Guest Picks: Stretch Out Summer With Outdoor Lights
I am such a sucker for lanterns. To me, nothing creates the perfect ambience in an outdoor space better than a lantern or a string of lights. And doesn't everyone look better in candlelight or subdued lighting? I hung up a strand of outdoor lights, and it immediately elevated the space and made it more enjoyable to hang out outside. Even my teenagers, who normally don't notice that sort of thing, immediately mentioned that the backyard space felt so "cozy."
You don't need to spend a lot to get a few lanterns or lights out onto your patio. I have curated a few from some of my go-to sources. A few have high price points, but many are priced well enough that it wouldn't be hard to pick up several for your outdoor space. — Barbara from Markova Design
Fisherman's Pendant - $299 » This pendant needs to be hardwired, but it would be fabulous hanging in a pergola over a dinner table, or flanking a door to the house with two of them. It gives a nautical, beachy, summery look to an outdoor space.
Rattan Ball String Lights - $16.99 » These rattan outdoor string lights would bring rustic elegance to your patio.
Westinghouse Flameless Pillar Lantern Set, Silver - $12 » This fabulous light comes at a great price point. I am loving the flameless option! No worrying about fire hazards, pets or little kids around. Wouldn't it be a great addition to a campsite as well?
Sphere Globe Lanterns - $24.50 » The simple globe glass lantern gives a modern twist to an outdoor classic. I would love to have a few of these hanging outside around my patio.
Room Essentials Clear Globe Lights - $12.99 » I have a string of these hanging on my patio. I feel like I am at a Sonoma vineyard while sipping on my glass of chilled white wine.
Room Essentials Hanging Solar Lantern, White - $9.99 » This solar-powered lantern would be perfect in a tight space, and no candles means no fear of flames! Group several together around the yard, hanging from branches or roof gables to create a warm ambience.
Duomo Lanterns, Weathered Bronze - $59 » I love the shape of these lanterns. Group some of varying heights together for an amazing look on the patio.
Cargo Pendant String Lights - $65 » Aren't these the most adorable string lights? Like tiny industrial pendants, they would add that extra flair to your outdoor space.
Starry String Lights, Diamond Lights on Silver Wire - $15 » This is ingenious! Wired lights that you can wrap anywhere — just think of the possibilities!
Solar Wicker Tabletop or Patio Lantern - CAD 19.88 » I love the solar-powered lantern idea, as you don't have to worry about finding a lighter or the wind blowing out your candle.
Solvinden Solar-powered Light Chain - $19.99 » Solar-powered string lanterns are the perfect solution for those who don't have access to an electrical outlet in their outdoor spaces.
Glass & Wire Hanging Lantern by Soiree Supply - $7.95 » I love the simplicity of this lantern. It's very understated and yet so chic.
Porcelain Hurricanes, Dotted - $19 » Oh my, I love the light that these hurricane lanterns cast. Fill them with citronella candles to ward off any bugs. In the fall, simply bring them in to keep the warmth of summer glowing in your home.
Colin Cowie Outdoor Lantern with Flameless Candle, Small - $19.95 » I love this lantern. I might have to get a few for my backyard.
Orb Lanterns - $9 » These are stunning. I am a sucker for glass candleholders. I wish I had these when I lived down south because they would have been perfect for housing citronella candles.
European Café String Lights, Galvanized - $99.95 » Gosh, these are adorable! Reminiscent of a pretty party dress, these lights are ready to light up your outdoor space.
LED G40 Tinsel Globe String Light Set, Warm White - $32.95 » I love this tinsel light set. It adds just the right amount of sparkle to cast a shimmery light.
Dotted Mercury Hurricanes - $14 » These are stunning hurricane lanterns. I love their shine and glamour. They're perfect for outdoors and in.
Threshold String Lights, Dragonfly - $12.99 » Aren't these dragonfly lights adorable? They are the perfect touch of whimsy for your backyard space.
Portfolio Outdoor Pendant Light - CAD 32.98 » I have always wanted a hardwired light hanging from a pergola. I think this lantern would be perfect. Now I just need someone to build me a pergola!
Next: The 3 Top Ways to Light Up Your Landscape