Blog - Page 4 of 18 - Decorating Elves

01 Sep

Autumn Pathways: Guiding the Way with Beautifully Lit Walkways and Driveways

As the vibrant colors of summer give way to the crisp and cozy embrace of autumn, there’s a certain magic that descends upon the world. The air becomes cooler, the leaves transform into a breathtaking symphony of reds, oranges, and yellows, and a sense of tranquility settles in. In this season of change, one of the most captivating ways to enhance your outdoor space is by adorning it with beautifully lit walkways and driveways. These luminous pathways not only serve a practical purpose but also elevate the aesthetic appeal of your surroundings, creating an inviting atmosphere for all who tread upon them.

Illuminating Aesthetics

Autumn evenings are known for their early sunsets and extended nights. While this transition may herald shorter days, it also offers the perfect opportunity to play with lighting design. Well-placed lights along walkways and driveways can transform an ordinary yard into a captivating wonderland. Imagine walking along a gently curving pathway illuminated by soft, warm lights that cast a gentle glow on fallen leaves. The interplay of light and shadow creates a sense of depth and mystery, inviting you to explore your surroundings even as the sun dips below the horizon.

(Photo courtesy of Dauer, a trusted brand we are proud to install).

Safety and Practicality

Beyond their enchanting allure, well-lit pathways and driveways offer essential safety benefits. As the autumn nights grow darker, these illuminated passages ensure that you and your guests can navigate your outdoor space without stumbling or tripping over uneven ground. Whether you’re returning home after a long day or welcoming friends for an evening gathering, the well-lit paths guide everyone safely to your doorstep.

Embracing Natural Elements

Autumn is a season that celebrates the beauty of nature’s transformation. By incorporating lighting into your outdoor design, you can showcase the intricate details of your surroundings. Imagine tiny lights delicately strung along tree branches, highlighting the captivating interplay between the colorful foliage and the twinkling luminance. This blending of natural elements and man-made illumination adds a layer of depth and complexity to your outdoor environment.

Tailoring the Ambiance

One of the most exciting aspects of designing illuminated walkways and driveways is the ability to tailor the ambiance to suit your preferences. Opt for soft, warm lights to create a cozy and intimate atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a cup of hot cider on a chilly evening. Alternatively, go for brighter, cooler lights to enhance the vibrancy of the autumn colors and encourage a more dynamic and invigorating mood.

Minimalism Meets Elegance

The beauty of autumn lies in its simplicity. The sight of fallen leaves, the crunch of them underfoot, and the brisk breeze evoke a sense of minimalistic charm. Lighting design can enhance this elegance without overshadowing it. Subtle light fixtures, such as lantern-style lamps can be strategically placed to illuminate autumn pathways and enhance the allure of the natural world.

In conclusion, autumn is a season that invites us to embrace change and find beauty in the transformation of nature. By embellishing our outdoor spaces with thoughtfully designed and beautifully lit walkways and driveways, we can create a haven of tranquility and charm. These pathways not only serve as a guide through the seasonal shifts but also as a testament to the power of human creativity and the allure of the natural world. So, as the leaves fall and the evenings grow longer, let your outdoor space come alive with the gentle glow of autumnal lights, guiding the way for all who wish to explore its enchanting beauty.

Contact your designer at Outdoor Lighting by Decorating Elves to get your yard ready for all the Autumn season has to offer! Contact us or call 727.474.2628.

28 Aug

Enhancing Campus Safety: A Guide to Outdoor Lighting for Administrators

As school administrators and facility managers, the safety of students, staff, and visitors on your campus is of paramount importance. One crucial yet often overlooked aspect of campus security is outdoor lighting. Properly designed and strategically placed outdoor lighting can significantly contribute to a safer and more secure environment. In this guide, we will delve into various tips and considerations for enhancing campus safety through well-thought-out outdoor lighting solutions.

Assessing Lighting Needs

Before implementing any changes, conduct a thorough assessment of your campus lighting needs. Identify high-traffic areas, potential blind spots, and places where improved visibility is necessary, such as parking lots, pathways, entry points, and recreational spaces.

Optimal Lighting Placement

Strategic placement of lighting fixtures is key to effective security. Install lights at entry and exit points, along pathways, near building corners, and around parking areas. Illuminating these areas minimizes hiding spots and deters potential intruders.

Consider Light Levels

Ensure that the light levels are appropriate for the intended purpose of each area. Well-lit pathways should have higher light levels compared to ambient lighting in recreational spaces. LED lights are energy-efficient and can provide the required illumination while also reducing energy costs.

Motion-Sensor Lighting

Motion-sensor lighting is an excellent addition to any security lighting plan. These lights activate when motion is detected, which can startle potential intruders and alert security personnel. Place motion-sensor lights near entrances, corners, and blind spots to enhance their effectiveness.

Using Timers and Dimmers

Implement timers to ensure that lighting remains consistent throughout the night. Dimmers can help create a balance between safety and energy conservation during low-traffic hours. For instance, dimmed lights can guide individuals without creating excessive glare.

Incorporating Smart Lighting Systems

Modern technology offers the advantage of smart lighting systems. These systems allow remote control of lighting levels, timings, and even color temperatures. Administrators can adjust lighting settings according to changing needs, events, and emergencies.

Addressing Light Pollution

While illuminating your campus for safety, be mindful of light pollution. Excessive or poorly directed lighting can lead to light trespass and negatively impact neighboring areas. Use shielded fixtures and focus the lighting where it’s needed most.

Regular Maintenance

Outdoor lighting requires regular maintenance to ensure its effectiveness. Burned-out bulbs, dirty fixtures, and other issues can compromise security. Implement a routine maintenance schedule to promptly address any lighting-related concerns.

Security Camera Integration

Integrate lighting systems with security cameras for enhanced surveillance. Well-lit areas improve the quality of camera footage, making it easier to identify potential threats and incidents.

Community Involvement

Engage with students, staff, and the wider community in discussions about outdoor lighting improvements. Their insights and concerns can provide valuable perspectives on areas that need attention.

Strategic outdoor lighting is a powerful tool for enhancing campus safety. By carefully considering placement, light levels, and modern technologies like motion sensors and smart lighting systems, administrators can create a safer and more secure environment for everyone on campus. Remember that a well-lit campus not only fosters safety but also contributes to a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere.

Contact your campus lighting designer at Outdoor Lighting by Decorating Elves to create and implement your plan! Call 727.474.2628 or contact us.

24 Aug

Enhance Learning and Homework with Outdoor Lighting

The school term has started again! As classes get fully underway and your student is assigned homework, projects and reports; space to create and work is at a premium. One powerful tool in this endeavor to enhance learning is outdoor lighting, which has the potential to transform ordinary outdoor areas into vibrant and functional extensions of the learning environment. In this blog post, we’ll explore the numerous benefits of using outdoor lighting to create additional living areas for your student to thrive!

Expanding Learning Horizons:

Traditional classroom settings have their limitations, often constraining students’ imaginations and productivity. By integrating outdoor spaces illuminated with thoughtfully designed lighting, parents can encourage their students to explore and think beyond the usual confines. These unconventional environments stimulate curiosity and can inspire a fresh perspective on various subjects.

Immersion in Nature:

Exposure to nature has been linked to improved cognitive function and reduced stress levels. When outdoor spaces are well-lit, students can study and work surrounded by the calming influence of nature. This immersion can lead to enhanced focus and creativity, allowing students to approach their homework and projects with a clear mind and renewed energy.

Aesthetic Appeal:

Effective outdoor lighting not only serves a functional purpose but also enhances the aesthetic appeal of the learning environment. Well-placed lights can transform ordinary spaces into inviting areas that students are drawn to. This appeal can significantly impact their willingness to engage in learning activities outdoors.

Collaborative Learning Opportunities:

Outdoor spaces equipped with proper lighting can become hubs for collaborative learning. Students can gather to discuss assignments, brainstorm ideas, and work on group projects. The relaxed and informal setting encourages open communication and the exchange of ideas, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie among peers.

Boosting Creativity:

Outdoor environments often provide a break from routine, prompting students to approach their tasks with a renewed sense of creativity. Whether it’s a science experiment, an art project, or a writing assignment, the outdoor setting, coupled with carefully placed lighting, can stimulate out-of-the-box thinking and innovative problem-solving.

Exposure to Real-world Conditions:

As students progress in their academic journey, they will increasingly be required to work in various environments. By utilizing outdoor spaces for homework and projects, students can gain exposure to real-world conditions. This prepares them for scenarios where they might need to adapt to different settings and lighting conditions.

Enhancing Overall Well-being:

Spending time outdoors, especially under proper lighting conditions, can positively impact students’ overall well-being. The combination of fresh air, natural light, and the opportunity to connect with the environment can help reduce stress, improve mood, and increase overall happiness levels.

The integration of outdoor lighting to create additional living areas for school homework and projects brings an array of benefits that extend well beyond the typical. It’s an investment in students’ holistic development, providing them with opportunities to explore, create, collaborate, and learn in an inspiring and rejuvenating environment. By embracing the potential of outdoor spaces and innovative lighting solutions, parents can pave the way for a more engaging and enriching educational experience. Contact your designer today to bring the magic of learning to your outdoor space!

22 Aug

Designing a Great Sound System for Your Great Outdoors

Transforming your outdoor space isn’t just about visual aesthetics. The right audio setup can create a mood, bring life to parties, or simply offer an immersive nature experience. While designing an outdoor audio system might seem straightforward, ensuring crystal clear sound across your garden, pool, or patio requires careful planning. Here are our top tips to make your outdoor audio truly resonate.

Understand Your Space

Before investing in equipment, evaluate your outdoor area. Is it an intimate garden or an expansive backyard? The size and layout determine the number, type, and placement of speakers. It’s essential to distribute sound strategically and evenly so that you don’t have areas that are too loud or too quiet.

Choose Weather-Resistant Equipment

Tampa Bay’s tropical climate means unexpected rain showers and high humidity. Always opt for weather-resistant or waterproof speakers and equipment designed to withstand the elements. You may want to take it a step further and make sure your outdoor audio equipment is impervious to algae growth as well since algae spread via wind currents here in Tampa Bay quite easily.

Opt for Directional Speakers

Unlike indoor spaces where walls help reflect and distribute sound, the open nature of outdoor areas can dissipate sound waves. Directional speakers focus sound towards specific areas, ensuring clarity with pinpoint precision and reducing noise pollution to neighbors.

Bury the Cables

Nothing disrupts the beauty of a landscaped garden like cables running everywhere. Use conduits to bury and protect speaker wires. This not only enhances aesthetics but also keeps cables safe from our unpredictable weather and over-zealous garden tools.

Consider Wireless Systems

If burying cables sounds too extensive, there are high-quality wireless outdoor audio systems available. They offer excellent sound, and flexibility in speaker placement, and often integrate seamlessly with smart home systems. Wireless outdoor audio setups are still somewhat new, so do your research before investing in one of these modern systems.

Balance Sound Sources

A great outdoor audio setup isn’t just about volume; it’s about immersion. Position speakers around your space to envelop listeners, creating a balanced sound experience from every angle. Think of it the same as a surround sound setup in your home…having the audio pour in from all directions really makes you feel like you’re in the TV show or movie, and your outdoor spaces deserve this same attention.

Integrate with Lighting

Sound and light go hand-in-hand in creating ambiance. Consider integrating your audio system with your outdoor lighting setup. This way, when you switch to party mode with upbeat tracks, the lights can shift and color-change in sync, creating a holistic sensory experience that will wow both young and old.

Test and Adjust

Once everything’s set up, spend time in different areas of your outdoor space listening to various types of music. Adjust speaker angles and volume levels to ensure the best sound quality everywhere. Get your family members or friends to help out, as people of different heights might have different perceptions.

Call in the Pros

Just as with lighting, designing an outdoor audio system is both an art and a science. Consulting with professionals (like us at Decorating Elves!) can help in selecting the right equipment, optimizing placement, and ensuring the best sound quality. We often get calls from home and business owners who tried to DIY but quickly realized the value of experienced professionals when designing an outdoor audio setup. We helped them and can help you too!

Ready to Sit Back and Listen to Some Sweet Sounds?

For expert guidance on crafting the perfect outdoor audio experience in Tampa Bay, don’t hesitate to reach out to Decorating Elves. Call us at 727-474-2628 or contact us online to schedule your free outdoor audio consultation today, and get ready to sit back and relax with some sweet tunes in all your outdoor spaces.

18 Aug

Illuminate Safety: Back to School

As the summer sun begins to set and the cool breeze of autumn starts to sweep through the air, it’s clear that back-to-school season is upon us. With the excitement of new books, friends, and adventures, it’s important not to overlook the essential aspect of safety. One often underrated way to enhance safety around your home during this time is through outdoor lighting. In this blog post, we’ll explore the significance of Outdoor Lighting by Decorating Elves as a tool to promote safety and create a welcoming environment for the back-to-school season.

The Importance of Outdoor Lighting for Safety:

As the days grow shorter and students head back to school, well-placed outdoor lighting becomes essential. Illuminating walkways, driveways, and entry points can help prevent accidents and create a clear path for students, parents, and visitors arriving at your home. Adequate lighting discourages potential intruders, providing peace of mind for you and your family.

outdoor landscape lighting tampa fl

Enhancing Curb Appeal:

Beyond safety, outdoor lighting offers an opportunity to enhance the curb appeal of your home. Decorating Elves specializes in creating lighting arrangements that not only serve a functional purpose but also add an aesthetic dimension to your outdoor space. By skillfully highlighting architectural features, landscaping, and pathways, your home will become a welcoming beacon that stands out in the neighborhood.

Customized Solutions by Decorating Elves:

Every home is unique, and its lighting needs should be treated as such. Decorating Elves understands the value of tailored solutions. Whether it’s path lighting, accent lighting, or even security lighting, our team of experts can work with you to design a lighting plan that suits your specific requirements and complements your home’s architecture.

Energy-Efficient and Smart Lighting:

Worried about energy consumption? Outdoor lighting doesn’t have to be a burden on your electricity bill. Decorating Elves can help you choose energy-efficient options like LED lights that are not only environmentally friendly but also cost-effective. Additionally, integrating smart lighting technology allows you to control your outdoor lights remotely, ensuring that your home always looks welcoming, whether you’re home or away.

Creating Safe Play Spaces:

For families with children, a well-lit outdoor area can become a safe and inviting playground. As kids engage in after-school activities and playdates, properly lit spaces ensure they can have fun without risking trips and falls. Well-lit spaces also make it easier for parents to supervise outdoor play in the early evening hours.

As the back-to-school season rolls around, prioritizing safety is key. The addition of Outdoor Lighting by Decorating Elves not only ensures the safety of your loved ones and visitors but also adds a touch of charm to your home. With our expertise in designing customized solutions and commitment to energy efficiency, you can trust Decorating Elves to illuminate your outdoor spaces in the most effective and appealing way possible. Prepare for a successful school year by brightening up your surroundings with the expertise of Decorating Elves.

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.

09 Aug

Outdoor Lighting Ideas that Have a Big Impact

When you’re investing your hard earned cash into an outdoor lighting setup, you want the biggest bang for your buck. Today, we’ll be sharing some outdoor lighting ideas that pack a punch and will transform your outdoor spaces into attention grabbing scenes. If you’re going for an outdoor lighting vibe that shocks and awes, this is the blog post for you!

Entrance Lighting

Your home’s entrance is the first impression visitors get of your property. With a carefully planned lighting design, you can make it welcoming, impressive, and secure. Consider using lanterns or wall sconces to flank the door, or ground lights to illuminate the pathway leading to it. Add a spotlight or two to highlight any unique architectural features.

Pathway & Stair Lighting

Illuminate your walkways, garden paths, and stairways with strategically placed lights. Low-voltage path lights can outline the perimeter of a walkway or garden bed, while stairs can be safely lit for more secure navigation. Not only does pathway and stair lighting lead attention to your landscape features, it makes your property much safer for you, your family, and your guests.

Deck & Patio Lighting

Deck and patio areas can become magical spaces with the right lighting. String lights create a festive, cozy atmosphere while under-railing or under-bench lighting can provide subtle illumination that defines the space. For those with a pergola, consider installing an outdoor chandelier for an elegant touch.

Water Feature Lighting

If you’re fortunate to have a water feature like a pond, pool, or fountain, lighting it can create a stunning effect when lit up. Submersible lights in a pond can create beautiful reflections, while lighting around a pool can enhance safety and create a resort-like ambiance.

Accent Lighting for Architectural Features

Pergola with uplighting and downlighting examples Make your home’s unique architectural features stand out with accent lighting. Use uplighting for tall structures or trees, grazing to highlight texture and form, and downlighting for gentle, romantic effects. Remember, the key to successful accent lighting is subtlety and focusing on the most important elements.

Outdoor Kitchen and Barbecue Lighting

If you’re an outdoor cook or love to host barbecues, good task lighting is essential. Consider installing adjustable lights to ensure you have the visibility needed for cooking and cleaning in outdoor cooking spaces. Accent lights can light up a custom-built brick barbecue or grill, enhancing its beauty and letting everyone know where to avoid it. Don’t forget to add proper lighting to the dining tables!

Fire Pit Lighting

Fire pits are magical places where stories are shared, and marshmallows are roasted. To enhance the fire pit experience, add soft lights around the perimeter. This provides just enough light to see without detracting from the glow of the fire. This also creates a defined line that should not be crossed for safety.

Garden Sculpture and Artwork Lighting

For some of us, our yards are like a blank canvas, waiting to be designed. Outdoor sculptures and artwork can bring us great joy…and can come at a great cost. Your expensive outdoor artwork deserves attention even after the sun goes down! Use spotlighting to highlight these pieces and to add drama to your outdoor space at night.

Create a Stunning Outdoor Lighting Design With Decorating Elves

Remember, outdoor lighting is an art as much as it is a science. With a blend of creativity and technical understanding, you can create a stunning effect that not only enhances the beauty of your property but also increases its security and functionality. At Decorating Elves in Tampa Bay, we aren’t afraid to experiment with different techniques and setups to create the outdoor lighting design of your dreams! Call us at 727-474-2628 to schedule a free lighting design consultation today.

04 Aug

Enter the “Best Yard in Tampa Bay” Contest and Win $100!

Unveiling Tampa Bay’s Finest Yards: Join the “Best Yard in Tampa Bay” Contest and Win Big!

Are you ready to witness the incredible beauty of Tampa Bay’s most breathtaking yards? Look no further! Outdoor Lighting by Decorating Elves proudly presents the “Best Yard in Tampa Bay” Contest, where local residents get a chance to showcase their creativity and win a fantastic prize of $100! Whether you’re a gardening enthusiast, a landscape design aficionado, or simply take pride in your outdoor space, this contest is the perfect opportunity to let your yard shine and be recognized as one of the best in the bay!

The Call to Gardeners and Homeowners:

Tampa Bay is known for its picturesque landscapes, lush greenery, and stunning outdoor living areas. Now, we want to celebrate these extraordinary yards and the dedication of homeowners who transform their outdoor spaces into true havens. From beautiful flower beds to captivating lighting arrangements, from perfectly manicured lawns to charming patio setups, we are eager to witness the magic you’ve created right outside your home.

How to Participate:

Participating in the “Best Yard in Tampa Bay” Contest is simple and exciting. Follow these easy steps to showcase your masterpiece:

1. Capture the Magic: Take a high-resolution photograph of your beautifully decorated yard, highlighting its most remarkable features. Ensure the photo truly reflects the essence of your yard’s design and the effort you’ve put into making it special.

2. Like and Share: Visit Outdoor Lighting by Decorating Elves’s Facebook page and hit that “Like” button to show your support. Then, share the contest post with your friends, family, and neighbors, encouraging them to participate too. After all, the more, the merrier!

3. Visit the Outdoor Lighting by Decorating Elves Instagram profile and follow us to stay up to date on the contest and happenings! Feel free to share there too!

3. Submit Your Entry: Use this form to submit your info and photos (up to 3)!

The Judging Process:

Once the submission period ends on Aug. 31, our panel of expert judges at Outdoor Lighting by Decorating Elves will begin the tough but exhilarating task of reviewing each entry, then selecting the top 5. They’ll evaluate the entries based on creativity, originality, aesthetics, and how well the yard captures the essence of Tampa Bay’s natural beauty.

The Top 5 entries will be posted on Outdoor Lighting by Decorating Elves’s social media pages for popular vote from Sep. 1-7.

The Prize and Winner Announcement:

The winner of the “Best Yard in Tampa Bay” Contest will be announced Sep. 8 and receive a delightful reward of $100 in cash! What better way to celebrate your passion for gardening and decorating than with a little extra green to further enhance your outdoor oasis?

The announcement of the winner will be made on our social media pages and through direct contact with the lucky participant. Even if you don’t win, the recognition your yard receives through this contest will undoubtedly inspire others in the community to take up gardening and decorating, making Tampa Bay an even more beautiful place to live!

Spread the Joy:

Remember, this contest isn’t just about the prize—it’s about coming together as a community of gardeners and homeowners who share a love for beautiful yards and outdoor spaces. Encourage your friends, family, and neighbors to participate, and let’s make this contest a resounding success!

Are you ready to showcase your creative flair and earn the title of having the “Best Yard in Tampa Bay”? Embrace this opportunity to display your hard work and passion for gardening and decorating. Let the world see how you’ve turned your yard into a magnificent work of art!

Don’t wait too long! The submission deadline is approaching, so grab your cameras and get ready to share the wonder of your yard with the world. Tampa Bay is eagerly waiting to witness the beauty you’ve crafted just beyond your doorstep!

*Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only. Please refer to the official contest rules and regulations provided by Outdoor Lighting by Decorating Elves for full details on how to participate and win the “Best Yard in Tampa Bay” Contest.*

01 Aug

Designing Outdoor Lighting: A Step-By-Step Guide

Here at Decorating Elves, your trusted partner in designing outdoor lighting, we are renowned for our work in Tampa Bay, Florida. Today we want to share our expertise with you on a topic we hold dear – how to plan showstopping outdoor lighting. In this post, we’ll go over the steps you need to take to map out a lighting design that turns heads all over your neighborhood.

Evaluate Your Space

Start by taking a good look at your outdoor area. What are its unique features? Do you have a pool, a garden, a deck, or maybe a beautiful old oak tree? Identify areas that could benefit from illumination for safety, usability, and aesthetics. Additionally, consider potential obstacles such as rocks, pathways, walls, and vegetation that might affect your lighting layout.

Define Your Lighting Goals

Every lighting project begins with a purpose. Are you looking to enhance safety and security, set a specific mood, highlight architectural features, or a combination of these? Your goals will dictate the type of lighting fixtures and their positioning.

Sketch Your Lighting Plan

Armed with your goals and space assessment, sketch a simple plan of your area. Mark the locations where you intend to place lights and note down the type of fixture you envision. Use this plan to ensure you’re covering all the necessary areas and not overcrowding others. Remember, the best outdoor lighting setup not only illuminates your property but also reflects your personality. It’s all about creativity and functionality working hand in hand.

Choose the Right Fixtures

There’s a myriad of outdoor lighting fixtures available in the market, from spotlights and floodlights to wall lanterns and path lights. The right fixture depends on its intended purpose. Spotlights are perfect for highlighting features, while path lights improve visibility along walkways. When you go with a professional outdoor lighting company like Decorating Elves, you don’t have to worry about choosing the wrong fixture for the space since we handle all of these details for you!

Select the Correct Lighting Techniques

Outdoor lighting techniques can create different effects. Uplighting can make a tree or statue more dramatic. Wall washing can highlight the texture of a wall or a sculpture. Downlighting or moonlighting can mimic natural light for a gentle, romantic effect. Use a combination of these techniques to achieve your desired outcome. The experts here at Decorating Elves know all the tricks and techniques to emphasize your landscape’s assets.

Consider Energy Efficiency and Maintenance

LED lights are energy-efficient and durable, making them perfect for outdoor usage. They may have a higher upfront cost, but their longevity and lower energy consumption mean savings in the long run. Also, consider fixtures that are easy to clean and replace to minimize maintenance time and costs. We offer a no-hassle preventative maintenance plan for all of our customers that includes routine inspections, cleaning, and repairs – just contact us for more details.

Test Your Lighting

Before you make a permanent installation, do a temporary setup to see how everything looks. This “nighttime demo” allows you to adjust the intensity and positioning of your lights to achieve the perfect look. This test will also show you if you have any faulty fixtures or poor placements.

Install Your Lights

Once you’re happy with your plan, proceed to install your lights. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and consider hiring a professional if the installation involves complex wiring. Some outdoor lighting must be wired directly into your home’s electric system, so it’s better to hire someone to handle this if you’re not familiar.

Schedule Regular Maintenance

Outdoor lighting requires regular maintenance to keep it in prime condition. This includes cleaning fixtures, replacing burnt-out bulbs, and ensuring the timers and sensors work correctly. Regular maintenance ensures your lighting continues to enhance your space beautifully and safely. Once again, we offer a no-hassle maintenance plan that covers all these bases to keep your outdoor lighting setup looking great all year long!

Let Decorating Elves Help With Your Outdoor Lighting Setup

Designing your outdoor lighting can be an exciting and fulfilling project, but if you need help along the way, remember that we at Decorating Elves are always ready to assist. Contact us today at 727-474-2628 to schedule a free consultation, and let’s create a lighting masterpiece in your outdoor space together!

24 Jul

Outdoor Lighting can Deter Pesky Bugs this Summer!

When it comes to illuminating our outdoor spaces, we often seek a perfect balance between creating an inviting ambiance and deterring pesky insects from crashing the party. While the choice of lighting color might not seem like a significant factor, opting for warm LED lights can surprisingly make a substantial difference in attracting fewer bugs compared to cool colors. In this blog post, we will explore the science behind insect behavior and shed light on why warm LED lighting can be your go-to choice for bug-friendly outdoor illumination.

bugs flying around blue light

Understanding Insect Attraction:

Before delving into the specific advantages of warm LED lighting, let’s briefly understand why insects are attracted to light in the first place. Many insects, including mosquitoes, are naturally drawn towards sources of light. This phenomenon, known as phototaxis, is believed to be an evolutionary response to their navigational systems, which rely on celestial cues for orientation. Insects use the moon and stars as their primary reference points, and when they encounter artificial light sources, they can become disoriented and confused, often resulting in their untimely demise.

Cool vs. Warm LED Lighting:

LED (Light Emitting Diode) lighting has revolutionized the lighting industry with its energy efficiency, durability, and versatility. LEDs come in various color temperatures, typically categorized as cool (higher color temperature) or warm (lower color temperature) lighting. Cool lighting appears bluish-white, similar to daylight, while warm lighting emits a softer, yellowish glow, resembling the warm hues of sunset.

Bug-Friendly Warm LED Lighting:

Contrary to popular belief, warm LED lighting is considered more bug-friendly compared to cool lighting options. Here’s why:

1. Reduced Blue Spectrum: Insects are particularly attracted to the blue spectrum of light, as it simulates their natural navigational cues. Cool LED lights emit a higher proportion of blue light, making them more enticing to bugs. Warm LED lights, on the other hand, have a reduced blue spectrum, which makes them less appealing to insects.

2. Longer Wavelengths: Warm LED lights have longer wavelengths compared to cool lights. Insects have different visual systems than humans and are more sensitive to shorter wavelengths, especially in the blue and ultraviolet range. By opting for warm LED lights, you minimize the wavelengths that insects find most attractive, resulting in fewer bugs swarming around your outdoor areas.

3. Outdoor Illumination: Warm LED lights create a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of your outdoor spaces. The gentle, yellowish glow mimics natural sources of light, such as fireflies and moonlight. This type of illumination can be more enjoyable for humans while being less disruptive to the insect population.

Tips for Using Warm LED Lighting Outdoors:

To make the most of warm LED lighting while minimizing insect attraction, we often install fixtures with the following in mind:

1. Positioning: Place warm LED lights away from gathering areas to divert insect activity. Illuminating pathways and perimeters can help guide guests while keeping pesky bugs at bay.

2. Shielding: Opt for fixtures that direct the light downward and are shielded to minimize light spillage. This technique focuses the illumination where it is needed while reducing the chances of attracting insects.

3. Motion Sensor Controls: Incorporate motion sensors into your outdoor lighting system. This way, lights only activate when movement is detected, reducing the overall duration of illumination and attracting fewer insects in the process.

Choosing warm LED lighting for your outdoor spaces is not only a stylish and inviting option but also a strategic move in creating an insect-friendly environment. By selecting warm lights with reduced blue spectrum and longer wavelengths, you can enjoy the benefits of outdoor illumination while minimizing unwanted bug guests. Remember to consider proper positioning, shielded fixtures, and motion sensor controls to optimize your bug-friendly outdoor lighting setup. Embrace the warmth of LED lighting and create an outdoor atmosphere that both you and your guests can relish, pesky bug-free.

Happy outdoor entertaining with Outdoor Lighting by Decorating Elves!