For numerous Christmas Aficionados, one of the paramount delights is embellishing the exteriors of their dwellings during Christmastime. Retrieving lights from storage, ascending ladders, and fastening lights to eaves and trees is an annual custom that marks the onset of the festive season for millions of Christmas Admirers across the globe.
Yet, there's an issue.
Many resolute Christmas Aficionados reside in places without extensive outdoor property to adorn. Millions inhabit apartments, townhouses, or condominiums, where they lack substantial outdoor space for hanging Christmas lights.
Does this imply that these millions of Christmas Enthusiasts must forgo the pleasure of exterior holiday decorating?
Absolutely not!
Behold the Light on the Balcony!
The majority of Christmas Aficionados not living in houses do have access to a small outdoor area, typically a balcony (or a petite patio). Although a balcony isn't as vast as an entire home's exterior, it's still suitable for Christmas decoration.
So, if you are a Christmas Aficionado residing in an apartment, townhouse, or condominium, here are some suggestions for optimizing your outdoor space.
Evaluate Your Area
Before planning your balcony's decor, assess the amount of space available. How much wall space do you have, for instance? (Caution – don't lean too far over that railing!) What are the height and width of the railing?
Also, examine if there's an electrical outlet on your balcony. If not, you might need to run an extension cord through a window or door temporarily. (You can use a temporary plug to prevent cold air from seeping in through the gap. And ensure that it's safe to keep a window or door slightly ajar and unlocked.)
Be certain to use only outdoor-rated extension cords. And follow these recommendations for safe extension cord use.
You'll also need to verify if outdoor Christmas decorations are allowed on your premises. Some properties do not permit outdoor decorations (can you say GRINCH!?). Others have specific rules regarding the placement and attachment of exterior decorations.
Illuminate the Space
Similar to homeowners, Christmas lights will likely be the core of your festive decorations. However, in your case, you'll need to be rather selective about your lighting choices.
While you might be inclined to use large C7 or C9 bulbs popular for outdoor decor, consider using smaller but powerful Wide Angle Conical lights. These lights, favored by professional Christmas decorators, offer a robust visual impact in a compact form.
Since you will probably be attaching your lights to surfaces like metal railings or brick walls, finding attachment solutions might be a concern. But fear not; for every surface, there exists an ideal attachment method. You can discover how to attach your lights to any surface with this guide.
Wreaths Are Wonderful
A balcony railing is a perfect spot for hanging a Christmas wreath or even a series of them.
Indeed, a balcony railing adorned with a series of wreaths outlined in Wide Angle Conical lights makes a visually appealing display. Various sizes of wreaths are available, ensuring one fits your balcony railing perfectly.
Christmas bows too are well-suited for displaying on balcony railings.
Space for a Tree?
A balcony or patio can be an excellent location for a Christmas tree. If you live in a compact apartment or condo, your balcony or patio might be the ideal place to exhibit a full-sized Christmas tree.
An artificial tree is probably best for outdoor use. Ensure the tree size is appropriate.
Think Creatively
Maximize your small space by thinking outside the conventional. Creativity can truly enhance your outdoor display, no matter how small.
For instance, specialty decor like animated snowfall tubes and icicle lights can create an exotic look when hung from the balcony ceiling. Dangling Holispheres also add a fun and unique touch.
Framing your balcony doorway with lush Christmas garland greenery is another option. And as their name suggests, patio string lights are perfect for patio or balcony displays – not just for Christmas, but for any festive occasion.
No Need to Feel Excluded
You might not have a grand home with a vast lawn to decorate. However, that doesn't mean you can't indulge in the joy of outdoor Christmas decorating.
Just assess your balcony or patio space thoughtfully, consider these tips, and then unleash your inner Clark Griswold. You can enjoy just as much fun as any homeowner, without the risk of falling off ladders or rooftops!
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