Summer is just around the corner, and brings with it a chance to fire up the barbecue and eat under the stars! When the sun goes down, proper outdoor lighting is essential for a safe and enjoyable experience.
Try multiple strings of party lights for a quick and easy outdoor lighting solution; they can span the entire patio as on Sweet Thing Blog or be suspended from an oversized umbrella like this image from Lamps Plus.
To take your outdoor lighting to the next level, combine strands of lights with other sources of illumination. My Paradissi illustrates the impact of candles on a dining table, while an arrangement of tiki torches sets the scene for dining al fresco on Lamps Plus.
An arbor provides the perfect place to affix a hanging lantern like in the image from Domestically Speaking.
Finally, a chandelier hanging from a tree on Bohemian Homes casts a romantic glow on an intimate evening for two. And no matter what combination of outdoor lighting you use, add a few citronella candles to the mix. You'll not only light up the night but also keep it mosquito free.
1. The tiki torch is classic for summer entertaining. This one features a solar powered LED to eliminate the mess of fuel and the risk of fire!
2. Create subtle boundaries around your outdoor dining area by surrounding it with several recessed well lights.
3. Easy to hang and appropriate for any style of decor, a string of white paper lanterns evokes an instant party vibe!
4. For a more modern look, seek out clean lines like the ones in Jonathan Adler's glass table lamp.
5. The shape of this bronze lantern has a summery, nautical feel, while the seeded glass provides a diffuse glow.
6. Mimic the magic of starlight with a perforated hanging lantern.
Image credits: Sweet Thing Blog, Lamps Plus, My Paradissi, Lamps Plus, Domestically Speaking, Bohemian Homes