Considering the number of times a year that it’s possible to hold an event out on the patio, is it worth investing money in novelty patio lights? The simple answer is, probably yes, because the more you can make a feature of your patio, and particularly after dark, the more you are likely to use it.
If the weather’s kind and you are making the most of outside space, it’s a real shame to have to move the action indoors just because night has fallen. With carefully chosen patio lighting, the festivities can continue with the ‘switching on ceremony’ of the lights, as a prelude to the evening fun to come! Plus, using patio lights means that you can illuminate your event without having to worry about the safety element of candles, which can be problematic in terms of accidental knocks or any sudden breezes that could plunge your event and guests into sudden darkness.
The fun of researching novelty lights for your event is that there is such a wealth of choice out there, that you will certainly be able to find something that suits both your budget and your purpose. If you are canny about this, you will perhaps choose novelty items that can have repeated use across a number of festivities, so here’s a few ideas:
- Red lantern lights can be used for devilish effect at a Halloween gathering and again for seasonal cheer at Christmas.
- Choose a novelty shape that you know you will not get bored of too quickly and purchase replacement bulbs in a range of colors, so that you can ring the changes through use of color – a lot cheaper than replacing the whole set and without the hassle of re-stringing.
- Fruit and plant shapes will add an exotic appeal, which is part of the atmosphere created by partying or relaxing outdoors.
Lastly, to get the best value from your set, choose novelty patio lighting that is not a passing phase or gimmick – easier said than done if the kids are helping you choose, but try to steer towards items that won’t have a limited novelty value in themselves.