Nothing makes the season sparkle quite like some quality holiday lights! Nick Payne, who owns Alabama Outdoor Lighting with his wife, Kelley, shared some illuminating thoughts on the topic.
“My favorite thing about heading into Christmas is seeing the lights glow everywhere. They carry such a nostalgic magic, instantly taking me back to childhood when everything felt full of wonder,” he said. “Their twinkle surrounds me with the warmth, love and joy of family and friends, reminding me of the simple beauty and cherished memories that make Christmas feel like home.”
When asked his best piece of advice when it comes to considering how far to go with Christmas lights (on a scale of bah, humbug to Clark Griswold), he laughed, “When it comes to Christmas lights, my best piece of advice is to find that sweet spot between simple and spectacular — the place that makes you feel the magic. You don’t have to be Clark Griswold to create something beautiful, and you don’t have to be a Scrooge to keep it simple. Go as far as it brings you joy, because at the end of the day, Christmas lights should feel nostalgic, warm and full of the spirit of the season.”
Alabama Outdoor Lighting services customers all year long. In addition to other year-round and seasonal lighting, Payne said planning for the holiday rush starts early.
“For us, the planning for Christmas lights begins as soon as we take down the lights,” he said. “Many clients start the moment the Halloween lights come down. As soon as one season wraps up, we’re already dreaming up the sparkle and glow of the next.”
Ever wanted to know how many bulbs are used on a 2,000-square-foot home or business?
“It will take about 200–250 C9 bulbs to make the roofline sparkle — though once you start wrapping trees and lighting hip and ridge lines that number can climb faster than Santa up a chimney!” Payne smiled.
And of course, the Big Christmas Light Debate: Solid white, multicolored or something else?
“About 70% of people still choose the classic warm white lights — it’s timeless and cozy, and it gives that traditional Christmas glow,” he said. “But we’re definitely seeing a growing trend toward color. More clients are asking for playful themes like a Candy Land design, a bright Barbie-inspired pink display or even a full Grinch-themed setup. It’s all about making the lights reflect the joy and personality of the season!”
You can check out a gallery of the company's work at www.aloutdoorlighting.com or on Instagram or Facebook. For a free estimate or to set up a nighttime demo, call or text 256-338-5995.
Nick Payne said he’s seen some fantastic light displays (Kansas City, Country Club Plaza, Union Station) but…
“The best outdoor holiday light display I’ve ever seen is right here in my hometown — Cullman Christkindlmarkt.The entire place feels like stepping into a Hallmark movie — streets lined with glowing lights, the smell of warm drinks in the air and rows of vendors offering treasures big and small. People travel from all over the world to experience it, yet it still feels like home. Between the lights, the atmosphere and the way the community comes together, it captures everything I love about the season. It’s the kind of Christmas magic you carry in your heart long after the season ends.”