Lighting a path to the door

Why are twinkling lights so transfixing? Ever since 6th grade, when I urged my mom to let me hang clear Christmas lights in my bedroom one summer, I’ve always loved how low wattage lighting has the ability to transform a space.

I’m not talking about utilitarian landscape lighting. I’m talking about lighting that’s inviting, warm and romantic — lighting that makes you want to linger to watch them twinkle. Boring old pergola? Awkward side yard? Transform it into a usable, beautiful outdoor space starting at $39.99 for 21′ of clear globe lights.

A small patch of dirt transformed into an intimate dinner spot

Hanging paper lanterns for casual outdoor dining on a patio

A magnificent old tree becomes a storybook landmark at dusk