Outdoor paper lanterns can be a charming addition to any garden, offering subtle lighting to help you enjoy your favorite outdoor spot.
The lanterns come in many different shapes and sizes, as well as an array of colors. They can transform a garden party or lend a festive air to just about any outdoor gathering. Paper lanterns can be used almost anywhere that electricity is available, but don’t despair if you want to light up an area where there is no electricity, because they are also available in battery powered styles.
Lanterns can add a nice touch to a gazebo, adding a little lighting or a lot, depending on your taste. You can hang just a few lanterns to light the inside of the gazebo, or you may want to hang smaller lanterns to accentuate the frame of the structure itself. It can also be striking visually to hang the lanterns inside the structure at varying heights.
Hanging paper lanterns is similar to stringing Christmas Lights. Paper Lanterns come with a hole at the top and bottom, which allows them to be hung so that the bulb hangs down to illuminate the lantern. The lanterns are usually made out of bamboo or metal and colorful paper. When purchased, the lanterns are flat and must be pulled open like an accordion.
If you have a favorite tree, hanging paper lanterns from its branches can create a dazzling effect, especially if you choose multicolored lanterns. You can use many small ones to accentuate the shape of the tree, or just hang a few larger lanterns to make the tree appear to be blooming at night.
If you are an avid gardener, this subtle lighting can also be used to show off your prized geraniums or tomato plants well after dark. Stringing the lights along the fence in your garden can create nighttime effects too. If you have a special bench that you like to spend time in during the day, why not illuminate the area so you can enjoy your garden by moonlight?
The lights can also be used to illuminate decks or porches to add a little colorful light after dusk. If you are lucky enough to have an old-fashioned porch, these lights can be strung along railings and archways to literally make your house glow. To create a dramatic effect, purchase white lanterns and string them with multicolored lights, in hues of green, blue, red, yellow, orange and purple.
At a party, paper lanterns make great centerpieces for the table and can be used for weddings, graduations, birthday parties and anniversary celebrations. The lanterns can also be a beautiful addition for night weddings or receptions, with white lanterns adding a traditional classic glow to your celebration.
Why not add some lanterns pool-side or near the pond for a romantic glow? Lanterns can easily be used to illuminate entryways, arbors, pagodas, tables and railings. Try them for romantic dinners in the garden, or moonlight picnics on the deck.
Whatever your lifestyle or taste, there are many ways to use paper lanterns to brighten up your property.
