The Fairy Light Shop is run by Belinda Gregg and Vanessa Judd. Since they opened their store in Barrys Point Road, they've been struck how people on the Shore are so supportive of local businesses. They love it when people come in to look at their lights and have a chat about what options are available.

We asked Belinda a few questions about how lights can enhance the atmosphere in your home.

Channel Magazine: What is the power of using lights in enhancing atmosphere?

Belinda Gregg: Fairy lights are for all year round! The best thing about the lights is they always make people smile. They are the perfect way to create ambient lighting inside and outside, whether you’re relaxing at home or entertaining. And of course fairy lights are a definite requirement for any celebration – not least the Christmas season.

CM: How can people maximise the impact of any lights they select? T

BG: The best way to maximise the impact of fairy lights is to install them so you accentuate and complement any existing architecture or garden structures: rooflines, windows, fences, trees, hedges, pergolas are all examples of areas where lighting will create a stunning feature. Lighting inside windows looks fabulous too and creates a mysterious and magical feeling. Put the lights on a timer so you don’t need to remember to switch them on and off – then the neighbours and passers-by can enjoy them too!

CM: How can you help people beyond just selling them lights?

BG : We advise people all the time on what the lighting possibilities are for particular spaces. We offer a design service where we can come for a site visit and make recommendations and quote from there, and we also offer an installation service. Or people can email or bring in a photo and we’re  happy to advise from that.

CM: With Christmas coming up, can you tell us a bit about the kinds of lights people can use to mark the Christmas season?

BG: Icicle and curtain lights are very popular outdoor options, along with stars to hang inside windows. Net lights are perfect for hedging, and Christmas tree lights are always a big seller. Battery lights are great and very versatile because you can simply move them as required from table centerpiece to mantelpiece to fireplace and so on.

CM: Can you give us examples of where customers have used lights they’ve bought from you, and why these worked so well?

BG: We have sold lights to many restaurants and bars which you can see locally in Takapuna: Francs, The Lab, The Commons, The Elephant Wrestler - and the large Japanese maple on Hurstmere Green is literally dripping with fairy lights. The lights help make these venues desirable locations and they set the mood for a fun night out.

The Fairy Light Shop, 32 D Barrys Point Road, Takapuna 09 486 1586 www.thefairylightshop.com