Uncategorized Archives - Page 5 of 6

28 Jun

Enjoy Your Pool During the Summer Nights

Enjoy Your Pool During the Summer Nights with Outdoor Lighting

As the summer heat hits its peak, taking a refreshing dip is always a welcomed way to enjoy your pool. But why limit playtime in the pool to daylight hours? With the right outdoor lighting, you can transform your pool area into a captivating oasis that can be enjoyed well into the summer nights. At Decorating Elves, we specialize in residential outdoor lighting services that not only enhance the aesthetics of your property, but also provide added security and safety. In this post, we will explore the benefits of outdoor lighting around your pool and the various techniques we offer to create the perfect ambiance for your summer nights.

Extend Your Pool Time

Imagine lounging by your pool, sipping a cold drink, and gazing at the beautifully illuminated water. With our residential outdoor lighting solutions, you can extend the enjoyment of your pool beyond daylight hours. Whether you prefer a soft, romantic ambiance or a vibrant, energetic atmosphere, our expert designers will work closely with you to create a lighting plan that perfectly suits your preferences.

Enhance Safety and Security

Outdoor lighting not only adds charm to your pool area but also enhances safety and security. By eliminating dark hidden areas, well-placed lights can help prevent accidents and ensure that your family and guests can move around the pool safely. Additionally, a well-lit area deters criminal activity, providing you with peace of mind.

Types of Pool Lighting Techniques

At Decorating Elves, we offer a wide range of techniques to create stunning pool lighting effects, including:

Underwater Lighting: Illuminate your pool from within with underwater lights that create a captivating glow. These lights can be strategically placed to enhance the colors of the water, creating a mesmerizing visual experience.
Up Lighting: Install lights at the base of trees or architectural features surrounding your pool area to cast an upward beam of light, highlighting their beauty and creating a dramatic effect.
Pathway Lighting: Guide your way to the pool with elegantly placed pathway lights. These lights not only provide a safe path, but also add a touch of sophistication to your outdoor space.
Deck Lighting: Illuminate your pool deck with discreetly placed lights to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Deck lighting enhances the aesthetics of your pool area and ensures that your guests can move around comfortably.
Moon Lighting: Mimic is the soft glow of the moon with carefully positioned lights in trees or tall structures surrounding your pool area. This technique creates a magical, enchanting, and dare we say, romantic, atmosphere. Time to break out the champagne!

Enjoy Your Pool Day and Night This Summer

With summer in full swing, now is the perfect time to enhance your pool experience with outdoor lighting. At Decorating Elves, our team of outdoor lighting designers will work closely with you to understand your vision for your pool area and bring it to life. Whether you desire a resort-style look or something a little more funky, we have the skills and expertise to create an outdoor lighting solution that blows you away. Contact Decorating Elves today at 727-474-2628 for a complimentary lighting consultation and let us illuminate your summertime swims!

13 Jun

Flying the American Flag with Pride: Proper Etiquette and Lighting

The American flag is a symbol of unity, freedom, and patriotism, all traits we hold dear at Decorating Elves. Flying the flag with respect and ensuring it is properly illuminated are important practices that honor the values it represents. In this blog post, we will discuss the guidelines for flying the American flag and provide useful tips on lighting it to show your pride and respect.

Choosing the Right Flagpole:

When it comes to flying the American flag, selecting the appropriate flagpole is crucial. Consider the following factors:

a. Height: The flagpole should be tall enough to ensure the flag flies freely and is visible. A general guideline is to have a flagpole at least one-quarter to one-third the height of the flagpole’s location above ground level.

b. Material: Flagpoles are available in various materials such as aluminum, fiberglass, and steel. Choose a sturdy and durable material that suits your needs and budget.

c. Location: Ensure the flagpole is installed in an area that provides enough space for the flag to fly without obstructions. Also, make sure it adheres to local zoning and homeowner association regulations.

Flag Size and Construction:

The size of the flag you choose will depend on the height of your flagpole. The following guidelines can help you determine the appropriate flag size:

a. Residential Flagpoles: For residential flagpoles, a flag size of 3′ by 5′ is commonly used. However, smaller flags, like 2′ by 3′, can also be appropriate for shorter flagpoles.

b. Commercial and Public Spaces: Larger flag sizes, such as 4′ by 6′ or 5′ by 8’, are suitable for commercial buildings, government offices, schools, and other public areas.

When selecting a flag, opt for high-quality materials like nylon or polyester, as they are durable and better withstand outdoor conditions. Look for flags that are made in the USA.

Proper Flag Placement and Etiquette:

To display the American flag with proper respect and etiquette, adhere to the following guidelines:

a. Position: When hoisting the flag, it should always be positioned above other flags or decorations. If multiple flags are flown on separate flagpoles, the American flag should have the prominent position on the right (left from the viewer’s perspective).

b. Half-Staff: The flag should be flown at half-staff during times of national mourning or as directed by the President of the United States or your state’s governor. Ensure you raise it to the top of the pole first, then lower it to the halfway mark.

c. Nighttime Display: If you wish to display the flag 24 hours a day, it must be properly illuminated during darkness. This can be achieved through dedicated flagpole lighting or external lighting directed at the flag.

Lighting the Flag:

Proper illumination ensures that the flag remains visible during nighttime hours. Decorating Elves is able to guide you on which would be most appropriate for your particular flag and surrounding area. A couple of popular options are:

a. Flagpole Lighting: Attach a light fixture specifically designed for flag illumination at the top of the flagpole. These fixtures are typically LED-based, energy-efficient, and designed to shine directly onto the flag.

b. External Lighting: If a dedicated flagpole light is not available, you can use external lighting sources. Position spotlights or floodlights in a way that focuses on the flag and provides sufficient illumination without causing glare or spill.

Remember to test the lighting setup before leaving it unattended to ensure it effectively illuminates the flag throughout the night. We will also be sure to check it during your semi-annual preventative maintenance checks and service anything out of order.

Flying and lighting the American flag is an important symbol of patriotism and respect. By following the guidelines mentioned above, you can proudly display the flag while adhering to proper flag etiquette and ensuring it remains illuminated during nighttime hours. Let us help you display your pride and respect as an American on Flag Day. We look forward to hearing from you!

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.

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.

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 Mar

The Importance of Using a State Licensed Contractor for Lighting

When you are ready to install lighting on your home, it can be tempting to try to do it yourself or hire the cheapest contractor. There are a lot of very good reasons that you should not do either. If you want outdoor lighting installed on your home, hiring a state licensed contractor is your best bet.

Trained and Certified

State licensed contractors are trained and certified in electrical work. When outdoor lighting is installed on your home, it must be wired and connected to electricity. In order to be safe and durable, lighting must be installed by a trained professional. The state is very thorough in licensing contractors, and by using a state licensed contractor, you know that your lighting will be installed correctly and safely. Read More →

27 Sep

Avoid the holiday hassle with Decorating Elves

It’s time to start planning your Christmas Lighting and Holiday Decorating needs for the 2018 season. Please contact our offices today to reserve your spot in our busy seasonal schedule.

We look forward to helping you Make it Look Awesome again this season. There are a lot of new Christmas Lighting and Holiday Décor product offerings this season. Some are very cool and can help make you stand out from the rest. Please ask one of our designers about them and how great they would look at your property. We are here to help you.

You can check out photos and videos of our Christmas Lighting and Holiday Décor Service here:

We look forward to helping you avoid the holiday hassle and enjoying the holidays more with those that matter most to you.

15 Mar

Making Plans for Stunning Outdoor Lighting Around Your Pool

The term “lanai” sounds like a foreign term to many Americans, but as a Florida homeowner you are perfectly familiar with this Hawaiian word. A lanai is an outdoor patio or balcony that is built out from the back or side of the home in order to extend the living area and provide a comfortable and attractive place to spend a few hours relaxing or gathered with friends. In Florida, where mosquitoes are active nearly any time of year, most lanais are surrounded by a large screen enclosure that keeps unwanted bugs and debris away. Read More →

05 May

The Art of Design In Landscape Lighting

Award Winning Design: Landscape Lighting

Our work was recently featured in Landscape and Irrigation Magazine by one of our trusted manufacturers, Brilliance LED. With the combination of our award winning designs and our high standards for landscape lighting products, it’s unlikely you’ll find anyone better in the St Petersburg, FL area. Here is a small piece of what was featured in the article:

This elegant Italian waterfront home on Brightwaters Blvd is nestled in the exclusive Snell Isle neighborhood of St Petersburg, Fla. With a lush, tropical landscape design embracing a grand entrance, the landscape lighting adds to the sophisticated aura. This home is a showpiece that represents the people that occupy it. Every feature space and architectural detail of the home itself is illuminated. Coppermoon brass bullet fixtures with Brilliance LED lamps highlight the home’s unique elements of architectural style. The tropical landscape features a variety of tall palms, all uplight, with path lights highlighting the beds and the paths. On the rear pool deck, up lighting was used on the large royal palms around the pool with the city just beyond the palms.

If you would like to read the article in its entirety, be sure to check us out in Landscape and Irrigation Magazine. For any and all Landscape Lighting needs in the Tampa area, be sure to call decorating elves!

1-800-MY-LITES
www.decoratingelves.com

09 Dec

Attention: Watering Lights Does Not Make Them Brighter!

It’s that time of year again when customers often find that their holiday lights have mysteriously decided to stop working. We know it can be frustrating but 95% of the time it’s because water has tripped the system while they were running. Here’s some simple solutions to keep your lights running uninterrupted this holiday season.

Sprinklers

To prevent your automatic or timed sprinkler system from soaking your light strands and tripping the GFCI, we recommend that you reset the timer on your sprinkler system so that watering occurs while the holiday lights are off (such as in the early morning).

GFCI “Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter” Outlet Trips

A GFCI is installed in most homes as a protection system that shuts down the flow of electricity to an electrical outlet when it senses a ground in the line. When outdoor holiday lights become excessively wet this will often cause the GFCI to trip. Should a GFCI circuit trip, it will need to be reset to restore power to the outlet.

Wait until the rain or sprinkler system has stopped and the light strands have had a chance to dry out before attempting to reset the GFCI. Should you decide to plug your lights into an alternate GFCI protected outlet, please remember that you must still reset the previous circuit to restore the flow of electricity to that outlet.

07 Sep

Hassle Free Halloween Lighting and Decorating!

With fall just around the corner, Decorating Elves wants to remind our customers that we offer full service installation for all of your Halloween decorating needs! Our lights and displays can vary anywhere from spooky graveyard scenes to adorable pumpkin patches.

No matter the theme you’re looking for, our designers can work with you to create a scene that will have the whole neighborhood talking! With our full service holiday lighting we’ll provide all the material, do all the installation, handle any maintenance, and take everything down when your Halloween festivities have ended.

Halloween Decorating Options include:

– Halloween Lighting
– Graveyard Scenes
– Skeletons, Monsters, Goblins, Pumpkins
– Hanging Props, Wire Frames
– Caskets
– Theme Colors
– Specialty Lighting, Strobes, Colors
– And much, much more.

https://www.decoratingelves.com/holiday-lighting/halloween-lighting-and-decor/

1-800-MY-LITES

Category Archives: Uncategorized