A patio light is a great way to bring out the best in your outdoor space. Whether it’s a romantic evening under the stars or an entertaining party, having the right patio lighting can help keep things safe and fun, even when the sun goes down.
String lights are versatile enough to do almost anything: define edges and borders; wrap columns, banisters or even trees; or hang suspended over a space like twinkling stars to cast a magical, romantic glow. When purchasing light strings, always make sure they are rated for use outside and have the right number of bulbs to achieve the desired effect. If using on a tree, look for hardware such as cable clamps or C hooks (also called bicycle hooks) that allow you to secure the lights to the wood without requiring tools.
If you want a more subtle patio light option, downlighting is an excellent choice. This type of lighting is installed high in the tree or on a branch and then directed down, which can provide visibility without being overly glaring.
Another option is a post light, which can be mounted to a deck or porch and used to light pathways or highlight specific areas of the outdoor space. They’re also a good way to illuminate the steps leading up to your door so that guests can safely navigate the area in the dark. For a touch of elegance, consider pairing your post lights with a set of lanterns.