Get matched with top holiday decorators in Paris, MO

Yes, you must use an extension cord specifically rated for outdoor use to power outdoor lights, such as Christmas lights. Extension cords intended for indoor use lack the protective properties to withstand exposure to outdoor elements. To safely hang and power lights outside your house or in your yard, always connect them to an outdoor power source using an outdoor-rated extension cord.

Professionals use the same methods found in this guide unless they’re decorating a particularly large Christmas tree. In that case, they may also make use of tools like extension poles to get the job done. 

Professional holiday decorating services cost between $300 and $2,500 or more, with an average cost of about $1,500. The total price depends on the size of your home, the extent of the work, your location, and whether materials are included. Simple interior decoration may cost around $300, while a combination of interior and exterior work often totals around $800. For large or extensive design services, you could pay $2,500 or more. Common service costs can include: exterior holiday light installation ($400), Christmas tree decoration ($200–$600), interior holiday design ($50–$200 per hour), and holiday landscaping ($50–$100 per hour). Note that some prices may only include labor, not the cost of the decorations themselves.

To hang Christmas lights on a ceiling without using nails or traditional hooks, you have several damage-free options. Adhesive hooks and clips are a popular choice. For smaller projects, you can use pushpins, tacks, or adhesive putty. Specially designed transparent tape that can hold weight without damaging paint is also effective. For a more creative approach, consider stringing the lights over a curtain rod near the ceiling. If you have a drop ceiling, look for clips and hooks designed to attach to the metal framing. Note that staples can also be used, but may leave small holes.