How to Make Your String Lights Smart
How to Make Your String Lights Smart (and Your Patio Way More Magical)
If you’ve ever wrestled with plugging and unplugging your string lights every night—or just wish you could control them from your cozy spot on the couch—this post is for you.
I finally made the switch to smart outdoor lighting, and let me just say: game changer. Not only do our string lights turn on with a tap from my phone, but I can also schedule them to come on automatically whenever I want, control them from my smart home device (Google Home, Alexa, etc) or use the Pico remote that also doubles as a switch.
Here’s exactly what I used and how easy it was to set up:
Step 1: Get the Right Smart Plug
This is the magic behind it all. I’m using the Lutron Caséta Outdoor Smart Plug, which is made for outdoor use and built to withstand the elements. It’s heavy-duty, reliable, and works seamlessly with the Lutron app and Smart Hub.
Step 2: Download the Lutron App
Once your plug is connected (mine lives tucked under the deck), just download the Lutron app and follow the prompts to add your new smart plug. I named mine “Deck String Lights,” and now I can turn them on/off, create schedules, or pair it with other smart home systems like Alexa or Google Home.
Step 3: Add Your String Lights
Plug in any ordinary string lights directly into the Lutron smart plug (that is paired with your Lutron Smart Hub) and you're done. Seriously—it’s that easy. Now I can set them to turn on automatically every evening or manually control them when we’re hosting or having a quiet night in.
Why I Love This Setup
No more crawling around under furniture to unplug lights.
Can automate lights to turn on and off at whatever time you want.
Looks super impressive when you “magically” turn them on from your phone.
Great for entertaining (especially when your dog looks this relaxed under a warm glow).
If you’re ready to level up your patio lighting, grab this smart outdoor plug, and thank me later. Whether you’re winding down after work or throwing a summer party, smart lighting totally changes the vibe.
Links at a Glance
To complete the look and functionality of your smart patio, consider these additional items:
IF YOU ENJOYED THIS POST, YOU MIGHT BE INTERESTED my Blog post about how to create the nancy Meyers aesthetic
How to Bring the Nancy Meyers Aesthetic to Your Outdoor Space
If you’ve ever watched a Nancy Meyers movie and found yourself swooning over the kitchens, the cozy lighting, the layered neutrals, and the inviting, lived-in feel of every space—then you’re in good company. There’s something effortlessly elevated about the “Nancy Meyers aesthetic,” and the good news is, you don’t have to move to the Hamptons or own a coastal villa to bring a little of that charm home.
I recently gave our back patio a little refresh, and let me tell you—it’s giving Something’s Gotta Give meets It’s Complicated in the best way. Here’s how I leaned into the look:
1. Keep It Classic with Neutrals
A neutral base sets the tone. I already own an inexpensive black furniture set that I’m not willing to replace right now, so I chose a brown rug, soft beige and brown pillows and a textured throw to warm up the black metal furniture. Remember this look is all about timeless comfort, not trends.
2. Add Fresh Flowers (Always)
Nancy’s worlds are always filled with lush hydrangeas, fresh peonies, and plenty of greenery. I went with faux shrubs in concrete planters and real hydrangeas in white pots placed on my side tables to anchor the space and instantly add that soft, romantic charm. Bonus: I ended up planting the hydrangeas in the yard so now I’ll get years of beauty from them.
3. Set the Scene with Simple, Elegant Entertaining
Whether it’s sparkling water, lemonade, or just a bowl of strawberries, a pretty tray and glassware make even the smallest gathering feel special. I set our coffee table with a rattan tray, vintage-style plates, thrifted glass cups, and a thrifted silver pitcher —nothing fancy, but it feels intentional and a little luxurious.
5. Include a Little Personality
The little details bring it all to life. For us, that means letting our dog lounge wherever he pleases and keeping a pair of sandals kicked off nearby. It’s supposed to feel lived-in, after all—not staged.
6. Soft Lighting is a Must
While these photos were taken in the daylight, string lights overhead give off that dreamy glow once the sun goes down. You can’t go wrong with warm-toned bulbs and just enough sparkle to make the space magical. I also used a few battery powered candles on the coffee table.
The result? A patio that feels like a movie set—but still totally livable. Whether you're sipping coffee in the morning or hosting friends for evening drinks, it’s become my favorite place to exhale.
If you're craving a little Nancy Meyers magic, just start with a comfy seat, a hydrangea or two, and something to sip—your outdoor sanctuary is just a few cozy touches away.
Links at a Glance
Here’s everything I used to bring this cozy outdoor vibe to life:
IF YOU ENJOYED THIS POST, YOU MIGHT BE INTERESTED IN how i refreshed my porch to spring!
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Refresh your porch for spring
Spring Porch Refresh: Cozy Vibes with Faux Greenery and Rocking Chairs
Spring is finally here, and if you’re anything like me, you’ve probably been itching to give your porch a little love. After months of cold weather and gray skies, it’s time to bring some life (and color!) back to our outdoor spaces. The good news? You don’t need a full renovation—just a few simple updates can totally transform your porch into the perfect springtime hangout.
Let’s talk about a few easy ways to refresh your porch and make it feel warm and welcoming.
1. Faux Plants for the Win
Look, I love real plants as much as the next person, but I also love not watering things. Faux plants have come a long way and can seriously pass for the real deal. Try adding a couple of faux ferns or trailing ivy in cute planters. You get all the green without the upkeep. Win-win.
2. Wreath It Up
A spring wreath is like a smile for your front door. Whether you go with something floral, leafy, or even a combo of both, it sets the tone and adds a pop of color right at eye level.
3. Black Rocking Chairs = Instant Charm
There’s something timeless about a pair of black rocking chairs on the porch. They add that classic look but still feel fresh and modern. Throw a patterned pillow or a soft throw on them and boom—instant cozy corner. Perfect for sipping coffee in the morning or winding down with a book in the evening.
4. Layer in Some Textures
Think outdoor rugs, woven baskets, maybe even a lantern or two. Layering different textures makes your space feel lived-in and inviting without going over the top.
5. Keep It Chill
You don’t have to go overboard. A few thoughtful pieces can totally shift the vibe. Focus on what makes you feel relaxed and happy—that’s what spring is all about anyway.
So there you have it. A mini porch makeover that’s low stress but high on charm. Grab a glass of lemonade, kick back in your new favorite rocking chair, and enjoy those longer days.
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