Norman Lamps, Inc.

String lighting creates ambiance and decorative illumination through multiple bulbs arranged along electrical cables, transforming outdoor patios, wedding venues, restaurants, gardens, and event spaces into inviting, illuminated environments. Unlike functional lighting designed to maximize brightness for visibility, string lights prioritize creating mood and atmosphere through the visual effect of multiple points of light arranged in patterns or draped across spaces. The result is soft, flattering illumination that makes spaces feel warm, inviting, and special.

The classic market-style string lights, also called bistro lights or cafe lights, feature Edison-style bulbs (typically G40, G50, or S14 sizes) spaced along heavy-duty cable at regular intervals (12-24 inches between bulbs). These create the iconic look seen in European cafes, beer gardens, wedding receptions, and outdoor dining areas. The bulbs are large enough to be visible as individual elements rather than blending into a continuous glow, creating visual interest through the pattern of glowing spheres against the sky or building facades. Available in clear glass (shows visible filament), frosted (softer glow), and colored glass (festive effects).

Traditional incandescent string lights produce warm, inviting light with perfect color rendering and that slight flicker from AC power that feels organic and alive. However, the energy consumption can be substantial – a 50-foot string with 25 bulbs at 7 watts each consumes 175 watts, and multiple strings for a patio or event add up quickly. The bulbs also generate heat, which isn't usually problematic outdoors but limits where strings can be safely installed. Typical lifespan runs 2,000-3,000 hours, requiring periodic bulb replacement in permanent installations.

LED string lights offer dramatic advantages for permanent or frequent-use installations: 85-95% energy savings (a 2W LED bulb replaces a 7W incandescent), 15,000-25,000 hour lifespan eliminating frequent replacement, cool operation allowing installation in more locations, and exceptional durability with no filaments to break when bulbs are jostled or experience wind loading. Premium LED string lights now use LED filaments arranged inside vintage-style glass envelopes, creating appearance virtually identical to incandescent bulbs while delivering all the LED performance advantages. The upfront cost premium for LED typically pays back within 1-2 seasons of regular use.

Heavy-duty construction is essential for string lights installed permanently or in commercial settings. Commercial-grade string lights use 18 AWG or 16 AWG wire rated for outdoor use, weatherproof sockets with rubber gaskets protecting connections from moisture, and UV-resistant insulation that won't degrade from sun exposure. The gauge matters because multiple strings connected end-to-end create substantial current flow – undersized wire causes voltage drop resulting in dimmer bulbs at the far end of long runs. Quality construction also ensures strings survive years of outdoor exposure, storms, temperature cycles, and UV radiation.

Installation considerations include proper support structure (mounting points on buildings, poles, or posts to support the string weight), appropriate spacing and height (typically 8-10 feet height for clearance, with supports every 10-15 feet to prevent excessive sagging), electrical planning (GFCI-protected circuits for outdoor use, proper capacity for the total load), and weather preparation (how to handle snow loads, high winds, or the decision to temporarily remove strings in severe weather). Permanent professional installations often use specialized mounting hardware and techniques beyond simple hooks.

Seasonal and event string lighting serves temporary needs – weddings, parties, festivals, and celebrations where lighting transforms spaces for specific occasions. These applications prioritize visual impact and flexibility over long-term durability. Temporary string lights can use lighter construction, and the shorter operating hours mean even basic bulbs provide adequate life for the event duration. The ability to create magical atmospheres quickly makes string lighting central to event decoration.

Common Bulb Sizes: G40 (40mm globe), G50 (50mm globe), S14 (sign bulb), ST40/ST58 (Edison style), various specialty shapes

Spacing: Typically 12-24 inches between bulbs, various lengths from 25 feet to 100+ feet

Technologies: Traditional incandescent (warm glow, 7-11W per bulb), LED (1-2W per bulb, long life), LED filament (vintage look with LED efficiency)

Construction: Light duty (seasonal/temporary), heavy duty (permanent commercial installations), weatherproof ratings for outdoor use