Nothing spices up a party like some well positioned outdoor party lights. Whether subtle or bold, twinkly or dim these outdoor lights can make a big statement and really add a celebratory feel to any outdoor party. In addition, some outdoor lighting is important for safety reasons.

Don’t let cost deter you if you are planning to light up a special occasion – there are plenty of cost effective options that are simple and quick to install, which will create a special look for your backyard party. This is especially true if you plan ahead and obtain seasonal lighting just after the season has ended – you can get some smoking deals on Christmas lights if you shop with a designer’s eye and choose lighting that can be used in any season. You can also occasionally make use of indoor lighting outside, but make sure not to leave indoor lighting exposed.

There are a number of different types of lightening you can use for your party. The lights you choose will depend on the type of party you are throwing, your budget and the location of the party. Try to think about your lightening scheme globally. Lighting schemes generally fail to achieve the desired effect if they are done in a piecemeal. Sometimes drawing a diagram can help you decide what the overall effect is going to be.

Remember that the amount of lights and the design of the lighting you install should be appropriate to the type of event you are planning to host. Family occasions with both young and old attendees would typically benefit from a brighter lighting scheme, whereas a 30’s something party will typically require a bit more ambiance and a little less ’spotlight’ effect. For a very small intimate event, very soft lighting with individual lighting focal points will create a great ambiance.

If you are looking for a very romantic effect, then consider adding some diffused lighting by adding a spotlight or string lights behind fabric or flowing drapery. The backlighting effect can create a very intimate space. Remember, not all party lighting needs to be multi-colored with a disco-ball effect! Another very romantic type of lighting is natural flame – you could line a pathway or surround a table with lanterns, and have torches lighting the entrance.

If you have a water feature to play with, this can add an entirely different dimension to the types of party lights you are able to feature. Whether you are at a cottage on the lake or the ocean, or you have a backyard pool, or even just a small water fountain, spotlights and underwater lighting can create wonderful lighting effects and will add a sense of spaciousness to the event. However you choose to light the water feature you have available, make sure to find lighting specifically designed to be in contact with water, and keep all extension cords and receptacles well out of range of water and wet areas.

Plan your lighting scheme in advance. Look in magazines or online for ideas. Visit lighting stores or the lighting departments of large stores like Home Depot or Ikea. Any party you decide to host can be enhanced by the use of outdoor party lights.