Let’s talk about some Shady Business. You know the $herdog in me wanted to make that title a Slim Shady reference, right? Anyway, we’ve actually been working on a secret project for over 14 months and we finally get to spill the beans. Jazz hands don’t even begin to cover it. See, back in October 2011 Shades of Light asked us to help them design a lighting collection. And we said “who, us?” quickly followed by a “yes please!”
When it came to our goals, we really wanted to keep things casual, playful, happy, and – the biggest challenge – within our budget. Which broke down to keeping the entire collection under $99. There are even $3 add-on items to spice up the lamps that you already have (you know we love using what you’ve got). But keeping prices under that $99 mark (especially on larger lights, like chandeliers that are 2 feet wide) was a tall order. Shades of Light sells a ton of fancy $400+ designs, but they were amazingly willing to get all hands on deck to inch prices as low as possible without compromising quality, and we LOVE them for that. It was hard to mash all of the lights our bundles of joy into this post, so you can click here to browse our full collection of shades, pendant lights, and decorative add-ons.
Not only do side gigs like this help us provide for our family, they’re some of the most exciting work that we get to do (you know when we’re not juggling house projects, blog posts, book stuff, and playing with The Bean and The Burgs). Switching gears keeps us creative and it’s always fun to try something new, so projects like this are the icing on the DIY cake. Well, playing with Clara & Burger land in that category too. Which is fitting because these lights are sort of like our babies.
Here are a few “studio shots” of some of our kiddos. The apples of our eye. Picture us grinning like proud parents watching their child play “Tree #2” in the elementary school play.
That’s not all of them, so here’s the whole collection for ya. The coolest thing about this collaboration is that Shades of Light is based right here in Richmond, so it was a local affair. They came over to our house and we dropped by their headquarters a bunch of times over the course of the last year to draw sketches, look at prototypes, sample paint colors, see the products in action, and even shoot them in our own home for their online shop and their catalog.
Which means many of the lights are made/wired/painted right here in good ol’ Virginia! But of course they ship ’em nationally on their site in case you’re not a local (you can even call them for overseas shipping rates). So… woot! It’s pretty exciting to think that our babies are going to be making little pilgrimages to other cities across the country. Well, assuming people buy them. Haha.
As for Clara’s job, she played the role of quality control. When we asked her to pick her favorite one of the guys in the photo above, she kept changing her mind. She’s like her momma. She wants to rub her face on all of them.
The most exciting part of the entire process was when we finally got to shoot some of the finished lights in our house back in November (right between two book tour stops) to see how they looked “in situation” and to use some of those images for the Shades Of Light catalog. This is a farmhouse pendant that comes in a bunch of happy colors. Doesn’t the pink one look sweet when it’s fake-hanging over our the sink?
How did we fake it? Well, see the green-shirted guy on the stool in our kitchen? He actually held the mercury glass pendant that hangs over our sink out of the shot while they snagged a picture of the pink one that you see in the photo above (clamped to a rod above the sink so it appeared to be hard-wired there). It was our kinda shoot. Grass roots and lots of laughing.
Here’s another shot to show the magic of in-house photoshoots. See that giant reflector in the foreground and those three lights all clamped up to a rod that was later cropped out of picture? It’s so funny how we look at catalogs like Pottery Barn and think “oh man those rooms are so amazing and clean” – but in reality they must look at least this crazy from afar, thanks to all of the magical behind-the-scenes gear.
Here’s how those drum pendants actually looked in the photographer’s final shot. Oh and spoiler alert, we bought the scallop pendant in the middle. We couldn’t resist. We’re actually planning to hang it right in the window that you see here.
And remember the chandelier that we gave you a sneak peek of in Monday’s holiday post? Yup, it’s part of our collection. He’s one of our favorites.
We bought it as soon as the catalog shoot wrapped up in our house. At $89 for such a large chandelier (it’s two feet wide!) we thought it was a great deal, and it looks awesome with the oil-rubbed bronze glass pendants over our nearby peninsula. It also comes in a bunch of other colors beyond the rusty bronze finish that we went with (they’re painted locally in colors like plum, dark teal, white, black, gray, and red by an awesome lighting artisan).
One of the coolest “special effects” from it are the shadows that it casts on the ceiling if you use a clear bulb (if you don’t love them you can use a frosted bulb for a softer look).
And you know Burger is our muse, so… this happened. Yup, dude has his own chihuahua-riddled shades in a bunch of colors. We wanted things to be flexible for someone who might just want a shade for a table lamp or floor lamp that they already have, so we asked Shades of Light to sell the shades alone as well as with a finished pendant kit for hanging them (the full pendant kit even comes with a ceiling canopy, so it’s all ready to hang). People gotta have options. And chihuahua shades.
And see those sculptural white metal diffusers under each of these geometric-ish ikat shades? Those were another add-on that we thought could spice up someone’s life light. Say you already have a pendant light at home but want a little more flair – one of these (in either the hex pattern or the quatrefoil pattern) can definitely up the ol’ lighting ante.
We loved adding small (and inexpensive) DIY options, like these $3 add-ons. They’re basically decals (fancy word: appliques) that we thought would be fun on a lamp base that you might already own (or one you could score at a thrift store and spray paint in a solid color). So whether you’re into a white, black, or yellow bee shape; a favorite number in black or white; or even scalloped patterns that you can use alone or layer like crazy, you’re covered. Can’t you see a big white #7 on a navy lamp base? Or a white bee on a cheery yellow gourd lamp?
And now for a Burger story. Remember way baaack when we posted this picture of Burger for Thanksgiving in 2011? Well, that half-loaf of Panera bread that he snuck off with was actually from one of our first meetings for this project. The Shades of Light team was over at our house and we were excitedly talking about colors, fabrics, and shapes when Burger snuck ONTO THE DINING TABLE and grabbed it without any of us seeing him until it was way too late. Sneaky little bugger. It was the first and last time he had such brazen food-stealing confidence. Thank goodness. Just look at the regret in those big brown eyes…
So that ends our little 14-months-in-the-making collection o’ lights, shades, & add-ons. Oh and to anyone who isn’t currently shopping for lighting or doesn’t have any money to spend, we also hoped this collection would inspire the DIYers out there – perhaps just to paint a metal pendant or lamp base that you already have – or even to make little personalized decals to spice up a lamp base in some personal way.
And now for some gushy love for you all. We’d never be “here” without you, and for that we’re eternally grateful. To think that this all started with one little blog post back in 2007 is crazytown, and we’re so grateful to you guys for making it possible. Oh heck, you guys are like our babies too. Come to momma, I feel a hug coming on…
Rachel says
OH EM GEEEEEE.
I have been staring at pretty lights for so long but nothing that is ever affordable, wonderful, & something I could love for a long time and now…
my favorite bloggers ever have done it.
I think I want one of everything. You guys are the best.
YoungHouseLove says
Aw thanks so much Rachel!
xo,
s
Isabel says
Congrats on this amazing project! They are so beautiful and fun. When I’m in the market for a new light, the Large Wire Globe Lantern (Eggplant), the Farmhouse Pendant (Teal), and especially the Bubble Glass pendants might have to come live with me… Also, thanks for always being so open and honest. I’m always a little hesitant when I see bloggers pushing products because I’ve come across very few who are as honest with their readers as you are. But I’d definitely feel good about the quality of products that have the YHL stamp of approval because of the integrity you’ve shown.
All that just to say: Congrats! These are beautiful! :)
Mary says
Super, super cool! Big congrats on this accomplishment you guys!
Anna, Sydney says
Golly gosh you folks have been busy! The shades look AWESOME. Hope someone in Australia decides to pick them up so we can access them over here too.
Sarah says
Congratulations! The collection is so pretty! I love that you kept the prices low too. Lighting can be so expensive.
Maybe if you add more to your collection you might consider something without exposed bulbs. Migraines leave me weirdly wary/paranoid of exposed bulbs. Do I remember a tutorial from way back on how to add a filter to the bottom of a drum shade though…?
YoungHouseLove says
Oh yes, we did add a diffuser a while back (if you search diffuser office light that post should come up). We’d love to add some with uncovered bulbs, perhaps for a few flush mounted fixtures. Adding diffusers to shades and pendants made their prices go way up (well over $100) so we were doing our best to keep them down :)
xo
s
vicky s says
I am only waiting for my husband to get home from work so I can show him your lamps that I will be buying- one for the family room, and another for the bathroom and hallway. Great work, great price!!!! I love them all! We’ve been looking everywhere for colorful, youthful lamps so I am so excited!
Whitney says
I W-A-N-T T-H-E-M ALLLLLL! I am so excited for you guys… and us! Oh why, oh why don’t we own a house yet?! I am getting so excited now for the lighting (when we do have a house) since I was worried it would be too expensive for cool lighting!
Roeshel says
Super exciting and so many fun choices! I could have used one of those beautiful diffusers a few months ago! I ended up with a DIY version…cutting plexi-glass circles with a doily between and it turned out just fine {not a fun project} but I think if I had the option to buy, that’s what I would have done! lol Love the collection! Congratulations!
YoungHouseLove says
Thanks so much Roeshel!
xo
s
Deme @ Fresh Coat Of Paint says
Oh.my.goodness they are all amazing! Congrats!!
Kris says
You did a great job designing your lampshades! They are very cute and fun, and unique. Glad to hear you will make life and work more balanced for yourself – I don’t think anyone should work over 25 hours a week. : )
Gina says
I just bought the Burger lampshade for my girls’ room! They love dogs and I love y’all – win/win! :)
YoungHouseLove says
Wooot!
xo
s
Libby says
This is amazing- 8 weeks pregnant and starting to daydream about a baby nursery. I think a dog pendant or one of the scallop pendants would be perfect. Congrats, YHL!!
YoungHouseLove says
Thanks Libby! And congrats to you for that bun in the oven!
xo
s
Jill says
Awww mannnnnn…I just ordered a light off One King Lane that isn’t returnable. Shoot…
Awesome job! I’m sure I can find a place for one of your designs, especially at that price point. You all continue to amaze and delight.
Meg says
LOVE! And hallelujah for the bee decal!
Jennifer Laura says
wow! What’s next guys? The sky is the limit! Now we just need you to get a home accessories line…white ceramic chihuahuas. that. needs. to. happen.
YoungHouseLove says
Hahahah, wouldn’t that be the best?!
xo
s
Kate says
Bah! I am unbelievably excited!
michelle says
Sherry, I read your post this morning and was thrilled to see these beautiful designs! I love the colors and forms and only wish my house was bigger so that I could fit a few of these into our space. But maybe I can squeeze in a lamp because they are so gorgeous! Congrats! You guys are truly inspiring.
Quick question…is there any way to send you a private message or e-mail? I have a general question about the design industry. I know you are super busy but if you have a moment could you e-mail me? Thanks!
YoungHouseLove says
Sure! There’s a picture on the sidebar of our faces with a contact us link there for ya!
xo
s
Meredith Joens says
UUUmmm…. I don’t even have WORDS for ho excited I am about this right now. The fact that they are actually affordable, and not just “affordable” makes me almost pee in my office chair right now. I am SO excited and will absolutely be buying a few of your freaking awesome lights fixtures in the coming year. Pretty much every fixture in our house is hidious hahaha… so WOOOOOOOOT, go YOU! Great timing for me to be in need :D
YoungHouseLove says
Aw thanks so much Meredith!
xo
s
Heidi P. says
:O OHMYGOSH!! That is CRAZY COOL!!! I think you guys have arrived. You’re officially the coolest people I kind of know. :)
YoungHouseLove says
Haha, thanks so much Heidi!
xo
s
Tarnya Cook says
Congrats guys, so cool! I have emailed them to see what their shipping is like to downunder and if its reasonable I’m looking forward to purchasing the Large Wire Globe Lantern. x
monica says
Congratulations guys!
My favorite part of the collection is that they are locally made. I try not to buy anything made in China (it’s hard to avoid sometimes!) and I’ll keep these guys on the list when I’m in the market for a lamp!
-m
Ellen says
Congratulations! Lovely lamps :) Thanks for doing what you do – always nice to check out your website as I know what I find here will be positive and inspiring. You deserve all the wonderful things that come your way! Much love from Canada!
Inês says
Wow!!!!!Congrats, you guys are awesome. Loved, loved loved the Tangerine Red Farmhouse Pendant. Very sad they don’t send it to Europe. sniff
YoungHouseLove says
Oh yes if you call them they’ll tell you international shipping rates!
xo
s
Inês says
Too expensive!!!!
YoungHouseLove says
So sorry about that! Maybe over time they can work to see if their international shipping costs can come down for you :)
xo
s
Inês says
Well, a girl can hope. I’m happy just to look at them, GREAT job, Huge Congrats!!!!!!
Laurie says
Congratulations! I want one of each! Maybe in the end you’ll be your own Target… you know, like YHL Housewares for DIY’ers! (a gal can dream anyway!)
:)
Laura says
I can see some of these making the long trip to Australia in the near future!
YoungHouseLove says
Wahoo!
xo
s
Ashleigh P says
Congrats on the Shades of Light Collection!! The little glass bubble pendant is coming to live with me ASAP…times two. My kitchen NEEDS them…and we can’t deny neccessity now can we, lol!! Great job guys & I can’t wait to see you in the ATL…it’s on my 30th BDay!!! :)
YoungHouseLove says
Woop woop! So excited for ATL! Make me sing happy birthday to you!
xo
s
Emily R. says
It is so great when good things come to sweet, hardworking people. You deserve and should enjoy all the wonderful opportunities that come your way. I think one of these fixtures will be coming my way soon, so glad I held off on replacing a couple light fixtures.
mp says
LOVE the Burger shades — my six chihuahuas feel honored. (Commence lots of running around in circles and excited barks.)
YoungHouseLove says
Hahahah!
xo
s
Susan says
I’m in loveeeee!
I’ll take one of each in every color.
Thank you for thinking of the frugal folks and keeping the prices realistic. I also think its great that you guys have a no swag policy…major props to you guys for that!
I do have a question that I’m hoping you can answer though. I was browsing the collection and noticed the price for the Scallop Print Drum Shade Pendant says 249 in the drop down. I freaked for a second but when I added it to my cart, it says 99. Is there someone specific I could contact to fix it or should I just call the general shades of light number? Wouldn’t want ya’ll to short sell because someone thinks your stuff is too expensive!
YoungHouseLove says
Weird! Thanks so much for the tip! I will email them over there to get that typo fixed :)
xo
s
Nicki Parrish says
Wow! That is awesome! LOVE THEM! Congrats. So happy for you guys!
Nancy says
Gorgeous! There are several that I love love love …. and I need a new light! Sadly, I need a new light that will swag and plug into a wall socket. Any plans for adding swaggy light options to your terrific collection?
YoungHouseLove says
We’d love to add some of those!
xo
s
Ronda says
These are all fantastic! Congrats to you and yay for us! That chihuahua shade will be mine soon, for a certain little girl with her own little chihuahua!
Jackie says
Huge CONGRATULATIONS!!! Your collection is amazing, and the prices are unbelievable. Good-looking affordable lighting is hard to come by. I cannot wait to start recommending lights from your collection to my mood board clients! I already love referring them to Shades of Light (which I discovered through you).
As for me, that large deep teal chandelier is calling my name!!! It will look amazing over our stairwell!
You guys rock!!!
YoungHouseLove says
Thanks so much Jackie!
xo
s
Carly G. says
I am in LOVE with this collection!!!!! I want them all for my new apartment!!!!!
Carly G. says
PS- Thank you for keeping the prices low enough for the average person to afford!
Jennie says
You guys! This is amazing and awesome. You never cease to amaze me with your talents. Congratulations on your newest venture … I feel like you just have one awesome announcement after the other … So much fun!
Hugs to both of you (and Clara and Burger too!) Job well done!
Melissa says
I’ve been looking for a good excuse to update a few lights in our house, and I think I just found one! Lovin the lamps!!
Natalie says
Congratulations on the reveal! I can feel your excitement and that is such an encouragement. I look forward to ordering from this line!
Patty says
On my way to order the large wire globe and two small ones but where do you get the bulbs that are shown in the picture. They really make the fixture!
YoungHouseLove says
They sell them on shadesoflight.com I think too! They’re called edison bulbs. I think Home Depot sells them too.
xo
s
Katrina says
Congrats guys, the collection looks great and everyone seems to be in love with them. I am sure they will be a huge success for you guys and you both deserve it!
Emily H says
What lights are the decals shown on? I love the style but couldn’t find them on the shades of light website.
And your line is amazing!
YoungHouseLove says
Those are lamps we tried to develop but couldn’t get a good price/quality match-up so we sadly had to ditch them. If we can get them to work we’d love to add them back in!
xo
s
Lindsey Stuttle says
Congratulations!!! So happy for you guys…and more than happy to snag that chandelier and one of the “Burger” shades! :)
Polina says
Congrats on the stunning collection! You two never seize to amaze me with your work ethics, creativity and energy! I will definitely be making a purchase :-)
YoungHouseLove says
Thanks so much Polina! We couldn’t have done any of this stuff without you guys :)
xo
s
Monica says
I love all of them. Choosing only one is hard. Well done and a big congratulation. Will need to check on shipping costs :-)
Stephanie Nelson says
Nice collection! Love the one you put in your dining room.
It would have been cool if they had reproduced your clothespin pendant. I would probably have to buy one of those! :)
Happy New Year!
YoungHouseLove says
Oh man, that would have been awesome if we could have gotten it into the price point!
xo
s
Bethany says
Congratulations! Very exciting!!
Wasn’t there talk of your own FLOR design too? Is that still in the works? Where can we check that out?
YoungHouseLove says
Oh yes, that was just using the Flor rug designer thing on their site (anyone can do that) to mix and match carpet tiles and make a design. We did a fun little striped rug they auctioned off for free at our DC signing with them :)
xo
s
Katie says
Way to go you two! These lampshades are beautiful. I’m a teacher so spending my day figuring out how to incorporate one of these beauties into my new house was welcomed homework :)
YoungHouseLove says
Aw thanks so much Katie!
xo
s
Chrissie says
I love the one you guys used in your dining room! But I think I may need to look at the DIY route, I’m not sure if the connections and wiring would be the same over here – I know our electrical sockets are different to the US. I think the dark teal would be amazing!
Katie says
PS–Your next goal should be to do a collaboration with Target!
YoungHouseLove says
Haha, that would be crazy.
xo
s
Andrea says
Question… maybe someone already asked and I missed it. Are these available indefinitely or just for a limited time? Congrats again :-) We love all of them!
YoungHouseLove says
We’re hoping they’ll be available for the long haul- as long as they don’t tank :)
xo
s
Laurie says
Good job with the price (impressive) and the looks! Now I’ll have to call them to see for shipping fees to… Canada! Congratulations!