LED Lighting Archives - Decorating Elves

19 Apr

Outdoor Lighting Upgrades for Summer Entertaining

As the temperature slowly creeps back up, Tampa Bay residents are pulling back the winter shades, dusting off the grills, and getting ready for long evenings with great friends. Here in Florida, the backyard is a gathering place for meals, celebrations, and casual hangouts all summer long, so it’s important for yours to look its very best! Upgrade your outdoor space this year with gorgeous outdoor lighting designed and installed by Tampa Bay’s premier outdoor lighting contractor – Decorating Elves. In this post, we’ll go over some of our favorite outdoor lighting upgrades to take your yard from boring to bombastic with outdoor lighting upgrades that will wow even the most discerning of house guests (in-laws included!).

LED Upgrades for Efficiency and Longevity

If you haven’t made the switch to LED outdoor lighting yet, this is your sign that it’s time. LED lighting is a popular choice for outdoor lighting solutions due to its energy efficiency and long life span. Slash your energy bills by transitioning to LED bulbs for all your outdoor lighting needs, from landscape lighting to accent lighting to security lighting. LED offers a full range of colors, allows you to adjust the brightness in a flash, and stays cool to limit fire hazards. If you only make one outdoor lighting upgrade this year, this is the one it should be!

Smart Outdoor Lighting Systems

Control your entire outdoor lighting setup from your phone, tablet, or even smart speaker with a fully-integrated smart outdoor lighting system. This amazing technology allows home and business owners more control than ever before, changing the mood and ambience with just a command. Dim the lights for an intimate home date night or bring the funk to your dance party with multicolor lights that flow with the music – it’s all at your fingertips with smart outdoor lighting systems from Decorating Elves!

Decorative Fixtures for Personality and Charm

Outdoor lighting fixtures have come a long way from the boring shield covers of the past. Make your outdoor lighting system as unique as your personality with a huge variety of decorative lighting fixtures now available for homes and businesses. String lights, lanterns, and candle fixtures are all popular choices for Tampa Bay residents, but the possibilities are really endless. Just a quick search online for decorative outdoor lighting fixtures will reveal the options available, giving your imagination plenty of room to run with a design idea that’s all your own.

Security Lighting for Peace of Mind

Another must-have upgrade for your outdoor lighting system is security lighting. Many home and business owners focus on just the aesthetics of their outdoor lighting design but forget to consider how they and their guests will comfortably navigate their property, leading to dark areas and unsafe passages. Don’t fall victim to this common oversight…prioritize adding adequate security lighting to all your entryways, pathways, and gathering spaces. This will give extra visibility to make you and your guests safer, more comfortable, and less vulnerable to crimes of opportunity.

Lighting + Audio: A Match Made in Heaven

Go for the gold this summer with an outdoor lighting and outdoor audio combo system that will have the neighbors vying to find out how you did it! Forget the portable Bluetooth speakers and instead go with a permanently installed, high-quality outdoor audio system that will add gorgeous music to your entertaining spaces without making space for a bulky, staticy speaker. Let our team help you expertly place your audio system for perfect acoustics, covering your yard in a blanket of sound that will make you want to stay outside all the time!

Upgrade to Tampa Bay’s Best Outdoor Lighting Contractor – Decorating Elves

Summer in Tampa Bay offers the perfect backdrop for outdoor entertaining. Upgrading your outdoor lighting not only enhances the beauty and functionality of your space but also extends the hours you can enjoy with friends and family under the stars. Upgrade to LEDs, transition to a smart system, add decorative fixtures for charm and personality, level up safety with security lighting, and add an outdoor audio system to round out the perfect outdoor experience. For more information on how Decorating Elves can turn your backyard into a little piece of paradise, or to schedule an estimate for your outdoor lighting upgrades, call us at 727-474-2628 or contact us online.

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.

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.

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.

08 Jun

Summer Playtime Lighting Ideas for Your Family

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.

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.

11 Feb

5 Benefits of Low-Voltage Lights

Low-voltage outdoor and landscape lights have become increasingly popular in recent years due to the numerous benefits they offer. Nick Schriver, the owner of Decorating Elves, is Tampa Bay’s only Certified Low-Voltage Lighting Technician (CLVLT). This designation, given by the Association of Outdoor Lighting Professionals (AOLP), means Nick uses best practices and has access to the most current information on low-voltage outdoor lighting design and installation. Experience and knowledge are important when installing any outdoor lighting system, and the team at Decorating Elves has both! Read More →

20 Dec

Why Choose LED Landscape Lighting?

When it comes to outdoor landscape lighting, LEDs (LED stands for the light emitting diode) has become the gold standard, and with good reasons. LED is simply superior to traditional lighting types, such as incandescent or CFLs, in almost every way. If you want a gorgeous outdoor lighting installation using high-quality LED bulbs, Decorating Elves should be your next call at 727-474-2628. Our expert team of lighting designers will work with you to create a stunning LED landscape lighting design that keeps heads turning all year long. Read More →

10 Jan

Benefits Of Outdoor LED Lighting

Just take a quick drive around Tampa Bay at night and you’ll quickly realize the impact outdoor LED lighting can have on any property! From residential to commercial, and sometimes even industrial properties, outdoor LED lights are popping up everywhere. But, are these lights just a pretty face or something more?

Appearance

One of the biggest benefits of outdoor LED lighting is its upscale visage. With the addition of some strategically placed yard lights, you can take your home’s aesthetic up a notch and become the envy of your entire neighborhood! And, you can upgrade to the pathway or entryway lights for an even more luxurious look. Read More →

15 Dec

The Best Energy Efficient Outdoor Lighting Trends

Are you looking at installing some outdoor lighting on your property? Whether you have some dark paths that pose a tripping hazard or you want to light up an outdoor entertainment area, there are some great energy efficient options available. Here are the most energy efficient outdoor lighting trends we’re seeing for the coming year.

Retro LED bulbs

Want the retro look of a halogen bulb with the energy efficiency of long-lasting LED bulbs? You no longer have to choose between the two! LED bulbs are available in a wide variety of styles, including many retro looks. Read More →