Tip of the Week: Light Your Way

I've been inspired by all the beautiful and varied lanterns I've seen in stores, online, and in catalogs lately.  Now that your yard and deck are party-ready, be ready to shed some light and ambience on your outdoor decor with a collection of lanterns.  Not only are they the perfect disguise for those oft-needed citronella candles to control unwanted guests, but they're a wonderful and cozy alternative to flood lights or porch lights once the sun goes down.

For large open spaces you can cluster a variety of sizes around your container plantings.  Suspend smaller ones from the inner spokes of your umbrella or from shepherd's hooks in your yard or along your walkway.  Illuminate your outdoor dining table with one or more and don't forget to place a few strategically where you need a bit of light, such as in smaller seating areas or near a step that might be missed in the dark. 

Of course, I have some beautiful lanterns in my catalog on my website, such as the classic Drake Lantern and it's coordinating minis, the Firefly Lanterns, perfect for votive candles (pictured here).  The removeable glass cylinders will house your pillars or can be used as vases if you want to mix in some flowers.  If you want glass on the sides to protect your flame from breezes, try our beautiful Carriage House Lantern, with it's gold metallic finish and interesting detail.

But in all fairness, you can find lovely and affordable lanterns at Pottery Barn or my beloved Ballard Designs.  I've even spied some oversized but still inexpensive ones at Pier One.  In other words, keep your eyes open-- they abound in stores now!  The beauty of lanterns is that they can be enjoyed year-round.  Bring them inside in the winter time to add pizazz to a hall table or bookcase or even the powder room.  Now THAT's getting your money's worth!