There are an insane amount of questions that come in about the display! But some of them come up more frequently than others. Here are some of them.
How does it work?
In short it is a computer and a lot of switches, but on the technical side we use 7 Light-O-Rama controllers (112 Channels) and software, a Ramsey 30B FM transmitter, over a mile of extension cords. If you want to know more about how Light-O-Ram works check out the WIKI.
Why do you do it?
Why not? Check out the About Us Page, it answers this one.
Who are you?
Valerie and Harrison Ward …. Check out our About Us page to find out more.
How long does it take?
This is a tough question, and the answer comes down to hours, days, and years … I have been working on this year’s display (2007) since January 18th. I started planning next year (2008) display 02 September 2007. 90% of the work is planning and prep. Setup was done over 7 days during the week of Thanksgiving, made possible by long days and a lot of help from neighbors, family, friends, and elf’s.
How much does it cost?
Equipment – A LOT
Time – A LOT
Electricity – Less then you think
I don’t track this information for may reasons. For one, I don’t want to know and two, I’d rather not have to tell the wife. But I can tell you it was more then I expected but worth every cent. This is a life dream of mine and I enjoy it, so price isn’t relative.
How many lights?
600 per Mini Tree X 18 = 10,800
XXX on the house
XXX on the Yard
XXX in Wreaths
XXX in the Bushes
XXX in other items throughout the display
So ~15,000 + Total
I was at the display but I couldn’t hear anything?
Did you tune your radio to 107.3 FM? We use a wireless FM transmitter to preserve the sanity of ourselves and our neighbors. Yes, we love the music, but hearing the same music over and over and over and over for the entire month of December could drive all of us mad. So on this note, we ask you keep your radios at a ‘normal’ listening level. We all appreciate it!
Why do we do donations?
The reason why we do the light show is because we want to share Christmas joy with others. It just made sense to further that goal by providing an opportunity for others to give and receive as well. We are so happy to be partnering with the Flower Mound Police Department and hope that you can spread the joy our lights give to you to others.
I love Christmas lights too! How can I do this?
First things first, there’s a lot of researching, planning and reading to do. The sites I would recommend checking out are Planet Christmas, Texas Christmas Lights, and the vendors site of your choice. I would also talk to your family before even getting you hopes up about doing this type of display. A LOT of your free time will be needed as this doesn’t all come together over night or even over a month. I am more then willing to talk Christmas with anyone. Feel free to contact me directly if you wish. My wife will just be excited that she doesn’t have to hear it.
Who’s voice is that? I think I have heard it before…
Well, you may have. It’s Kevin, The Demented Elf. You can find out more about him at his website. He did a GREAT job and I highly recommend him and his services.
