🎄 Christmas Light Business 101: From Zero to Lit (Beginner’s Guide for Contractors)

Introduction

The holiday season is magical — and lucrative. For contractors and service pros looking to add a seasonal revenue stream, starting a Christmas light installation business can be the perfect move. With high demand, relatively low startup costs, and a feel-good atmosphere, it’s no wonder this niche is lighting up across the country.

This guide will walk you through how to go from “zero to lit” — whether you're a handyman, landscaper, roofer, or general contractor looking to expand your offerings.

Step 1: Understand the Opportunity

The Christmas light industry has seen massive growth in recent years. Homeowners and businesses alike are increasingly outsourcing their decorating needs. Why?

• Safety concerns: Climbing roofs in winter? No thanks.

• Time savings: Holiday stress is real.

• Design expertise: Professionals bring the "wow" factor.

As a contractor, you’re already halfway there with tools, a vehicle, and service experience. Now it’s time to plug into the market.

Step 2: Get the Right Gear

Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

• Commercial-grade LED lights (C7 or C9 bulbs)

• Extension cords & timers

• Clips, stakes, and mounting accessories

• Ladder or lift

• Safety harness (for steep roofs)

• Storage bins (for post-season take-down)

Pro tip: Offer to store lights for clients during the off-season for an upsell.

Step 3: Pricing and Packages

There are two common pricing models:

1. Rental Model: You provide the lights, install, remove, and store them. Higher margins.

2. Client-Owned Model: Client buys the lights; you install and remove. Easier on inventory.

Package ideas:

• Basic (roofline only)

• Deluxe (roofline + bushes/trees)

• Premium (full house + yard décor)

Charge by linear footage or flat rate per package. Don’t forget labor, material, and setup costs.

Step 4: Market Like a Pro

Your goal is to get early visibility — don’t wait until December.

• Launch in September/October

• Facebook and Instagram Ads with before/after shots

• Google Business Profile listing

• Door hangers or yard signs in upscale neighborhoods

• Email marketing to existing service clients

Word-of-mouth is huge, so encourage referrals with discounts or incentives.

Step 5: Legal and Logistics

Before you start:

• Register your business and check local licensing.

• Carry liability insurance (especially roof work!).

• Create service agreements with clear terms.

• Plan a seasonal calendar (October–January).

Also consider hiring seasonal help for installs and takedowns during peak weeks.

Step 6: Scale Smart

Once you've got your first season under your belt:

• Track customer data for re-booking next year.

• Invest in CRM tools like Jobber or Housecall Pro.

• Offer additional décor services (wreaths, garlands, etc.)

• Expand to commercial clients like HOAs and retail centers.

Conclusion

Starting a Christmas light business isn’t just festive — it’s financially rewarding. With the right systems, gear, and marketing, you can turn a few weeks of work into thousands in profit each year.

So deck the halls, climb the ladders, and let your new business shine.