Posts Tagged ‘It’s A Wonderful Light’
5 New Traditions To Start this October
October is upon us and we’re super excited to start your season off with 5 new traditions to start this October! This year, we have a whole 5 weekends in October to fill your time with fun, family and festive new traditions. Including outdoor family fun, football (of course), sweet treats, frisky flicks and spooky adventures. As the season is transitioning and the leaves are changing, now is the time to fall into new family traditions! Check them out…1. Pumpkin Patch
Fun for the entire family! Grab the kids, your favorite sweater and a smile and head out to your local pumpkin patch or farmer’s market. What greater way to spend the day than to take in the splendor of the local fall harvest? Pumpkin patches offer more than just pumpkins too, check out Didier Farm’s Pumpkin Fest, located in Lake County. They are a family owned and operated farm since 1912, bringing fun fall traditions such as pumpkin painting, hayrides, a bountiful farm-stand and more! After you’ve picked your favorite pumpkin, hold a family pumpkin carving or painting contest! This tradition is a whole day packed full of FUN!2.Football Party
Get ready for a touchdown! Grab your team (aka friends) and invite them over for an afternoon of football and yummy treats. Get the whole family in on the activity and dress up in your favorite team colors. For pregame snacks, check out these winning recipes. During halftime, get outside and play a game of touch football, or simply throw the football around. We only have a few more weeks of mild weather in Chicago this year, so jump outside and enjoy the fresh air while you can! PS: Go BEARS! 3.Celebrate National Cookie Month
Did you know that October is National Cookie Month? That’s right! In addition to the traditional trick-or-treating that comes with this month, we’ve got an extra reason to inspire your sweet tooth. Cue the cookie cutters, chocolate chips and frosting and dust off those baking pans for a delectable new tasty family tradition. Have each member in the family bake their favorite cookies and enjoy all month long. You can even bake up a batch and bring it to your neighbors, friends and loved ones- for a pleasant, sweet surprise. This tradition has its extra benefits as it’s a great dish to bring to your next outing or gathering. Make sure you take advantage of this nationally recognized month- it’s only here for 31 days- that’s the way the cookie crumbles! 4.Halloween Movie Night
A night in with the family watching your favorite Halloween flicks, enjoying monster munch popcorn and thrills & chills! Set up the living room with Halloween lights to set the ambiance. Kill the lights, take protection under a cozy blanket and settle in for a spooky, memorable and fun evening. Whether your poison is scary or classic family fun, you’ll be certain everyone will enjoy the ghosts, ghouls and laughs of this new family tradition. A few of our favorite movies to get in the Halloween mood are Hocus Pocus, The Nightmare Before Christmas and of course, Halloween!5.Visit A Haunted House
This tradition goes without saying…it’s simply all about finding the perfect attraction for you and your family! There are many attractions throughout Chicago and the Chicago suburbs- all sure to provide a fun, spooky time. An evening sure to provide a night full of screams, scares and classic Halloween memories to last throughout the years. Faint of heart? Don’t worry there are many local attractions that offer both family fun spooks to bone thrilling chills! Check out this link to find your perfect level of freight. Have any other October traditions you like to celebrate? Share them with us! Also, don’t forget the decorations! It’s A Wonderful Light is all set with your perfect Halloween or Fall outdoor decor-check them out here. As always, enjoy the little moments leading into the best season ever!!!12 Reasons to Hire a Professional Holiday Lighting Company
1.TIME
Save yourself time to enjoy the holidays this year. When you hire us to install your display you get more time to spend actually enjoying the season, less time worrying about your tangled lights and display.2.LED LIGHTS
We use the highest quality LED lights for all of our displays. These lights look the same as incandescent, but they are much brighter and provide a luster you can’t get from ordinary lights. Best part is, they SAVE you up to 80% energy costs compared to regular lights. Now that’s beautiful and eco friendly- go GREEN this year with IAWL!3.DESIGN
Our professional designers come to your house, learn about you and your property and design your display custom to your vision. You’ll even be able to see what your display will look like in our virtual design program BEFORE you make any commitment.4. INSTALLATION
Our friendly installation crews are trained to install each display with the utmost care. They work year-round installing displays, not just the holidays. Your display is installed with property friendly clips and fasteners, all cords are safely and neatly hidden, and you don’t have to worry about climbing ladders or shivering in the cold making your display look just right. We handle that for you!5.MAINTENANCE
We all know what Chicago winters can be like. A big snow storm, or freezing temperatures put a light out? No problem. Just give us a call within 48 hours of any incident and we’ll be out to fix your display. That’s right, 48 hours and your display is back to looking shiny and new. 1 phone call and you can go back about your business, not having to step outside!6.TAKE-DOWN
Come season’s end, our crews will be back to take down your display with the same attention to detail and care as your installation. Our crews make note of each detail for your display and store it in our system so next year your installation and display is the same beautiful work of art as the previous year. Keep your ladders, mittens and gloves- we’ve got your take-down covered.7. STORAGE
After take-down, we safely package and store your entire display, including all accessories and store it in our temperature controlled facility until next year. Before each year’s installation we test ALL lights before install to confirm everything is working up to its optimum performance.8.COLD WEATHER
Handling outdoor lights in Chicago anytime after October can be tricky. Specifically because we all know how cold it gets. Not to mention the longer you wait, the colder it’s going to get. Stay inside warm and cozy, let us face those freezing temps while you sit inside and enjoy a nice cup of cocoa!9.FOOTBALL
Do we need to say more? NFL or your favorite college team-don’t miss the game because you were stuck outside hanging wreaths, garland and lights! The Bears only have 17 games each season, don’t miss a single one due to hanging holiday decor.10.WREATHS & GARLAND
Mixed noble, pre-lit wreaths and garland are a HUGE trend this year! We only use the highest quality greenery, and offer you the discounts we receive. Why? Because it’s YOUR product and we want to make sure it’s maintained and properly handled so you can get years of use out of it while using IAWL to install your display. The mixed noble greenery we offer is pre-lit with LED lights (you choose the color!), pine-cones and beautiful red bows. It’s the real deal!11.FREE QUOTE
We come out to your home, evaluate your property and vision and provide you with a no commitment FREE QUOTE. You name the date and time, and we’ll be there. What have you got to lose?12.BEST ON THE BLOCK
No more attempts at DIY holiday decor. Show up your neighbors and impress your holiday guests this season with the brightest, best looking house in the neighborhood! Be the envy of the block with your beautiful, professional, no hassle display installed by It’s A Wonderful Light. Everyone will wonder how you make it look so easy! Don’t wait until the last minute, our crews and professional designers are out in YOUR neighborhood providing quotes and installing for both Fall & Halloween displays and Holiday Displays. The sooner you schedule, the sooner you’ll be able to relax and cross one more thing off of your long holiday “to-do list”. So contact us today for a FREE quote and in the meantime, kick back and enjoy the season watching football and spending time with loved ones. With one less thing to worry about, you’ll have plenty to enjoy the season. As always, wishing you a beautiful weekend and GO BEARS!Building Traditions | Professional Holiday Lighting
Here at It’s A Wonderful Light we wholeheartedly believe in building traditions through professional holiday lighting and decor year after year. Over the past decade, we’ve had the special pleasure of bringing holiday spirit to homes and businesses all over Chicagoland through lights, garland, ornaments and more. This goes without saying that the holidays are our favorite time of year. Yep, we’re the ones who anxiously look at our calendars and count down the days, hours and minutes until holiday season is here. That special time of year when you can actually see the joy and cheer manifesting all around you; the smell of pine needles and cinnamon in the air, the serendipitous encounters with pleasant strangers, the sounds of Christmas carols playing on the radio, the family gatherings that seem so long overdue…and of course, the bright, beautiful lights cascading down every street you turn. Now that right there, that is what we feel the holidays are all about. Simply put, we just can’t get enough of the holidays. We sleep, breath and live it everyday! That’s why year after year we continue to build traditions for families and businesses all over Chicago and Chicago Suburbs. And as traditions go, we always pull out our lookbook of our displays at each summer’s end to get even more excited for what’s yet to come. We couldn’t help but to share our tradition with you. So, sit back, relax, and take a look at the traditions we’ve proudly put into place. Let your inner holiday spirit delight in our favorite season of all, who knows, you may just find a new tradition for yourself![RPG id=563]
Feeling a little holiday spirit yet? We sure hope so. As you can see we offer a full array of design options for each display. The way we see it: traditions are unique, therefore, each display is designed and installed with your vision in mind. Whether you’re interested in a simple, classic look, or you want to completely deck the halls, you can be certain that your display will be designed and installed with the smallest of details in mind. As you can see, we offer the full line: Roofline, Mini-Lights, Garland, Wreaths, Ornaments and more! We weren’t kidding when we said we’re filled with holiday spirit! Oh, and did we mention all that comes with a custom It’s A Wonderful Light display?Check it out…- Free quote: one of our cheerful sales reps will come to you and discuss your vision. During this visit, we can get a great idea of what you’re hoping to acheive, offer suggestions, answer questions and even show you what your display will look like with our virtual design program. After the first visit you’ll know what your display will look like and have the price point.
- Installation: When it comes to installing holiday decorations, It’s a Wonderful Light is second to none. Our installation crews receive extensive training on the use of ladders, lifts, electrical supply and demands, and above all, safety. As a highly skilled and fully insured company, you can rest assured that your decorations will be installed quickly, correctly, and without damage to the property.
Here are a few of the extra details that we put into every project:
- Timers are installed so all of the lights are turned on at the same time.
- All extension cords and wires are hidden away, protecting them and leaving a clean look.
- We tape all extension cord connections eliminating moisture build up that can trip the buildings circuits.
It’s a Wonderful Light takes pride in every decorating project we do, and our goal, as always, is to bring you cheer through your holiday display. We go through extensive training with our crews insuring the up most safety for our workers and clients properties. Our installation crews are trained for latter use, lift and bucket work and electrical allowing for a clean and simple installation process.
- We install timers so all of the lights are turned on at the same time.
- We zip tie extension cords to the outside gutters, leaving a clean look and preventing GFI’s from tripping.
- We tape all extension cord connections eliminating moisture build up.
- We attach all our C9’s or Light Links with plastic clips that are removable at the end of the season, no stapling is ever used.
3. Maintenance: We only use high quality products and we always take every precaution to prevent product failure, there may be times when you experience a problem with your decorations. In this event, our service crews are on call to provide you with the best customer service in the industry. Product failures are often fixed on the same day they are reported or within 48 hours of your maintenance request. Even if only one bulb has burned out, we will be there to replace it, and at no additional charge. Win! No running out in the blistering snow with your jammies on anymore!
4. Take-Down, Clean-Up & Storage: When the season comes to an end, our take-down crews reverse the installation process, with the same care and attention to detail. We’ll take down your product, packing it away until the following season. We also make detailed descriptions of how your decorations were installed, and even take pictures and draw diagrams, to ensure we get the installation right season after season. Unless otherwise agreed upon, we will take down your project no later than the end of the 3rd week in January and store the products for you in our climate controlled storage facility. Yay! Those days of tangled holiday lights are OVER!
Are you imagining how bright this holiday season will be when you get your display installed by us? What are you waiting for? Get the perfect display this year, professionally installed by It’s A Wonderful Light. It’s never too soon to plan, and we’re already out and about giving quotes and scheduling installations for this season. Contact us for a quote today. If you simply can’t wait until the holidays, check out our Fall & Halloween displays here. We install all year round, ensuring perfect, bright traditions 365 days a year.
How You Can Serve, Honor and Remember 9/11 Today
September 11, 2001 will always be a tragic day in American history. In the years since the 9/11 attacks, it has become a day to honor the victims and survivors by doing good and giving back. We’ve proven as a country that we can step up, stand united and together accomplish good things after such a tragic disaster. As we honor Patriot Day as a recognized National Day of Service and Remembrance today, let’s work together and continue to remember, respect and honor the lives lost and families stricken by the 9/11/201 attacks on our great nation. Here are a few ways you can honor the fallen and recognize those who have fought and continue to fight for this beautiful land we call home.
1. Volunteer
A great way to give back to our Nation on this day is to is to serve your fellow man. Visit your local Food Pantry, VA or donation center and offer your time. Simply dropping off a bag of canned goods, a good book, or lending your ear to a Veteran or someone in need. The possibilities are endless and are only limited by your imagination. Volunteer to serve! Even the smallest act of service is a way to honor those we lost on 9/11. 2. Fly Old Glory
Honor those who lost their lives on September 11th by flying true Old Glory! It’s American. It’s patriotic. It shows love and support for your country. Don’t have a flag pole? Change your profile picture on Facebook to that of an American flag. Waving the stars and stripes is a symbol of respect and honor, certainly worthy of this day. 3. Write A List Of Things You’re Thankful For
If you’re unable to give your time today, try writing a list of all the things in your life that you’re thankful for. This is something we too often forget to do. There are so many things to be thankful for. This great country we live in, for one. Your family, friends and loved ones. The little things we so often take for granted. While writing down all of the blessings you have in your life, remember those who sacrificed to give you these things to be thankful for. 4. Donate Blood
Following the 9/11/2001 attacks, Americans were so very generous lining up at the Red Cross to donate blood. As the years have passed on, fewer and fewer people are donating, which is why the Red Cross has teamed up with 9/11 Day to encourage people to donate blood as a way to remember and pay tribute to September 11th victims and those who rose in service after the attacks. If you’re not squeamish of needles, this could be a very honorable way to serve and remember today. You can join the Red Cross & 9/11 Day movement and donate up to September 13th. Click here to find local blood drives in your area.5. Thank A Local Serviceman or Servicewoman
Whether it be someone you know who has served or is currently serving for America, or a local fireman or police officer. Take a moment out of your day today to say “thank you”. You can write an anonymous note and place it on their windshield, give them a simple smile or wave, or drop off baked treats to your local fire house or police station. It’s because of these brave men and women that so many were saved on 9/11, and that we’re protected day in and day out for their endless sacrifice to keep us safe. From all of us here at It’s A Wonderful Light, we will never forget the innocent lives lost on the tragic September 11th events and we are continually grateful for the sacrifices so many have made and continue to make to afford us our freedom and safety. Today, we encourage you to serve, honor and never forget.5 End-of-Summer Traditions To Start This Year
Here at It’s A Wonderful Light, we believe that there is nothing better than a tradition. A special custom shared between loved ones that is passed on from generation to generation. Traditions aren’t just for the holidays; they should be celebrated all year round, and since we just love sharing new traditions, we put together a few of our favorite end-of-summer traditions we think you will enjoy…
1. Backyard Family Movie Night
Playing in a backyard near you: backlit Christmas lights, your favorite summer flick, popcorn, and a new family tradition.
What a better way to spend quality time with your Family than to share a favorite flick underneath the stars- in your own backyard?! A DIY movie night outdoors is a magical way to close out the summer. All you need is a white sheet, a projector, popcorn, blankets and your favorite flick. Brighten up the ambiance by stringing some lights around the yard, sit back and enjoy. See how you can set up your very own DIY backyard movie night here. 2. I Scream, You Scream
That’s right, ice cream! A tradition that can never go out of style.
Who doesn’t LOVE ice cream? The kids will especially enjoy this tradition. Make an activity out of it. Gather the family into the car and head to the market, each family member has a budget to spend on whatever toppings and fixings they’d like for their very own ice cream sundae! Head home and begin the creation of your delicious concoctions. Spending time together as a family, enjoying a sweet treat, and the little ones will have a blast being in charge of their own sundae. This tradition is extra sweet and special. 3. Frame Your Favorite Memory
Look back at the summer and pick your favorite moment to display all year round.
You know you have to organize that camera roll anyway, so make it a family project! Take a trip down memory lane and revisit all of the fun moments you enjoyed this summer. You’ll be surprised at how many sweet snaps you captured and forgot about! Once you’ve selected the best picture that sums up this summer, grab a frame and have each member of the family write their favorite part about the day the picture was taken on the back of the frame. Display the frame, and you’ll have a sentimental reminder of this summer of 2015 every time you see it. What makes this tradition extra precious is reading the messages you wrote on the back each year when you put your next “favorite summer memory” inside the frame! This tradition is so much more meaningful than a post on Instagram or Facebook. 4. Kids Take Over The Kitchen
Move over Mom & Dad, the kids have a special treat in store!
You have to admit, it will be nice to not have to cook for one night! This tradition can take place any time of year, but summer is a perfect time. Why? Because the farmers’ markets (one of our favorite’s is Northfield’s Farmers’ Market). Come on, admit you’ve been wanting to go all summer- now’s your chance. And the best part is, the kids will enjoy going with because they get to pick the ingredients! Win-win! As a family, plan what the little ones will be dishing up and write your list together. Head out to your local farmer’s market and have a scavenger hunt collecting the ingredients. Get the bowls, cutting boards, spices and a safe-fool-proof recipe together and watch as your kids work together to complete the meal. Grab a glass of wine and Bon Appetit! Remember, safety first- keep a close eye on your little chefs.5. Back-To-School Resolutions
Who said resolutions were only for New Years?
This isn’t just for the kids, this is for parents too! Resolutions for transition phases, like back-to-school, is a great way for your family to stay organized and have more fun together. According to PBS, the biggest benefit of sharing resolutions as a family is that each member learns how to manage the importance of setting goals and working together to accomplish them. Have everyone sit down and write their goals for the school year and read them aloud. Put them somewhere that you will all see each day, and encourage each other to accomplish their individual goals. This is a great way to bond as a family and a fantastic tradition that lasts all year long. Do you have any end of summer traditions that your family celebrates? Please share them with us! Don’t forget to start preparing for your holiday traditions too- we’re currently scheduling Fall & Halloween holiday lighting and decor installation for Chicagoland, contact us for a free quote today. Check out last week’s blog on all of the spooky, bright and festive displays we have to offer. We hope you enjoy the last sweet sentiments of summer- Now, go forth and make some new traditions, friends!