Wedding Icicle Lights

Have you ever seen those pictures on Pinterest of lights under head tables at weddings. Well, we are here to tell you what you need to get that look. Icicle light strings. It really is that simple.

These classic icicle Christmas light strings aren't just for Christmas anymore. Icicle sets can be found in a variety of counts and styles. You will find green wire and white wire with clear bulbs, as well as styles that will drip or twinkle and even change colors. Even of these selections would be great for lighting tables, tents and chandeliers for your big day.

Lighting under tables is easy. All you have to do is wrap the lights around the underneath of the table and tape or staple them to the bottom. Then place a table cloth over and you have an elegant and glowing wedding decorations.

If you want to light your event tents, all you will have to do is hang the lights around the edges of the tent, just like you hang them along your roofline. It will light up your whole night. They will give a classic and fun look to your party.

If you are more of a DIY bride, then why not make your own chandeliers. All you have to have is a hula hoop, some ribbon, twine and icicle lights. Take your hula hoop and tie 8 pieces of twine around your hula hoop a few inches apart, then pull them up and tie them together so you can hang it. Then put a few dots of glue where you want to start wrapping your ribbon around. Wrap the ribbon all the way around the hoop and glue the end. Then all you have left is wrapping your icicle light string around. Ty using zip ties along the way to help secure your lights. Now plug it up and enjoy.

All of these projects are great for weddings of all types at any time of year. Try them out and see what you think. You can also find our entire selection of icicle light sets here.

Patio Lights for Weddings & Events Video

Zach has been working to create new videos for our new sites! Here is a video breaking down the different types of patio lights that we carry on AAChristmas.com and ChristmasLightsCentral.com. We're hoping to create even more of these videos in the future so like, subscribe, and share on twitter, facebook or pinterest!


Thanks for watching and if you have any ideas for future videos leave us a comment!

Patio Lights video, Learn about G30, G40, G50 bulbs.

Here's a video we made a while back about the difference between Patio lights. Since it's starting to be the time to prep for weddings we thought it'd be a good time to share it again. So watch the video above to learn about G30, G40, G50 Globe bulbs and more!

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Zach

All American Christmas Co. 

11S14 Patio Lights at All American Christmas Co.

All American Christmas Co. has carried "Globe" Patio lights for many years but as the popularity of using these decidedly old school lights grows we've chosen to start carrying the classic style S14 Patio Lights. S14 are just as common for patio lights as their rounder counterparts but have a few benefits over their globe cousins. They are an 11 watt bulb with E-27 Medium Base, they have the circular style filament for traditional appeal that is rated for approximately 8,000 hours.

These new patio lights come in most common transparent colors, a satin frosted white, and a handful of ceramic (opaque) colors. Since they are all medium base (same as a house hold light bulb) they require our larger commercial light line, like our Molded Commercial Light Strings. Even though these S14 bulbs are in our patio lights section they are popular for many uses, a lot of sign companies use them to light/outline signs, they are great for hanging across streets to get a European look, and they are incredibly popular for lighting up weddings!

Check out our Patio Lights page to see all the great S14 and Globe bulbs available.
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Zach Broyles

DIY Decorating Luminara Battery Candles

Who doesn't love battery operated candles? You can turn them on and forget about them, without worry of something catching on fire or you candle wax melting and spilling over onto the carpet. They are a great source of ambient lighting and they are perfectly safe. You can use them in centerpieces for holidays, in kid's rooms and even for special occasions, like weddings. But there are times that we all think, I wish this candle had a little more pizzazz. There is a way to dress up those plain candles, you just have to get creative.

Photo: Crafting Rebellion 

All you have to have for this project is Luminara battery operated candles in any sizes (white or ivory is best), some tissue paper in a pattern that will match the decor  of your room or event, modge podge, scissors and a foam brush. That's it and you are ready to get crafting!


Get out your candles out to measure them. Stand them up and measure them with a ruler. Be sure to leave just a bit of extra length on your tissue paper. It is always best to have a little more than too little. Then cut out your rectangle of tissue paper.

Time to get out your modge podge and cover about 1/3 of your candle. Now lay your paper over the modge podge and gently smooth it out. Tissue paper is very fragile so be sure not to touch it with sticky finger or your paper will lift right off. Just continue on with the same pattern of adding modge podge, paper and smoothing it out until the candle is covered.

When you get the candle covered and find where the edges meet, you need to trim any excess off so that you have very little overlapping.

Photo: Crafting Rebellion

After you have let the candle sit and the modge podge has dried a little you can trim around the bottom of the candle to clean up any edges. If you have any loose edges at the top just add a little more modge podge and smooth it out.

Now, let your candle sit and get really dry. Then you will want to add one more coat of all over modge podge to seal the outside of the candle. The more layers you add, the glossier it will appear and any wrinkles will become less noticeable.

There you have it, a simple and fun way to spice up those plain Luminara candles for any occasion! Now it is time to sit back and enjoy.

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Hannah
All American Christmas Co. 

Lighted Wedding Backdrop

We have all seen the pictures with those beautifully lit backdrop, using Christmas lights and fabric. We might have even been a little envious that we cannot all have one at our wedding or event. Well now with all the DIY projects out there, you can have the photos you've always dreamed of and you won;t have to break the bank for it. I know some people are out there thinking, what lights would I use? How would I attach them? Well that is exactly what we are here for. There are a few perfect lighting options for this project.

Curtain Lights

Curtain lights are great for a project of this sort. They have a uniform look, which is great for backgrounds of head tables and cake tables at weddings. Most people won't want too much going on behind them as far as a pattern of light goes. Simple is better.  These look stunning when draped with a little sheer fabric to soften the glow just a bit. Curtain lights come in white, green and black wire with white (clear) lights.

Globe Lights

Globe lights are a wonderful choice if you want something a little more outside of the box. These lights are something that you could use for a background of a photo booth or even for a wedding ceremony. Since globe lights come in different sixes, you could even consider mixing them up a bit. Try using G40 and G50 bulbs alternating on the string for a whimsical feel. You also might try using clear and pearl white to give your lights a little more depth. These look great hanging in front of sheer fabric or even just right against the wall.

Fairy Lights

Fairy lights, the faithful light string. These are a tried and true form of lighting for all occasions and events. These would make a great background if you wanted something that was much easier to customize. You can buy as many strings as you like and hang them in any pattern you choose. There are many lengths and colors to choose from. There would be something for every budget and decor. These look great in front of or behind fabric.



We have found a great DIY backdrop frame blog too. It's simple, very easy to understand and it is very inexpensive. This is great project for those that want to build their own instead of renting one, which could end up costing hundreds of dollars! Check out, Dandelions on the Wall.

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Hannah
All American Christmas Co.

Wedding Light Inspiration

Yes folks, it is wedding season again. This is such an exciting time for so many people across the country. Young brides are abuzz trying to decide on the perfect decor for their big day. We want you to be sure and not forget about a very crucial part of your wedding day. The lighting. Now we understand that in these times so many people are trying to plan on a budget. We totally understand, lighting might not rank very highly on the "to purchase for wedding" list. We just think you should consider one thought; A well-lit space, a space that utilizes a very carefully thought out light design is key to achieving the right mood and atmosphere for your wedding and reception. The right lighting can be your best friend. It can actually compliment your decor, while still being an element all of its own.

With that being said, lets move on to a few ideas to make the best of your venue with the perfect wedding lighting.

White Wire Curtain Lights back in stock!

We just found out we're getting our shipment of White Wire 150 count Curtain lights back in stock! Order them up before they are gone again. These curtain lights are very popular and we have had many requests for them and we're glad to be getting them back in.

As of 5/3/13 we have these curtain lights, so order early! Click here to check these Curtain Lights

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Zach

DIY Twine Ball Light Garland

It's the time of year that people are getting ready for summer and wanting to get creative with outdoor decorations. We have a simple little DIY project that will help you spice up your patio, party or even your wedding. Let's try to make twine-ball light garlands. It is one of those projects that can get messy and take a little more time but it is something that you can make yourself or even get the kids involved in. You can make them any color you wish, match your decor or make them an accent color. Once you light them, all you will notice is the stunning pattern of fairy lights everywhere.

You are going to have to gather a few supplies.

• Twine - Colored or Plain
• PVA Glue - Can be found in any craft store. 
• Corn Flour
• Warm Water
• Balloons
• Marker
• Vaseline
• Old Tray for Glue Mixture
• A broom or something else to hang the balloons from.
• Light Strings - These can be either traditional mini lights or LED lights.
• Fishing Line
• Spray Paint - If you choose to paint the balls to make them more vibrant. 

First, blow up all of your balloons. Make sure you have one for the number of twine balls you want to make. After you have blown them up, draw a circle around the top of the balloon with your marker so you know where to stop your twine. Last, smear your balloons with a thin coat of Vaseline, so that the twine does not adhere to your balloons. 

Now, tie a piece of string to the knotted end of each balloon, then tie them to the broom or other stand. This will allow you to work more easily with the balloons, but be sure to have a drop cloth or some thing to catch the excess glue mixture.

Next, it is time to finally make your glue mixture. Mix up PVA glue, a few tablespoons of cornstarch and warm water. You want this mixture to be smooth and not too runny, and make sure you have plenty of this mixture, twine is quite absorbent.

Then, take the twine and dip it into the glue mixture, run it through so it is soaked. Begin wrapping it around the balloons, both vertically and horizontally until you  get the desired effect. When you finish wrapping them, snip off the end of the twine and tuck it under another piece so it does not stick out. Repeat this step for all the balloons.

Now, you need to let these dry overnight.After they are totally dry, you might notice they have gotten hard. If they aren't hard they are not dry yet,  let them sit and dry the rest of the way. In the drying process, balloons will begin to pop, if they don;t go ahead and pop them yourself. then pull the remaining pieces out from the twine balls. 

Last, you are ready to spray paint! Give your twine balls a nice coat of paint just to boost the vibrancy of the colors. When that is dry, you are ready to attach them to lights. All you need to do it, push the light down in a hole through the twine and make sure they are secure.

And there you have it, a fun and easy project to add a little extra pizzazz to any outdoor party or space!

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Hannah

All American Christmas Co. 

DIY Origami Light Garland

From: Wit & Whistle

Are you looking for a fun and unique lighting idea for a wedding or special event? We have found one that might be just right.A fun little project we call Origami Light Garland. What could be more fun than a string of glowing paper cubes? These are simple, inexpensive and really fun to create. The possibilities for color combinations and paper patterns are endless.

You will need to get your supplies together first. You need paper in your choice of pattern, just make sure it is thin enough to let light glow through it.A string of lights, either traditional mini lights or LED lights, if you are concerned about a fire hazard.

Now, you will need to cut your paper into squares, about 8.5" x 8.5". You will need enough squares that you have a cube for each bulb on your string. Then you are going to fold your paper as follows:

From: Wit & Whistle

After you have folded all of your paper cubes, all you have to do is poke your lights through the holes. No glue or tape needed. There you have it, it i that simple. Just be sure to let your creativity flow and you will can have a blast doing this little project.

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Hannah

All American Christmas Co. 

Light Your Patio With Patio Lights

Lighting up your patio or outdoor living space can really increase the appeal of your backyard. Just use some bistro lighting to create a fun and inviting outdoor area. With summer coming you are going to want to spend more time in these outdoor spaces, socializing and enjoying cool summer evenings. Luckily we are here to help find the perfect patio lighting that will meet your needs.

Globe Lights will Hang Like Stars in the Night Sky

Try using Patio lights to brighten your patio area, creating a sparkling night sky effect or use bright colors for summery party lights. Spring and Summer patio lighting ideas might include, wedding celebrations,  graduations, summer holidays, and birthdays. Try using them along decks and overhangs, between trees and other natural landscapes and even from wall to wall. 

Choose your bulbs, globe lights come in a variety of sizes and colors. After you have chosen your bulbs, decide on your stringer. These are available in white or green and have many lengths and socket spacing. Choosing the right one for you is just a  matter of decorating taste. 

• Colors include: 
• Clear
• Pearl White
• Satin Multi - Red, Blue, Green, Pink and Orange

• Sizes Include:
• G30 (C7 and C9 Base)- 1 1/8" Diameter
• G40 (C7 and C9 Base)- 1 1/2" Diameter
• G50 (C7 and C9 Base)- 2" Diameter

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Hannah

All American Christmas Co. 

Uses for Rope Light

The flexibility you have when using rope light in home lighting projects are endless. Rope light is one of the easiest lights to incorporate to your decor because there are not many wires to tuck away. Just be sure to measure your light properly. Here are some uses and tips for installing your flex light.

Under Kitchen Cabinets - This is great for a soft or indirect glow under your cabinets. It will also be helpful to have a little extra light shining on your counter tops. To attach these to the cabinets, you can find hooks that will screw right into the cabinets, quick and easy to install and remove.

Transform Trees - Wrap the trunk of your trees in the backyard. It would be easiest to wrap and work with the smaller trees. This will add a little ambient lighting for your outdoor events and parties.

Decorate Your Deck - Wrap rope lighting around the hand rail and deck posts of your deck. Great  for summer
entertaining and just to relax outside on your own deck.

Light Your Path - Line your walkway with flex lighting. This will be simple and great for you or your guests that will be coming and going in the evening.


Now that you have a few ideas on how to use your flex light, let me give you a few tips on how to measure correctly.

Use Twine - Using twine is the easiest way to accurately measure your area for lighting. It is very inexpensive and easy to get around tight and unusual places. Start by securing the twine close to where you want to begin your outline.

Make an Outline - Run it around the perimeter of where you want to use your flex light. Make sure to attach it to key angles, likes corners.

Measure - When you've completed the outline, cut off the piece of twine. Measure with a tape measure, the length of lighting you will need for the project.

Leave Some Slack - Remember to leave about 15% in excess. You want to be absolutely sure that you have to correct amount and only have to cut once.

This can be a really fun project to add a little jazz to different spaces. Try using it in your home or for your next party. Everyone will love the new and unique ideas you can come up with.

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Hannah
All American Christmas Co.

Creating custom Curtain Lights for Weddings

Curtain Lights

One of our most popular blogs is on using curtain lights, the most popular trends in recent memory for weddings and receptions is to use incandescent curtain lights behind some sort of tulle or sheer fabric, this creates a subtle glow and effect that is a great backdrop for any event. Sadly our white wire 150 count curtain lights we have on www.aachristmas.com are sold out until later in the year, and while we do have our commercial curtain lights which are very heavy duty this blog will focus on creating your own custom curtain lights!

To build your own curtain lights you need some male & female plugs, 18 gauge wire, and some mini light strings.

In a nutshell you have to use the wire and plugs to create a long "power strip" you have to measure the plugs out in the spacing you want to go with for the curtain drops, we recommend staying with 6" or 12" to keep it easy to do the footage calculations in your head. You have to modify the female plugs that go in line by cutting out one side of the plug. Click here to view how to modify plugs.  Many companies sell a premade curtain light string that is just a long power strip that you can plug mini light strings into. Be aware of the distance you need to cover before you tackle any project.

When it comes to choosing the right mini light strings for the curtain lights you need to know how tall the lights need to hang down, most customers need around 10 feet of lighted length ( 2.5" spaced 50 count Mini lights work well for this) but depending on your application you'd really need to take a look at the 50 count Mini light strings we offer to find a good match, or maybe even 100 counts if you need TALL curtains.  After you make your power string you simply plug in the light strings and you'll have your very own custom curtain light strings.

Simple Diagram of how to layout Custom Curtain lights

It's good to always have some zip ties on hand to keep any long or extra wire wrapped up and keep things uniform.

Visit http://www.aachristmas.com/vpasp/mini-lights.asp For light strings
Visit http://www.aachristmas.com/vpasp/electrical_supplies.html for Wire and Plugs

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Zach Broyles

New Globe Light Cases.

New Globe Light Cases

All American Christmas Co. is proud to offer Globe lights in smaller cases. Previously we had carried all of our globe lights in cases of 500 bulbs but our most recent purchase was shipped in cases of 250 bulbs so they are smaller, easier to ship (many 500 count shipped oversize), and give you a big savings over buying individual boxes.

Our G30, G40, and G50 Globe light bulbs are great for use on Patios, hanging in Christmas tree lots, Restaurants, and for Weddings. Apart from offering a wide selection of in stock bulbs and wire and light strings. We carry the Christmas light style strings, the Molded Wire, and the twisted wire with ceramic style sockets.

Visit our Globe Lights page to check out all our new Globe light cases and strings.
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Zach

Globe lights for Weddings

Globe Light Bulb on C9 wire.

Globe Lights for Weddings

All American Christmas Co. carries a wide variety of light strings and bulbs that can fit in to about any application or holiday. One of the most popular "Christmas Light" bulbs for use during other events are Globe lights, these round bulbs are a classic style bulb that don't appear at all Christmas-y. These have skyrocketed in popularity in the past few years for us in weddings because almost any theme can find a place for these lamps. This blog will again cover Globe bulbs and their uses in Weddings.

DIY Mini Light Garland

We all know that these days we are trying to do more DIY projects. They help to save money but also they can help you to completely customize the wedding or party to the theme with recycled mini lights and inexpensive cups or cupcake papers. Now who can say no to that? One way to add fun and festive customization is to make covers for your mini lights to string around the room or venue. You can do this in several different ways using several different products. Some people use cupcake pan liners, clear plastic party cups covered with fabric or covering Dixie cups with scrapbook paper that matches your party décor.