Screen Mom is a a small business creating gentle, streak-free cleaning solutions for all your screens that are odorless and free of abrasive chemicals.
The set includes the spray and an extra-large, scratch-free microfiber cloth. The formula has no alcohol, ammonia, or harmful phosphates and will gently clean HDTVs, PC monitors, Kindle Fire, tablet, laptops, smartphones, Apple Mac products, iPhones, and more!
Promising review: “This stuff is absolutely incredible. I’ve had my MacBook for a few months now and in the college environment of lugging it back and forth to class, eating around it and doing group projects it had turned into a grease machine. I had tried just about every version of microfiber cloth, the sprays that promise they don’t streak, and just about every electronic wipe on the market. To no avail, I went to Amazon and with the glowing reviews, I couldn’t say no to giving it a try. Got it today and I am just blown away. Never have I felt the need to write an Amazon review, but here I am because it’s just. that. good. Attached are pictures for proof, it works people! Ordering a travel size version to keep in my backpack as we speak!” —McKenzie Meuleveld
16 Aesthetically Pleasing Photos Of Maximalist Home Decor
maximalism instead. I totally welcome this time of embracing the eccentric when it comes to home decor.
So, if you haven’t heard, let me be the first to tell you that minimalism is out and maximalism is in! I spend a lot of my time scrolling the r/maximalism subreddit, where people celebrate their creativity with decadent displays of swirling colors and differing patterns. What makes it even better is that even though it may look expensive, it’s more affordable than splurging on overpriced home decor at department stores because you can get most pieces from thrift shops (we love sustainability) or by repurposing things you already own that are just laying around the house.
Here are 16 photos that fully demonstrate all the pillars of maximalist decor:
1.
I’ve seen enough specifically themed living rooms where every single thing HAS to match. I’m over it! There are no rules with maximalist decor. You are the theme!
2.
A “gallery wall” is a major part of maximalism. If you want your pieces to look a bit more cohesive, this can easily be achieved by using the same frame for each of them:
3.
Or, you can go for frames that are slightly similar, but a teensy bit different:
4.
Even if the frames don’t match at all, it can still work and look stunning! The goal of maximalism is to take up space and become ensconced in your favorite things:
5.
Like I said, there are no rules. You don’t need to use any frames at all if you don’t want to! You could even overlap the art on your gallery wall and create a moment that’s more gallery and less wall:
6.
Beyond just hanging up pictures, I love seeing the most random things being used as decor. It turns your home into a crafty little game of “Where’s Waldo?” because why shouldn’t you put a purple meteor on the wall?
7.
If having a coffee mug clock and a framed picture of a lobster on the same wall is wrong, then I don’t want to be right:
8.
There are zero creative restrictions when it comes to maximalism, so you don’t have to stop at the wall. You can hang things — like tapestries — on the ceiling if you want to:
9.
You can get creative with things you already own — like books:
10.
Or plants:
11.
Another approach to maximalism is splashing bright colors and patterns all over:
12.
Like this kitchen that makes me feel like I’m cruising down Rainbow Road in Mario Kart:
13.
Or this living room that pushes the boundaries with its bright blue wall juxtaposed with a black and white striped wall:
14.
Maximalism doesn’t even have to be a bright explosion of color either:
15.
Even the ~dark and stormy aesthetic~ girlies can get in on the action:
16.
This room brings together all of the elements: a gallery wall with different pieces that somehow flow together along with mixing colors and patterns:
No matter what your personal aesthetic is, there’s a way for you to maximize your home and create a one-of-a-kind living space that’s totally independent to you and only you. Let me know in the comments which one of these rooms was your favorite!
This wall art set comes with a hanging kit, but reviewers say the included frames are light enough to hang with Command Strips! 👏🏾
Sign Win is a New Jersey-based small business that provides tons of beautiful posters and art prints, making decorating your home easy as heck.
Promising reviews: “It is exactly as pictured! It’s really helped to tie our living room together. We went with the recommendation of keeping the installations 1.5 inches away from each other and they line up well. Even just the middle sun part looks cool, but the extensions of the sun rays truly make it a statement.” —chelsea0421
“Great experience with this seller. Art was packed well and came with all the hardware to install easily. The art itself is gorgeous! It is exactly as pictured (though it’s much more impressive in person). I would and will shop with this seller again. I am so happy with the way it turned out!” —hoviousa
Get it from Sign Win on Etsy for $44.99+ (available in two sizes, three frame colors, and three art styles).
Wooden candlestick holders are a popular home decor item that can add a touch of warmth and elegance to any living space. They are not only practical but also perfect for creating a cozy and romantic atmosphere. With so many designs and finishes available, it’s essential to consider your personal style and existing decor to choose the right candlestick holder. The quality of the wood, design, size, and price are all essential factors to consider, along with customer reviews that provide valuable insights into the user experience. Expert tips, such as considering the type of candle and ease of cleaning, can also be helpful when selecting a candlestick holder that will last for many years to come.
OLEEK Wood Candle Holder Set for Home Decor
The OLEEK Wood Candle Holders for Table Centerpiece is a farmhouse-style wooden candlestick holder set that comes in three sizes (9″, 8″, 6″) and fits 7/8″ candles. Made of high-quality wood, these antique decorative candles are perfect for fall rustic home decor. Use them as a table centerpiece for special occasions or to add warmth to your living space. The varying heights of the candle holders offer versatility in styling and can be used together or separately. The OLEEK Wood Candle Holders for Table Centerpiece is a must-have for those who appreciate natural and rustic decor.
Rated 9.7 based on 10
Rustic farmhouse style, Comes in a set, Fits standard candles
May not fit all decor styles
Creative Hobbies Unfinished Wooden Candlesticks Pack of 6
These 4 Inch Tall Unfinished Wooden Candlesticks with Metal Candle Holder Cup Center are perfect for DIYers and craft enthusiasts. The pack of 6 allows for multiple projects and customization options. The wooden material is easy to paint, stain, or decorate to match any home decor style. The metal candle holder cup center securely holds candles in place, making these candlesticks both stylish and functional. They are also lightweight and easy to transport, making them a great choice for events or gift-giving.
Rated 9.4 based on 10
Unfinished for customization, Metal cup center for safety, Wholesale pack of 6
May require sanding
LIFE SENSES Wooden Candlestick Holders Set of 3
The Wooden Candlestick Holders for Taper Candles Set of 3 are a must-have for anyone who loves to add a touch of elegance to their home decor. Made from high-quality wood, these candle holders are designed to fit standard taper candles and come with gold cups and decorative wooden cubes. Perfect for use on a fireplace mantel or console table, these candle holders are an affordable way to add a touch of luxury to any room. Plus, their sturdy construction ensures that they will last for years to come.
Rated 9.3 based on 10
Luxury design, Set of 3, Versatile decor
No taper candles included
MOSROAD Wooden Taper Candle Holders Set
The Set of 4 Wooden Taper Candle Candlestick Holders is a must-have for anyone looking to create a cozy and rustic atmosphere in their home. Made from high-quality wood, these candle holders come in four different heights – 5.5”, 7.5”, 9”, and 11” – making them perfect for any taper candles. These farmhouse-style candlesticks are ideal for use as a dining table centerpiece or as a decorative accent in any room. Their simple and elegant design is sure to complement any home decor and add a touch of warmth to your space.
Rated 9 based on 10
Rustic design, Multiple heights, Sturdy wooden material
Candles not included
SDUSEIO Wooden Candle Holders Set
The SDUSEIO 3 Pieces Wooden Candle Holders are a great addition to any home decor enthusiast’s collection. Made of high-quality wood and designed with a farmhouse aesthetic, these candlesticks come in three different sizes (4.92 inches, 6.88 inches, and 7.87 inches) to accommodate a variety of candles. Their unfinished appearance allows for creative and personalized DIY projects, making them perfect for those who love to customize their home decor. Whether used to hold pillar or taper candles, these candle holders will add a warm and cozy ambiance to any room.
Rated 8.5 based on 10
Versatile sizes, Unfinished for DIY, Adds farmhouse charm
May require sanding
LampLust Wood Candle Holders Set of 3
The LampLust Wood Candle Holders for Candlesticks come in a set of three and are perfect for those looking to add a touch of mid-century modern decor to their home. Made from high-quality wood with brass accents, these taper candle holders provide a warm and inviting atmosphere. Whether used for a romantic dinner or as a stylish addition to your living room, these wooden candle holders are a great addition to any home.
Rated 8.2 based on 10
Beautiful wooden design, Brass accents add elegance, Set of 3 holders
May not fit all candles
Howsilay Wood Candle Holders Set of 3
The HOWSILAY Candle Holder Set includes three rustic wooden candlestick holders that are perfect for modern farmhouse decor. These candle holders fit both 3/4″ and 7/8″ taper candles, making them versatile and easy to use. The natural brown wood adds warmth and charm to any table centerpiece or mantle display. Made with high-quality materials, these candle holders are sturdy and durable. They are the perfect addition to any home looking for a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
Rated 8 based on 10
Fits two taper sizes, Stylish rustic design, Set of 3
Not suitable for larger candles
SPETYORT Wooden Candle Holders Set of 3
The Wooden Candle Holders Set of 3 are a beautiful addition to any home decor. Made of unfinished wood, these candlesticks can be easily customized to fit any style. They are perfect for taper candles and can be used as table centerpieces for rustic weddings, parties, or birthdays. The set comes in a pack of 2 and is a great value for the price. These candle holders are sturdy and well-made, and their natural look adds a warm and cozy touch to any room. They are also lightweight and easy to move, making them a versatile decor option. Overall, the Wooden Candle Holders Set of 3 are a great choice for anyone looking to add a touch of rustic charm to their home.
Rated 7.7 based on 10
Set of 3, Unfinished wood, Rustic style
May require sanding
Uziass Wood Candle Holders Pack of 3
Introducing the Uziass Wood Candle Holders, a pack of 3 rustic farmhouse wooden pillar candle holders that add a touch of traditional elegance to any room. These candlesticks are the perfect size for a 7/8″ taper candle and are suitable for use as a table centerpiece or mantel decoration. Crafted from high-quality materials, these candle holders are sure to become a favorite item in your home decor collection. Their sturdy design ensures that they will last for years to come, making them an excellent investment for any home.
Rated 7.4 based on 10
Rustic farmhouse design, Comes in a pack of 3, Fits 7/8″ taper candles
May not fit larger candles
Gurfuy Wood Candle Holders Set of 5
The Gurfuy Wood Candle Holders Set of 5 are a great addition to any home decor. Made from natural unfinished wood, these candlestick holders have a rustic and earthy feel that will complement any style. They come in a set of 5, making them perfect for table settings, wedding centerpieces, or simply as decorative accents around your home. The bead cylinder design adds a unique touch to the classic candle holder shape. These candle holders are sturdy and well-made, ensuring that your candles will stay put and burn evenly. Overall, the Gurfuy Wood Candle Holders Set of 5 are a versatile and charming addition to any home.
Rated 7.1 based on 10
Set of 5, Rustic design, Versatile for occasions
Unfinished wood
FAQ
Q: What are the benefits of using wooden candlestick holders?
A: Wooden candlestick holders are a great choice for those who want to add a rustic or natural feel to their home decor. They are also a great option for those who prefer eco-friendly and sustainable materials. Wooden candlestick holders come in a variety of styles and can be easily customized with paint or stain to match your decor.
Q: Are crystal candlestick holders fragile?
A: Crystal candlestick holders are delicate and should be handled with care. They are prone to chipping and cracking if dropped or knocked over. However, with proper care and storage, crystal candlestick holders can last for many years and add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any room.
Q: Do metal candlestick holders rust easily?
A: The durability of metal candlestick holders depends on the type of metal used. Some metals, such as stainless steel and brass, are less prone to rust and corrosion. However, if exposed to moisture or left in a damp environment, even these metals can rust over time. To maintain the appearance and longevity of metal candlestick holders, it is important to keep them dry and clean them regularly.
Conclusions
After reviewing a variety of wooden candlestick holders, it’s clear that this category offers a diverse range of options to fit any decor style. From rustic farmhouse to elegant luxury, there’s a wooden candlestick holder set for every taste. The products we reviewed were of high quality and offered unique features such as gold cups and decorative cubes. Overall, wooden candlestick holders are a timeless addition to any home decor and we encourage readers to consider incorporating them into their own spaces.
As a Homes writer and interior design obsessive, I love nothing more than spending my downtime decorating or sprucing up our family home. And whether you live in a cozy apartment or palatial house, we all want to create our ideal abode. Trouble is, when you don’t know where to start, it all can all seem rather overwhelming.
While pulling a room together may seem easy on Instagram or social media, there are some basic rules and tips I’ve learned over the years. These top tips will help you achieve the right balance of functionality yet still look stylish. What’s more, these clever design ideas will instantly transform your space, regardless of size, without having to spend a fortune on an expensive renovation!
I’m obsessed with home makeover shows — and these are the 3 mistakes people always make.
1. Go big with mirrors
Large mirror in bedroom (Image credit: Shutterstock)
One of my favorite tricks is the power of mirrors. I absolutely love using mirrors in my home, and the bigger the better. Mirrors are a great way to reflect the natural light across the room, make a small room look bigger, and feel airy and more open. For effective results, lean a large mirror against a wall opposite a window so the light will bounce off it. In small spaces, opt for mirrors that go from floor to ceiling to maximise the light.
In addition, if you want to brighten a dark room, a mirrored wall will also do the trick. Wall-mounted mirrors work well to reflect light, give the illusion of a bigger space, and instantly make your room feel open and airy. More importantly, it will give your blank wall a stylish and contemporary makeover.
While glass can often be problematic if you have children and pets running around, you can choose plexiglass acrylic mirror. Bendable acrylic wall mirrors much like this Shatterproof Wall Mirror ($29, Amazon), are designed to be safer and won’t get accidentally broken or damaged.
Alternatively, if you don’t have a mirror, any reflective surface such as stainless steel, glass and metallic accessories will do the job.
2. Buy the right-sized furniture for the space
Big sofa in small space (Image credit: Shutterstock)
Have you ever bought something for your home, only to find out that it’s way too big (or small) for the room? That’s why it’s important to always check the dimensions of furniture before buying, and find a style that’s in proportion to the room. So if your space is too compact for a conventional, rectangular dining table, a circular table will take up less room.
Getting the proportion right can be tricky if you’re buying furniture/decor online, and the reality is far different from the pictures! You may find it helpful to use an AR app such as IKEA Place to get a better idea of how an item of furniture will fit into the space you have.
Another top tip is to elevate your furniture. Instead of heavy-set pieces of furniture, and cumbersome sofas — especially in compact rooms, choose sofas and armchairs with narrow arms, and raised on taller legs. The trick here is when you see more floor underneath, it will give the illusion of a bigger room, and allow natural light to flow better.
In fact, buying the wrong-sized furniture is one of the top decor mistakes that are making your home look smaller than it is.
3. Make use of vertical space
Bathroom items in storage boxes (Image credit: Shutterstock)
Furniture doesn’t always have to be spread out. Another top tip is to utilize vertical space — especially if you lack floor space or have a compact room. Depending on how strong your walls are, you can easily wall mount floating wall shelves, vertical cabinets, or clever storage units to free up valuable floor space.
For home offices, hanging smaller things on wall-mounted rails can be handy, as you’ll have more desk space making it less cluttered. And for small bathrooms, wall-mounted storage is one of the things organized people keep in their bathrooms. Just don’t forget to check what’s behind the wall before you start drilling holes everywhere!
There are also plenty of stackable storage ideas to keep everything in order. For instance, if you want to keep children’s toys tidy, storage organizers like this Humble Crew Extra-Large Toy Organizer ($79, Amazon), will save you valuable space.
4. Layer your fabrics
Sofa with throws and cushions (Image credit: Shutterstock)
There’s nothing better than coming back to a warm and relaxing home to snuggle in. And layering up with chunky throws, soft blankets and plush cushions on sofas and beds work well to achieve that cozy factor.
In addition, it’s good to mix-and-match the textures and color scheme so that everything doesn’t look the same. You want to create an inviting feeling that is also aesthetically pleasing.
Interestingly, soft furnishings are one of the clever ways to reduce noise in your home. Plush furniture like an upholstered sofa, bench or even plump cushions work well to ‘soften’ an area — diffusing unwanted sounds. Thick rugs on hardwood floors can also help to block out some noise, and also prevents furniture from making much noise when it’s moved around. So it’s a win-win!
5. Conceal the clutter
Storage stool and basket in living room (Image credit: Shutterstock)
When designing a space, we often forget about functionality, and practical storage solutions. To avoid cluttered spaces, conceal the clutter with multi-purpose furniture such as ottoman benches, blanket boxes or woven baskets. These are clever ways of hiding clutter, as well as doubling up as extra seating or a handy footstool for your guests. Plus, if you have cluttered shoes piling up by the front door, here’s 7 space-saving ways to organize shoes in your entryway.
In addition, if you have unsightly cables or items lying around, there are plenty of creative ways to disguise ugly items in your home. These include things like cable management organizers or sleeves, soap dispensers, or attractive tissue box covers.
And if you have one of the best TVs for family entertainment, cozy movie nights or a decent gaming session, check out these clever ways to decorate around a TV.
6. Don’t overcrowd your walls
Gallery wall in living room (Image credit: Shutterstock)
Whether it’s family photographs, abstract wall art, or stylish posters, pictures on the walls can add a personal touch. However, there is a danger of going overboard with the gallery wall — making your walls look like an eyesore.
When learning ways to decorate a blank wall, it’s advisable to stick to the ‘odd number rule’ when displaying pictures. So rather than hanging in even numbers, stick to three or five on one wall, or even one large frame. This rule is considered to be more visually appealing, and looks less cluttered. If you want to hang two pictures side by side however, make sure the frames are identical, and hung at the same height. Although this should really be 57 inches, generally, pictures should be hung at eye-level.
Secondly, if you just want to hang one large wall art, position it so that the center of the artwork is approximately 48-56 inches from the floor. However, if it’s positioned above a sofa or table, the bottom of the frame should begin at least 6-12 inches above the back of the sofa or tabletop.
7. Don’t go overboard with trends
Peacock chair in room (Image credit: Shutterstock)
If you follow decor trends on social media or TV shows, it can be easy to get carried away with buying things on impulse. By definition, trends come and go, and just because everyone is doing wood panelling, doesn’t mean it will look good in your home!
Define your personal style, and keep your interior scheme simple and classy. After all, less is more! It’s always best to stick to neutral styles, tones or accessories, and incorporate bursts of bold color in soft furnishings, accessories or even lush houseplants. This way, you can change it up whenever you feel like it, or style your home according to the changing seasons.
What’s more, splurging on the latest trends and new furnishings just for the sake of it can make your home look cheap, according to interior designers.
It’s time to deck the halls or at least start gathering everything you’re looking forward to adorning your space with before December inevitably sneaks up on us.
Whether your aesthetic consists of all things bright red and green or a neutral palette, Target has loads of decorations to get both you and your home in the holiday spirit. It just dropped a Christmas Shop brimming with indoor and outdoor decor like throw pillows, blankets, stockings, garlands, wreaths, and more from brands like Threshold, Joanna Gaines’ exclusive collection—Hearth & Hand with Magnolia—and Wondershop, Target’s in-house brand for all things holiday.
Keep scrolling to see the 12 home decor pieces we’re eyeing right now at Target—all under $35.
Target Holiday Decorations Under $35
Threshold Lit Village Christmas Stocking Holder, $30
Wondershop 30 by 18-Inch Buffalo Plaid ‘Merry’ Outdoor Mat, $10
Threshold Artificial Flocked Tree in Woven Basket, $10
Hearth & Hand With Magnolia Stripe Woven Throw Blanket, $20
Hearth & Hand With Magnolia 12-Inch Decorative Wooden Bead Garland, $15
Threshold Embroidered Winter Scene Faux Shearling Lumbar Pillow, $25
Wondershop 22-Inch Pre-Lit Flocked Mixed Pine Wreath, $20
Wondershop 10-Piece Battery Operated Ceramic Village Kit, $30
Hearth & Hand With Magnolia Chunky Rib Knit Christmas Stocking, $15
Wondershop 16 by 16-Inch Reversible String Lights Pillow, $10
Hearth & Hand With Magnolia ‘Tis the Season Christmas Wall Sign, $20
Threshold Lit Village Christmas Stocking Holder
Target
When hanging your stockings by the chimney with care, don’t settle for just any old stocking holder. This Threshold Lit Village option offers spots for four stockings underneath a light-up village of red, white, and green-adorned homes. One shopper called it “perfect” for holding their entire family’s selection of stockings, whereas another person called it “magical” and “just as cute in person.”
Wondershop 30 by 18-Inch Buffalo Plaid ‘Merry’ Outdoor Mat
Target
If you’re hosting several guests this holiday season, snag this $10 buffalo plaid outdoor mat so visitors can wipe their feet off at the door before entering. And if you have pets, this is also an opportune spot for your pup to wipe their paws before dragging unwanted dirt inside. At just $10, you should grab an extra to keep at the backdoor of your home as well, or opt for this jolly snowman motif instead.
Threshold Artificial Flocked Tree in Woven Basket
Target
If you live in a smaller space like an apartment and don’t have a ton of room to spare for a 5-foot tree, this artificial one with flocked branches is a festive alternative. It comes in a woven basket with a flat base so you can place it on your coffee table, windowsill, or on the floor for some warm, welcomed holiday spirit. It’s available in three different sizes and can play host to a handful of your most treasured ornaments, and if you’re in need of a few, Target’s got you covered there, too.
Hearth & Hand With Magnolia Stripe Woven Throw Blanket
Target
An easy way to jazz up your living space is with throw pillows and blankets like this striped woven throw from Joanna Gaines’ exclusive Target collection. Drape it over your armchair or couch for a pop of color in your living room, or lay it at the end of your bed to make your sleeping space extra cozy. It’ll also come in handy when it’s time to get situated in your favorite pajamas and hot cocoa for upcoming holiday movie nights. One shopper called the fringe-accented throw “lovely” and “high quality.”
Keep scrolling for more of our holiday decor favorites under $35 available at Target.
Hearth & Hand With Magnolia 12-Inch Decorative Wooden Bead Garland
Target
Threshold Embroidered Winter Scene Faux Shearling Lumbar Pillow
Target
Wondershop 16 by 16-inch Reversible String Lights Pillow
Target
Hearth & Hand With Magnolia ‘Tis the Season Christmas Wall Sign
Target
Hearth & Hand With Magnolia Chunky Rib Knit Christmas Stocking
MILAN — Luxury online retailer Giglio.com will kick off the holiday selling season with its new lifestyle section, the company told WWD.
In addition to its high-end fashion and accessories, the Palermo, Sicily-based company on Monday will begin selling furnishing accessories, designer tableware, high-tech accessories, textiles, books and magazines from brands like Brunello Cucinelli, Versace Home, Etro Home and others.
The retailer said its international customer base amounted to 145,000 shoppers at the end of the first semester this year.
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In a statement sent to WWD, Giglio said the lifestyle division is key to its larger growth strategy. This year, the company released its new Android and iOS app and signed a partnership with Vestiaire Collective.
The retailer, which is publicly listed on Euronext, a regulated market organized and managed by Borsa Italiana, posted sales of 51.1 million euros in 2022, up 35 percent year-over-year.
“The diversification towards home decor is the result of a careful market analysis that has revealed how fashion, home decor, and design have synergies and complementarities that target a well-defined category of customers,” said Giglio.com president and chief executive officer Giuseppe Giglio, who hails from the family that started the boutique in the 1960s. Under Giglio SpA, the Giglio family runs six physical boutiques in Palermo.
In recent years, peer fashion e-commerce sites have tapped into the potential of interiors: LuisaViaRoma, Ssense, Mytheresa, Net-a-porter and Moda Operandi have all expanded into the home category in recent years.
For Giglio.com, growth last year was accomplished across geographies and especially outside Europe. The company generated 70 percent of its sales abroad, with non-European countries representing 50 percent of its total revenues. The U.S. and the Middle East, as well as Japan and South Korea, are among the best-performing areas, increasing in the double- and triple-digit range. For instance, business in the U.S. jumped 40 percent, only partially dented by a contraction in consumer confidence in the last quarter of the year, while South Korea and Taiwan increased 66 percent and 80 percent, respectively.
In 2022, the company improved its international user experience, debuting Korean and Japanese versions of its website. “The Far East is where our youngest clients are concentrated, they are real, digital-savvy Gen Z-ers embracing our platform via mobile and app,” Giglio said at the time.
In July 2022, it also debuted a Liquid blockchain-based bitcoin used as a token for loyalty programs geared at those geographies.
Here’s a bright idea — it’s time to work smarter, not harder on your holiday lights this year. Smart LED lighting not only allows you to create festive lighting you can control, but it can also save you money on your electric bill.
We’ve found top-rated, customer-loved smart holiday lights that can be used to showcase the colors and lighting effects you want on your Christmas tree, Christmas wreath, outdoor holiday decor and more. Plus, most of our smart light picks can be controlled using your smartphone. How genius is that?
Christmas home decorating ideas using smart lights
Transform your entire home into a holiday wonderland that your family, friends and neighbors will love. Let’s take a look at amazing smart lighting options that make decorating your home for the holidays super simple.
Philips Hue Christmas Festavia 65′ string lights
Philips Hue
Even Santa would approve of decorating your Christmas tree, as well as the inside and outside of your home, using Philips Hue Festavia 65-foot smart string lights.
Each string includes 250 individual mini smart LEDs that are app controlled and can work in conjunction with all other Philips Hue smart lighting products that use a Philips Hue Bridge (sold separately or as part of a smart lighting kit).
The Festavia string lights are also available in a 130-foot length that includes 500 individual mini lights ($360). Both sets can be set up to sync with your favorite holiday music.
A smart Christmas tree: Mr. Christmas Vermont Spruce
Mr. Christmas
One of the best decisions you can make this holiday season is to adopt smart lighting in all aspects of your Christmas decorating, starting with the Christmas tree. The Mr. Christmas Vermont Spruce is seven feet tall with a 48-inch diameter. It comes with 400 mini-LED smart lights built into the artificial tree, allowing for quick and stress-free setup. The lights can be voice-controlled via Alexa, enabling you to instantly change the lighting color or lighting mode
In addition to all white or multi-colored lights, you can opt to have all of the lights display just red, green, blue, light blue, yellow or purple. Lighting modes include steady, sparkle, firefly, flip and fade. You’re also able to create a schedule for the lights to turn on and off, or switch between colors and scenes automatically.
A flexible and customizable decorative light string: Govee Christmas lights
Govee
For your indoor or outdoor holiday light decorating, the Govee Christmas lights are an affordable alternative to string lights. However, these offer just as many customization options.
This 66-foot-long string light set includes 200 mini-LEDS that are fully programmable. Because it’s IP65 rated, this light strip can be used indoors or outdoors. The flexible string can be wrapped around a tree, staircase, fence or pillar. It can also be hung around the edge of a ceiling, around a doorframe, or on any wall. Use your creativity to discover unique ways of using these bright and colorful smart lights throughout your home.
Once set up, the Govee Christmas lights can be programmed to display your choice of 16 million colors, using a variety of pre-programming lighting effects. The lights can even sync with whatever music is playing. There are 99 pre-set lighting scenes to choose from. You have full control over these lights (and all other Govee smart lighting products) using Alexa voice commands or the easy-to-use Govee mobile app (for iOS and Android-based devices).
If you’re looking for more traditional holiday string lights, but want to control them using a smartphone app, we suggest these Twinkly Strings smart lights. The 65.5-foot string includes 250 mini-LEDs, each of which can display more than 16 million colors, so you can decorate your home with beautiful light and color.
Using the Twinkly mobile app, it’s easy to control one strand of string lights or multiple strands at the same time. This means all of the lighting can sync perfectly within each room or area of your home. Using the app, you’re also able to create a schedule to turn the lights on and off, have the lighting change colors or patterns at predetermined times, have the lights sync with the music that’s playing, or instantly switch to a light color and pattern that you want. The lights also accept voice commands. Because they’re waterproof, you can set them up indoors or outdoors.
While it’s possible to set up multiple 65.5-foot Twinkly Strings lights to work together, there’s also a cluster version of the lights that includes 400 mini-LEDS on a 19.5-foot strand. This variation allows you to create different visual effects using a larger number of smaller LED lights (within a smaller space) that can also display over 16 million colors.
Offering yet another way to decorate the outdoor areas of your home, Govee offers its permanent outdoor lights package. Throughout the year, these lights can brighten a porch, terrace, or front door area of your home with bright decorative white lights. During the holiday season, these same lights can transform your outdoor space with holiday colors and animated light sequences.
These smart lights come in 100-foot strands that contain 72 LED eaves lights that are waterproof and controllable using the same Govee mobile app that works with all of the company’s smart lighting products. The lighting set also responds to voice commands via Alexa or Google Assistant.
Each of the lights can alternate between 16 million user-selectable color options and together showcase any of the 75 pre-programmed scenes that are accessible via the app. Each light has a maximum brightness of 26 lumens. Since these lights are designed to be attached permanently to the outside of your home, special VHB glue and clips are provided.
Holiday wreaths with integrated smart lighting: Twinkly pre-lit wreath
Amazon
Using the same mobile app that controls other smart lighting products from Twinkly, you’re able to control the 50 mini-LED lights that come pre-wired within this artificial holiday wreath that has a two foot diameter.
The smart lights within the wreath can display more than 16 million colors in a variety of customizable or pre-created lighting patterns. The app is available for iOS and Android mobile devices.
The wreath’s lighting responds to voice commands via Alexa or Google Assistant. To coordinate perfectly with this wreath, your Christmas tree and other holiday decor, Twinkly also offers a nine-foot, pre-lit garland ($115). It utilizes 50 fully controllable smart mini-LEDs and works with the same app.
Decorative smart lighting you can use all year long: Nanoleaf Shapes
Nanoleaf
Nanoleaf offers a variety of decorative smart lighting products. Most come in a collection of flat tiles that get hung on a wall in whatever pattern you choose. This LED lighting kit includes nine hexagon-shaped tiles that are app-controlled. Each tile can display more than 16 million colors. Using the Nanoleaf app, you’re easily able to choose from hundreds of pre-created animated light patterns, have the lights sync with music, or display whatever color(s) and patterns you want.
Throughout the year, Nanoleaf Shapes can add decorative ambience to any room, but during the holidays, the lights can mimic the Christmas lights strung throughout your home or on your tree.
If nine hexagon-shaped titles isn’t enough, expansion kits with hexagonal and different size triangle-shaped titles are sold separately. What we love about these smart light products is that you can mix and match the Nanoleaf tiles and create whatever pattern you desire on your walls. Then you can choose the colors and animated light patterns that are displayed at any given time. Each tile sticks to the wall using removable mounting tape that’s supplied.
Use regular light fixtures to display holiday lighting: Philips Hue A19 LED smart bulb starter kit
Philips Hue
One of the great things about the Philips Hue home smart lighting ecosystem is that there are literally dozens of options to choose from, including stand-alone light fixtures with color-changing smart bulbs built into them, smart light strips, decorative lights and replacements for recessed ceiling lights.
The expansive Hue product line also includes standard A19 LED light bulbs that can replace the traditional light bulbs within your existing light fixtures. Doing this transforms those light fixtures into smart lights within minutes.
To take advantage of the Philips Hue smart lights, you need to either purchase a Hue Hub (that’s sold separately) or acquire the necessary hub as part of a Hue Starter Kit.
We recommend the Philips Hue A19 LED smart bulb starter kit because it includes the required hub, along with four standard size (A19) light bulbs that can be used within any of your existing light fixtures. Once this starter kit is set up, you can easily add any additional Hue smart lighting products (including more A19 bulbs, which are sold separately) to your home and control them all using the same Hue mobile app.
Each A19 smart bulb can display many shades of white, as well as more than 16 million colors. And in addition to selecting the colors, you’re also able to set each bulb’s brightness. The lights can be controlled one at a time, in groups within a single room, or you can use the app to control all Hue lights at once. Using a few on-screen taps or voice commands, it’s possible to create customized lighting scenes or choose from thousands of pre-created animated scenes –- including many that are holiday-specific.
Upgrade your artificial Christmas tree: Fraser Hill Farm 12-foot flocked Christmas tree with smart lights
Amazon
This holiday season, make things easier on yourself with two simple moves. First, swap out the real tree for a super-realistic artificial Christmas tree – no more fussing with the live ones. Second, bring some smart lighting magic to your tree to make it the ultimate holiday showstopper.
Meet the Fraser Hill Farm 12-foot flocked Christmas tree with built-in smart LED lights. It’s a breeze to set up, and it stands at 12 feet tall with a 76-inch diameter. If that’s too big for your space, don’t worry – Fraser Hill Farm offers similar artificial trees in 6.5′, 7.5′, or 9′ heights.
This tree has 5,483 lifelike, flocked tips that give it the charm of a traditional cut tree. It’s designed to last for years and dazzle you every holiday season. Plus, it comes with a bunch of cool lighting options to suit your mood.
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Jason R. Rich
Jason R. Rich (www.JasonRich.com) is an internationally recognized consumer technology expert with more than 30 years’ writing experience. He’s also an accomplished author and photographer. One of his most recently published books, The Remote Worker’s Handbook: How to Effectively Work From Anywhere ($24.99, Entrepreneur Books) is now available from Amazon and wherever books are sold.
Skosh, a new business that’s a coffee shop and a home decor store, is scheduled to open Nov. 14 at 2555 Shelby St. (IBJ photo/Dave Lindquist)
A new business across the street from Garfield Park aims to attract customers who appreciate a pour-over coffee while in the mood to buy a couch, lamp or piece of art.
Skosh, 2555 Shelby St., takes its name from slang meaning “a small amount,” and store founder Haley Hilts describes the concept as being a bit of coffee and a bit of home decor.
“It’s a lifestyle studio where everything you see you can buy,” said Hilts, owner of interior design company Authentique Design Collective. Even the coffee mugs are for sale.
On the surface, Skosh is an eye-catching gathering place defined by eclectic new and vintage furnishings. It’s also a place set to continually change because all items are for sale.
The 1,600-square-foot shop is scheduled to open Nov. 14. Business hours are planned to be 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday through Tuesday.
Skosh will be closed on Wednesdays, which are reserved for staff members to move out items that have sold and to bring in items that will alter the shop’s appearance.
Mindy Sly, who co-owns Skosh with Hilts, said items won’t be sold out from under patrons who are hanging out.
“When large pieces are purchased, we don’t want to disrupt the flow of business,” said Sly, owner of interior design company Urban Sly Designs. “If you want a sofa, we’re not going to kick people out and say, ‘Get up, you have to go.’ ”
Sly, who grew up in Rushville and attended Ball State University, first met fellow designer Hilts, a Center Grove High School alum who played volleyball at Lynn University in Florida, by sending an online question related to work.
“A bond was made instantly,” Sly said.
Skosh founder Haley Hilts, center, is flanked by co-owner Mindy Sly, left, and master barista Nyla Elizondo, right. (IBJ photo/Dave Lindquist)
Hilts said she adheres to a “no formula” philosophy of design. Visitors can expect a variety of styles at Skosh, with the common denominator being “well-made furniture” sourced by Hilts and Sly.
“It doesn’t have to all be from the same era or be the same texture,” Hilts said.
Sly said a designer’s role is to match a client’s personality to a physical space. A universal feeling of familiarity is a goal at Skosh, she said.
“I want people from every walk of life to come in and feel like it’s home,” Sly said.
Seven employees will work at Skosh, where barista Nyla Elizondo oversees the coffee program. The initial beverage offerings will include flavors from Illumine Coffee Co. as well as tea and non-alcoholic mocktails.
PB&J Factory, a sandwich concept that formerly served customers at AMP food hall in the 16 Tech innovation district, will be an on-site food partner at Skosh.
Hilts said she’s eager for open-minded visitors to check out the shop’s decor.
“You may not love everything,” Hilts said, “but I bet there’s one thing in here you might like.”