviting and functional outdoor kitchen is a popular trend that brings people together to enjoy delicious meals and the beauty of nature. This may be why grills and grilling accessories are some of the most popular Father’s Day gifts! While designing your outdoor kitchen, it’s important not to overlook the impact of landscape lighting. Properly designed and strategically placed lighting can transform your outdoor kitchen into a captivating and functional space that you can enjoy both during the day and well into the night. In this blog, we will explore the importance of landscape lighting for outdoor kitchens and share some creative ideas to illuminate your outdoor culinary haven.

Safety and Functionality

Effective landscape lighting plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and functionality of your outdoor kitchen. Adequate illumination on pathways, steps, and cooking areas minimizes the risk of accidents, allowing you to move around freely and effortlessly. Consider installing task lighting above the grill, sink, and food preparation areas to ensure proper visibility during meal preparations, even after sunset. This way, you can cook with ease while keeping an eye on the food’s progress and ensuring everything is cooked to perfection.

Ambient Lighting for a Welcoming Atmosphere

Landscape lighting sets the mood and creates a warm, inviting ambiance in your outdoor kitchen. Choose lighting fixtures that complement the architectural style and design of your outdoor space. Soft and diffused lighting, such as string lights or lanterns, can create a cozy and intimate atmosphere for evening gatherings. Highlight your kitchen island or dining area with pendant lights or chandeliers to make them the focal points of your outdoor space. After 17 years in the business, Decorating Elves has designed lighting schemes for every look!

Accentuating the Landscape

Landscape lighting not only enhances the functionality of your outdoor kitchen but also allows you to showcase the surrounding landscape. Use well-placed lighting fixtures to illuminate trees, plants, and other natural elements, creating a visually appealing backdrop for your culinary adventures. Uplights can be strategically positioned to highlight beautiful shrubs or create dramatic shadows against walls. Path lights along garden beds or walkways can guide guests to your outdoor kitchen while adding a touch of elegance to the overall ambiance.

Color and Mood Lighting

For a unique and creative touch, consider incorporating color and mood lighting into your outdoor kitchen landscape design. LED lights are an excellent choice for this purpose, as they are energy-efficient and offer a wide range of color options. Decorating Elves specializes in low voltage LED lighting to save you money on energy consumption. Use color-changing LED strips or bulbs to transform the mood of your outdoor space with a simple adjustment of hues. You can match the lighting to the theme of your event or change it according to your mood, making your outdoor kitchen a versatile and dynamic entertainment area.

Smart Lighting Systems

Take your outdoor kitchen lighting to the next level by incorporating smart lighting systems. These systems allow you to control your lights remotely using your smartphone or voice commands. Adjust brightness levels, change colors, set timers, and create lighting schedules effortlessly. Additionally, some smart lighting systems can be integrated with other outdoor elements, such as music systems or security cameras, further enhancing your backyard experience.

Landscape lighting is an essential aspect of designing an outdoor kitchen that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. From ensuring safety and functionality to creating an inviting atmosphere, lighting can transform your outdoor space into a magical culinary haven. By inviting our expert over to design various lighting techniques and incorporate smart lighting systems, you can personalize your outdoor space and create an ambiance that matches your style and mood. So, illuminate your outdoor kitchen and enjoy delightful meals and unforgettable moments under the stars.

08 Jun

Summer Playtime Lighting Ideas for Your Family

Well lit children's play house and landscaping

The summer playtime season brings with it longer days and warmer weather, making it the perfect time for children to unleash their boundless energy and indulge in outdoor play. As the sun sets, extending playtime into the evening hours requires the right lighting setup to ensure safety and create a magical ambiance. In this blog post, we will explore creative lighting ideas to illuminate your backyard, transforming it into a captivating oasis for your kids’ summer adventures.

3 kids playing in sandbox

1. Fairy Lights Delight:

Fairy lights are a versatile and enchanting option for lighting up your backyard. String them across trees, along fences, or around pergolas to create a whimsical atmosphere. Opt for multicolored lights or stick to warm white hues for a soothing glow. These twinkling lights will add a touch of magic to your children’s playtime, making them feel like they’re in their very own wonderland.

2. Low Voltage LED Pathway Lights:

Illuminate pathways and walkways with Low Voltage LED lights. These eco-friendly and cost-effective options charge during the day and automatically turn on as dusk falls. Apart from providing safety and guidance, these lights also enhance the aesthetics of your backyard. Consider choosing pathway lights with fun shapes or colors to pique your kids’ interest.

3. Glow-in-the-Dark Accessories:

Incorporate glow-in-the-dark elements to add an element of surprise and excitement to your backyard play area. From glow-in-the-dark stepping stones to glowing orbs, there are numerous options available that will capture your children’s imagination. Charge these accessories under sunlight or artificial light, and watch them come to life when the sun goes down.

4. Colorful Spotlights:

Colorful spotlights can instantly transform your backyard into a vibrant playground. Install spotlights with adjustable colors and intensities to create different moods for various playtime activities. Set the lights to a soothing blue for a calming effect or opt for vibrant colors to spark your children’s creativity. The versatility of colorful spotlights allows you to adapt the lighting to suit different occasions and themes.

5. Campfire-inspired Glow:

Create the cozy ambiance of a campfire by installing flameless LED candles or lanterns. Arrange them around a seating area or play tent to give your kids a sense of adventure and make them feel like they’re on a camping trip. These safe alternatives to traditional candles provide a soft, flickering glow that adds warmth and charm to the setting.

Lighting up your backyard for your kids’ summer playtime allows them to extend their outdoor adventures well into the evening hours. By incorporating fairy lights, LED pathway lights, glow-in-the-dark accessories, colorful spotlights, and campfire-inspired glows, you can create a dreamy oasis that will ignite their imagination and make their playtime truly magical. With the right lighting setup, your backyard will become the go-to destination for endless summer fun!

Remember to prioritize safety by ensuring all electrical connections are weatherproof and that the lighting doesn’t pose any tripping hazards. Enjoy the warm summer nights as your children embark on countless adventures in their illuminated wonderland with a landscape lighting design by Decorating Elves.

Well lit children's play house and landscaping

 

01 Jun

Summer Storm Season: Safety and Surreal Beauty in Illumination

As the temperature rises and the days grow longer, summer storms bring a unique beauty and energy to our lives. However, with the arrival of storm season today, it’s crucial to ensure that our outdoor spaces are both safe and enchanting. In this post, we’ll explore the significance of landscape lighting during the summer storm season and how Decorating Elves can help by implementing appropriate lighting solutions. We can work with you to transform your outdoor spaces into captivating havens, no matter the weather.

storm cloud over homes on water

1. Safety First, Lighting as a Protective Measure

When it comes to summer storms, safety should always be a top priority. Adequate lighting can help prevent accidents and ensure that your outdoor areas remain safe during inclement weather. Consider installing pathway lights to illuminate walkways, stairs, and potential hazards. Low-voltage LED lights (one of our specialities) are a cost-effective and energy-efficient choice, offering bright illumination while consuming less power. Additionally, motion-activated floodlights can provide added security by deterring unwanted intruders during the stormy nights.

2. Enhancing the Beauty of Your Landscape

Despite the occasional stormy weather, summer is a time when outdoor gatherings, barbecues, and relaxing evenings with loved ones become more frequent. Well-planned landscape lighting can enhance the beauty of your outdoor spaces and create a magical atmosphere even during stormy evenings.

a. Accentuating Key Features: Use uplights or spotlights to highlight unique elements of your landscape, such as tall trees, sculptures, or architectural details. This not only adds a touch of elegance but also draws attention away from potential storm-related imperfections.

b. Festive String Lights: String lights can transform any outdoor area into a whimsical wonderland. Hang them across patios, pergolas, or even in trees to create a warm and inviting ambiance. Opt for weatherproof and durable string lights to ensure they withstand the elements.

c. Silhouettes in the Rain: Rainy weather can create stunning visual effects when paired with proper lighting. Experiment with backlighting or silhouette effects by placing lights strategically behind rain-soaked objects or plant life. This creates a surreal and captivating atmosphere, bringing out the unique charm of summer storms.

3. Resilient Lighting Solutions

When selecting lighting fixtures for your outdoor spaces, we understand what is crucial to withstand the elements. Here are a few resilient lighting solutions ideal for the summer storm season:

a. Weatherproof Fixtures: We only invest in fixtures designed explicitly for outdoor use and those with high IP (Ingress Protection) ratings, indicating their resistance to water and dust. These fixtures will keep your landscape lighting functioning flawlessly even in heavy downpours.

b. Underground Lighting: Pathway lights or recessed fixtures that are installed below ground level are not only visually appealing but also less susceptible to damage from storms. They remain protected while providing illumination to guide you and your guests safely through your outdoor spaces.

c. Timer Controls and Smart Lighting: Consider installing timer controls or smart lighting systems that allow you to program your landscape lighting to turn on and off automatically. This feature ensures your lights operate efficiently, even if you’re away or caught off guard by an unexpected summer storm.

Summer storms bring a unique charm to our lives, especially here in Florida. With the right landscape lighting, you can fully embrace the enchanting atmosphere they create. By prioritizing safety, enhancing the beauty of your outdoor spaces, and selecting resilient lighting solutions, you can ensure that your landscape lighting stands strong during the storm season. Let your outdoor areas shine bright, rain or shine, and make the most of this captivating time of year. The design team at Decorating Elves is happy to meet with you to address any concerns you may have or improvements you’d like to make. We look forward to connecting with you.

15 Apr

Landscape Lighting Planning for Beauty and Security

If you are looking to enhance the beauty and security of your home’s outdoor spaces, adding landscape lighting can be a great way to achieve your goals. However, once you start looking into all the options out there, you may quickly become overwhelmed. Don’t let frustration with landscape lighting discourage you from having the property of your dreams! In this post, we’ll give you some tips to help you plan your outdoor lighting project.  Read More

26 Aug

8 Fall Landscape Lighting Ideas

With fall approaching comes the promise of (slightly) lower temperatures and plenty of outdoor entertainment opportunities, making it a perfect time to change up your landscape lighting design. In this post, we’ll go over our top 8 ideas for a fall landscape lighting makeover and touch on routine maintenance needs in the fall.

1. Get Thematic

Fall offers several occasions to jazz up your lawn. Halloween and Thanksgiving are the two most notable holidays, but Veterans Day and even Oktoberfest also give some unique chances to decorate and show off your holiday flair. Read More

10 Jul

Update Your Home’s Curb Appeal with Color-Changing Landscape Lighting

Whether you’re renovating, getting ready to sell, or just looking for an easy way to improve your outdoor spaces, now is the time to add color-changing LED landscape lighting to your home. Landscape lighting has always added elegance to a home’s exterior, but with color-changing LED landscape lighting, we can turn your outdoor spaces into an experience.

Updated landscape lighting, masterfully done in Tampa Bay by the team at Decorating Elves, impacts four key elements on your property: Read More