I always wanted a room that I could go to and decorate as I saw fit. When I purchased a new home a few years back, I was ready to build my man cave until my wife decided a huge back porch would be much better suited for the spot I had picked out. So, I still do not have my man cave but I do have a back porch that would be large enough to land a small plane on but for the cover. I must admit that I do enjoy the porch quite a bit and we have had several parties and other events on our back porch since it has been built. However, were it not for the proper design of the outdoor party light that we took the time to plan and install, many of these gatherings would have been cut short once darkness fell.
The hours of research that we put in paid big dividends as we found we were able to install lighting that could perform more than one function. Some of our lights provide for the repelling of mosquitoes, as well as, the lighting. There are also lights in the functional areas such as the cooking and food prep area that also serve to provide for safety and security when not being utilized for some gathering. We also have lighting that serves to decorate in addition to its lighting function. These lights are mostly string lighting that range from cows to chili peppers. While we were working on the patio lighting, we also chose to go ahead and provide lighting around other areas of our property that highlight some of the more interesting focal points and also serve to add safety and security for the entire property.
Even though you may not have a huge back porch or patio where you entertain, if you do any entertaining outdoors, you will be wise to invest in a quality outdoor party light scheme. The great thing about this type of lighting is that there are so many different styles available that it is easy to acquire lighting that displays your personality and individuality. You can choose traditional lighting or go with some whimsical lighting or simply string Christmas lights if you desire. There are also choices in the way many of these fixtures are powered if electricity is not readily available in the area you will be using. You will find the string lighting available in battery powered units, or like many other type fixtures, solar powered models may fit your needs.
I would suggest that you take the time to develop an overall plan for the area you intend to light with your outdoor party light plan. The time spent planning an overall design will yield much better results and will likely save you money as you prevent discarding lights that turn out to be wrong for the function you thought they would perform. Speaking of function, this is the best place to start with your lighting plan. Consider the different function areas that need lighting and simply provide brighter lighting in certain areas and more subtle lighting in the others. Just remember that the type lighting you are providing is for a fun area and you should provide illumination that will promote enjoyment and not just meet your practical needs.