Find Your Perfect Festoon Lights in Four Simple Steps

Choosing the perfect festoon lights doesn't need to be complicated.Whether you're lighting a small balcony, a family entertaining area or a large commercial venue, we'll help you find the perfect lighting solution in four simple steps.By the end of this guide, you'll know exactly which bulb style, mount style, spacing and installation pattern is right for your outdoor space.

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Step 1: Which Bulb Style Do You Prefer?

This is the biggest decision because it defines the overall look and personality of your outdoor space.

Whether you prefer timeless, contemporary or statement lighting, each bulb has its own unique style and character.

Choose the bulb that best reflects the look you'd like to create.

Please note: The G45 Clear and G45 Milky bulbs are not dimmable.

 

Tip: If you're unsure where to start, our S14 and A60 Clear are our most popular and versatile everyday bulbs, making them an excellent choice for almost any outdoor space.

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Step 2: Which Look Do You Prefer?

Once you've chosen your bulb, decide how you'd like it displayed.

Flush Mount

Bulbs sit close to the cable for a clean, architectural look that complements modern outdoor spaces.

Ideal for:

• Contemporary homes
• Modern pergolas
• Straight cable runs
• Permanent installations
• Low ceilings and rooflines

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Drop Hang

Bulbs hang below the cable to create a softer, more decorative look with added depth and visual interest.

Ideal for:

• Outdoor entertaining areas
• Garden parties
• Hospitality venues
• Weddings and events
• Homes and gardens
• Framing outdoor spaces

Let's have a look visually to see how these styles might look once hung with multiple bulbs. 

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Still Can't Decide?

There's no right or wrong choice, simply choose the style you love.

Both options use the same commercial-grade rubber cable, IP65 waterproof lamp holders and premium LED bulbs. The only difference is how the bulbs are positioned on the cable.

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Step 3: How Much Light Do You Want?

This is where many people become confused, but it's actually very simple.

Instead of thinking about 50cm or 1 metre bulb spacing, think about the overall look you'd like to create.

Fuller Look (50cm Bulb Spacing)

• More bulbs
• More light
• More decorative

Perfect if you'd like your festoon lights to become a standout feature while providing beautiful illumination.

Example:

A 20-metre installation will feature 40 bulbs.

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Open Look (1m Bulb Spacing)

• Fewer bulbs
• A cleaner, more minimalist appearance
• Ideal for larger spaces

Perfect where subtle architectural lighting is preferred.

Example:

A 20-metre installation will feature 20 bulbs.

Which Lighting Style Is Right for Me?

Choose the Fuller Look (50cm spacing) if you want:

• A richer, more decorative display
• More bulbs and more light
• Maximum visual impact
• Smaller entertaining areas

Choose the Open Look (1 metre spacing) if you want:

• A cleaner, more minimalist appearance
• Fewer bulbs
• Larger open spaces
• Subtle architectural lighting

Sometimes it's best to just think about the total number of bulbs and that will help you decide. If a small pergola area do you want the 20 bulbs or 40 bulbs above your head? 

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Step 4: How Will You Hang Your Lights?

Your installation pattern will influence both the atmosphere you create and the amount of festoon lighting you'll need.

For example, a simple Perimeter Pattern generally requires less cable than a Zig Zag Pattern, while feature installations such as a Central Fan Pattern often require additional cable and a more customised installation.

There are no rules when it comes to designing your outdoor lighting. Sometimes all that is needed is a simple row of festoon lights. 

Choose the installation pattern that best suits your space and creates an atmosphere you'll enjoy for years to come. The best part about our connectable lighting system is you can always extend your design at a later date or you can even swap our light bulbs and change the look! Yes, that's right. You might decide you've had enough of the S14 teardrop look and want some more statement lighting so you could swap these bulbs for our large globe G80 Bulbs. Your design and installation can change, grow or stay the same over time. 

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Still Not Sure?

Our friendly team is always happy to help.

Simply send us:

• A photo of your outdoor space
• A few basic measurements - width and length
  
• Any initial thoughts as such as which areas you want to light up or a preferred install hang or a list of bulbs you are thinking about. If you have no idea then just leave this part out. That can be our job! 

We'll recommend:

• The best bulb style
• Flush Mount or Drop Hang
• 50cm or 1 metre bulb spacing
• The ideal installation pattern
• The cable lengths you'll need

Whether you're lighting a small courtyard, a family entertaining area or a large commercial project, we're here to help you create a warm, inviting outdoor space you'll enjoy for years to come.

Contact Love Your Lights

Email: sales@loveyourlights.co.nz

Phone: 09 401 6660