You want EverLights - holiday lights that would make Clark Griswold jealous, but you don't want anything bad to happen or your pocketbook to scream uncle. Let's untangle the issue of looking for good lighting aid without feeling like you just gave Santa your credit card.
Ask for proof of insurance. Seems boring, but it's really vital. A unstable ladder can ruin your festive mood and your money if you fall off of it. If a business can't answer this question, it's not worth your time.
Get a full plan. Ask what comes with it, even the wires and timers. One neighbor believed she had hit the jackpot, but she found out that it cost more to take it down and store it. Ouch. Ask for a list of what is covered and get it in writing. Paper trails are a Christmas miracle.
Watch out for the deposit trap. A good business will ask for a fair deposit, but if they demand the complete cash before the first twinkle is strung, that's a bad sign. Don't take everything out of the sleigh until the reindeer get there.
Look at real work. A crew can promise the moon but only bring a pocketful of faint stars. Ask to see some new pictures. If they aren't sure, your holiday arrangement might be more Clark than traditional.
Don't get caught up in the drama of the lowest bid. That low price could mean that things were done quickly, with weak lights, or with unstable installations. My uncle used to say, "Buy cheap, cry twice."
Ask for a timeframe. Some businesses fill up faster than gingerbread cookies at a bake sale. If they can't offer you a definite start and end time, you might have to look at ladders and cords that are all twisted up while your neighbors drink cocoa.
Be clear when you talk. Be clear about what you want: color, pattern, timers, and where the cords will go. Don't assume anything. I once saw a person having Santa half-inflated for two weeks because the wires were in the wrong position. Oh no.
Don't forget about warranties. Good pros stand behind their job. Ask if they can fix burnt-out bulbs and other problems that come up in the middle of the season. It's better to have peace of mind than to climb on the chilly roof.
And have faith in your gut. If the person can't answer basic inquiries or makes you feel uneasy, keep looking. There are a lot of elves out there. Choose those who make you happy, not those that make you angry.
Lights should make people smile, not feel bad. With a little curiosity, prudence, and tenacity, you may enjoy a cup of chocolate and watch your home glow without worrying that the Grinch took your money.