AOLP LightLines Fall 2023

LightLines

Fall 2023

New Trends, Technology and Training Discussed at AOLP State of the

Industry Webinar

Over the past year, the economy, new trends and new technology have challenged and grown the outdoor lighting industry. Experts discussed these changes and what the future holds at the recent AOLP annual Landscape Lighting State of the Industry 2023 webinar.

New Trends in Outdoor Lighting

New growth brings new trends. One of the biggest trends in outdoor lighting is the use of smaller, niche light sources with a high-lumen output. Other recent trends include low-cost directional lights, varied use of color, value-based options, and automation and Wi-Fi.

Small Sources, Big Impact

Over the past year, Brilliance LED has seen demand for smaller, more frequent light sources and small, complementary niche products grow significantly.

The attractiveness of small, solution-oriented lighting products lies in its complementary nature and its ability to provide unique options at a lower cost. This makes it easier for lighting professionals to buy, sell and install.

The growing popularity of increased lighting on largerscale items and structures has contributed to higher lumen outputs from LED products.

Light levels have also expanded as color options have grown. When using colors, more light has to be used due to increased color saturation and decreased lumen output.

RGB – On the Rise or Fading Out?

The use of color had slowed, but new offerings at economy or mid-level prices have garnered more interest. Even if color isn’t used, RGB systems’ ability to adjust the temperature of tunable whites makes an impact.

“We are getting more and more calls [for permanent holiday lighting]. That is a trend I see exploding lately,” Long said. He shared that about 10 percent of his commercial and residential clients request holiday color-changing lighting. He encourages Wi-Fi systems for those clients to give them more control over their color options.

Changing colors with calendar-based, pre-programmed systems are increasing in popularity, Ramsey agreed. A year-round calendar approach to lighting is a good selling point for color because many clients want pre-set holiday season lighting changes without actively maintaining them.

Continued on next page...

An e-newsletter for members of the Association of Outdoor Lighting Professionals.

The webinar featured Bryan Gold of Brilliance LED; Roger Ramsey, CLVLT, of Ewing Outdoor Supply; Tommy Bevilacqua of After Dark Landscape Lighting; and Mike Long, CLVLT, COLD, of Mike’s Landscape Lighting. AOLP Board Member and Communications Chair Nick Schriver, CLVLT, of Decorating Elves, moderated the event.

Winter Wonderland, Chris Apfelstadt, CLVLT of Light Up Columbus

How Outdoor Lighting Has Changed Over the Past Year

Weather Tested the Industry in the West

Weather played a large part in industry successes and challenges this year. Difficult weather significantly tested the industry in California, the Pacific Northwest and parts of the Midwest, while business boomed in New England and Florida. The South saw single-digit increases.

Demand for Budget-Friendly Products Grew

The changing economy influenced the industry as well. As the economy shifted, many consumers and businesses began selecting more economical, budget-conscious options instead of premium products.

“With the economy being a little softer than it has been in the past, having a product offering for the client base that fits any budget constraints they come across helps [contractors]… land jobs, stay busy and keep their staff busy,” Ramsey said. “[The key is] embracing a good-better-best strategy… with professional grade products… at different cost points.”

While design/builders on the East Coast have seen positive revenue growth over the last 12 months, they have also observed a decrease in actual commissioned projects.

“That doesn’t mean we are doing less work for more money, but it has definitely changed,” said Bevilacqua. “...the market has softened volume-wise, but projects have increased in the perspective and in the jobs themselves. So, our revenue has gone up.”

The Industry Is Growing

Despite shifts in products and markets, the outdoor lighting industry is growing.

“Personally, I feel the industry as a whole will continue to experience steady growth just from the simple fact that landscape lighting is on everyone’s radar,” Bevilacqua shared. “Now everyone wants it… How much they do and how cost-effective it is to them is an issue, but… the industry as a whole is going to experience steady growth without a doubt.”

“Overall, when you look at the [number] of residences in the U.S. and how many of them actually have landscape lighting, very few still do,” Gold said. “I think overall, the industry will grow.”

Ramsey agreed but emphasized the impact of the economy on growth. “I think there is growth, but I think the growth is slower than we are used to seeing over the last several years [due to growing economic challenges],” he said.

What Is a Good-BetterBest (GBB) Strategy?

A good-better-best (GBB) strategy is a product versioning strategy.

Good: A basic level of value for price-sensitive customers.

Better: An in-between level of value for customers who appreciate the extras and are willing to pay a specific price to receive them. These customers are still a bit price-sensitive.

Best: An advanced level of value for customers actively looking for maximum added value.

Palm Beach Home - Mockingbird, Greg Matthews, CLVLT, COLD of Luxury Illumination

New Technology Lights Up Efficiencies

The growth of automated programming and Wi-Fi connected products that allow clients to manage their lights wirelessly are just two ways technology has changed in the past few years. Panelists shared a few other ways they have utilized technology to improve their businesses.

Brilliance LED has invested in infrastructure tech updates to increase efficiency and better communicate with distributors. These updates enable products to get to the market faster and allow them to share information with sales representatives and distributors more quickly.

Ramsey discussed new apps that improve ways to plan lighting design and demonstrate options for customers. Some apps allow lighting pros to photograph the residence, building or structure in the daytime and apply lighting

design, then drop light levels down so it looks like a nighttime demo.

Long’s company is utilizing a new sales tool— Monday.com—to stay in contact with prospects and a CRM app to stay in touch with prospects.

Bevilacqua discussed the progress of 3D modeling platforms like SketchUp and Lumion. His company uses 3D digital modeling in client presentations and has had great success.

Moderator Nick Schriver’s organization utilizes a lot of apps to conduct business, including MileQ, ServiceMinder, LB Lighting Boss, and more.

Training Elevates Individuals and the Industry

Remaining current and on-trend can be challenging. Panelists touched on the value of AOLP membership and professional development opportunities to help lighting pros stay on the cutting edge.

From AOLP’s Certified Low Voltage Lighting Technician (CLVLT) and Certified Outdoor Lighting Designer (COLD) certifications to the many good educational offerings AOLP and its manufacturer and distributor members offer, training benefits lighting pros and boosts the industry.

President’s Message

by Andy Thomas, CLVLT, COLD

Beyond the Thunderdrone

I got a new toy! After several months of sitting on my Amazon wishlist, I did what any self-respecting adult does and just bought the thing myself instead of waiting for someone to get it for me. They’d probably screw it up and get me the wrong one anyway. That’s right, I joined the drone club.

I’ve had the tiny drones you get for $20-$50 before, and they’re fun. Crash ‘em into the window, plop them in the pool, lose it over the fence and go buy another one. But, after seeing what my peers were using them for in lighting design and sales, I felt I owed it to myself to see the potential for using them in our own business. I’m still feeling things out and getting past the novelty and into the workhorse phase.

During our recent AOLP board meeting, we discussed what’s going on in each committee, listening to reports from each committee board liaison. The use of drones crossed over on several of these reports, including the potential for a conference session. Don’t get too excited because we may not have a real presentation together until 2025, but the fact that drones are becoming more prevalent and real-world applications are expanding, I think it’s time we talk about it.

During the last few ILLI Intensive Courses—including the one I attended in New Harmony, Indiana—AOLP Board Member Greg Matthews, CLVLT, COLD, along with ILLI Mentor Kellan Vincent, gave a hands-on demonstration of drone flying and how they use it in their own business. Expanding on that demonstration into a session about the ins and outs of drone photography and videography would be a fun and informational session, in my opinion. It also ties into what we would like to do with the COLD class at Illuminate ‘24 in San Antonio, doing a hands-on project incorporating drone photos to help create a lighting concept and system as-built plan.

I know there are several lighting designers out there who are capturing photos and videos of finished systems to use in their marketing materials. Drones are an easy and relatively inexpensive way to get dramatic fly-by shots of crews working, people relaxing in their yards, or parties transitioning from evening to night. All of these are excellent marketing materials for getting more eyeballs on your website and calls on your phone from TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, Facebook and whatever else the kids are using these days to toot their own horn.

I haven’t fully jumped into the deep end with thousands of dollars in drone gear. I found something that would work for what I need for under $500. I’ll use it primarily for overhead shots to create top-down project plans. Google Earth doesn’t always have the clearest photos to use for our base plan due to shadows, tree cover, and blurry or out-of-date info. Getting the latest shot, with favorable shadows and angles, seems like it will be a significant advantage. We’ll see how it progresses. In the meantime, I’ve crashed it into the window, nearly plopped it in the pool, and so far avoided losing it over the fence. If it lives long enough, it could be a great tool. I’ll let you know in San Antonio!

Andy Thomas, CLVLT, COLD

EXPO & SPONSOR

PROGRAM

Illuminate ‘24: Make Your Company Stand Out

Become a Sponsor or Exhibitor at Illuminate ‘24

Put your company in the spotlight! Showcase your products and services to top contractors in the outdoor lighting industry during Illuminate ‘24. This is your chance to meet decision-makers face-to-face and capture new leads!

Illuminate ‘24 is February 22–23, 2024, at the Hilton Palacio del Rio in San Antonio, Texas. Illuminate brings together lighting professionals, distributors and manufacturers for valuable education and networking. Build your brand’s awareness as an exhibitor and get added exposure by becoming an AOLP sponsor.

Secure your spot as a 2024 exhibitor or sponsor during AOLP’s exclusive showcase event! Click the button below for more information and to register for the 2024 Expo & Sponsor Program.

View the 2024 Expo & Sponsor Program

To discuss a customized package for your company, please contact ads@aolponline.org or call Michelle Keyser at (717) 238-2504.

2023 Board of Directors

President

Andy Thomas, CLVLT, COLD Viewpoint Lighting

Sacramento, CA (916) 501-0495

andy@viewpointlighting.com

Vice President Nick Schriver, CLVLT Decorating Elves Clearwater, FL (800) 695 - 4837

nick@decoratingelves.com

Treasurer Matt Carli, COLD

Moonlighting Landscape Lighting Systems Charleston, SC 29405 (843) 853-3221

matt@moonlightinglls.com

Secretary

Anthony Bogdanovich, CLVLT

California Outdoor Lighting Harbor City, CA 90710 (310) 940 - 0731

anthony@californiaoutdoorlighting.com

Directors

Chris Apfelstadt, CLVLT Light Up Columbus Dublin, OH 43017 (614) 832-3139

chris@lightupcolumbus.com

Ryan Jaso Lighting BOSS Pinellas Park, FL 33782 (727) 565 - 0900

ryanj@lighting-boss.com

Greg Matthews, CLVLT, COLD Luxury Illumination West Palm Beach, FL 33409 (561) 644 -3860

greg@luxuryillumination.net

AOLP’s 2024 Lighting Awards Program Is Now Open for Submission

The Awards Feature Two NEW Categories!

Show off your skills in outdoor lighting by entering the Association of Outdoor Lighting Professionals’ 2024 Lighting Awards! Our program honors and promotes professional excellence in outdoor lighting design and recognizes industry achievement.

Show us your best work in these categories: Residential (small, large, XL and XXL), Commercial, Feature-Focused, Outdoor Living, Splash of Color and Holiday Lighting. Multiple entries in multiple categories are permitted.

In addition, this year we added two NEW categories for you to showcase your work.

Residential XXL: For projects with 250 fixtures or more.

Splash of Color:

A permanent lighting installation that incorporates color in functional or decorative outdoor lighting. Whether it’s a vibrant and energetic atmosphere or a more subtle and relaxing ambiance, show off the splash of color(s) used in your outdoor illumination project. This category includes water features, color-changing capabilities that highlight specific areas, or any colored illumination that adds drama and/or versatility to your outdoor lighting project. This category allows for a submission of one 30-second video in addition to project photos.

Get your entry in early for discounted pricing!

Pricing before November 30: $85 per award submission

Pricing after November 30: $110 per award submission

The deadline for entry in all categories is December 15, 2023.

Check out the awards packet for more information and details on the lighting awards program.

Lighting Awards Packet

Submit Your Entry Online

Please contact Courtney Kuntz at comm@aolponline.org with any questions.

Upcoming Webinars

Linear Tape Lighting

Thursday,

Panelists:

Kevin Smith, CLVLT, Brilliance

James Cervantes, FX Luminaire

Hear from industry experts as they delve deep into the world of linear tape lighting. Our panelists will discuss the “why” behind linear tape lighting and how to use it, as well as review their own flexible RGBW tape lighting products. Register now to secure your spot!

Register by October 24 to participate in the live webinar and Q&A session and to receive a recorded copy of the presentation.

Questions about the webinar?

Contact Lori Zelesko at events@aolponline.org

Save

Member Spotlight

Steven Gogatz, a.k.a. “The Lighting Whisperer” Innovative Light Designs

In this issue’s Member Spotlight, we caught up with Steven Gogatz, owner of Innovative Light Designs, a company that specializes in holiday lighting and decor. With a strong passion for lighting since a young age, Gogatz has built a successful business that has been featured on local TV news and has won prestigious competitions.

Gogatz’s fascination with lighting began when he was just 12 years old. “I had a Disneyland Pass,” he reflected, “and would study the holiday lighting at Small World. I tried to replicate that at my parent’s house, and they would win the local community Christmas contest.” As word spread about his talent, neighbors began asking him to light up their houses as well.

At Innovative Light Designs, Gogatz wears many hats. As the owner, he fulfills various roles, including salesperson, project designer, marketer, outreach coordinator, and supervisor of the installation crew. His dedication and commitment have allowed the company to thrive.

One of the biggest challenges Gogatz has faced in the lighting industry is maintaining consistent work throughout the year. During the Christmas season, the company experiences its biggest surge in demand. “During Christmas, our working staff swells to four times what we have on a daily basis in the spring and summer.” To address this challenge, Gogatz has focused on networking, building relationships with power partners, and implementing effective marketing strategies to generate year-round demand for lighting services.

Gogatz takes immense pride in several projects he has worked on. One notable project is the landscape lighting at DAOU Vineyards in Paso Robles, California, which won the AOLP Commercial Lighting Award of Merit in 2023. Another significant achievement is the landscape lighting at Marquez Estate in Highland, Calif., which earned the AOLP Residential

XL Lighting Award of Excellence in 2022. Additionally, Gogatz successfully executed the “Light of the World” Christmas lighting mega display at Saddleback Church in Lake Forest, Calif. Lastly, the “Grinch” Christmas lighting display in Yorba Linda, Calif., caught the attention of four TV news channels due to its Hollywood-style special effects and the construction of over 50 custom set piece props.

Gogatz became an AOLP member in 2022 after his lighting manufacturer recommended joining. He saw the value in being part of a community dedicated to enhancing outdoor lighting design. Gogatz particularly enjoys the annual conference speakers and trade show exhibition, as they provide valuable insights and ideas to improve his company’s operations.

Before devoting himself full-time to the lighting company, he worked as a freight train conductor for Santa Fe Railroad, now known as BNSF. Despite the career transition, Gogatz’s passion for lighting has been unwavering since his childhood experience.

Product Spotlight

The Story Behind the TL32 Tree Light

As a leading manufacturer of outdoor landscape lighting fixtures, ClaroLux Landscape Lighting strives to push the boundaries of luminaire design and improvement. We excel in designing, prototyping, producing, and enhancing specialized lighting fixtures in-house to address challenging problems in lighting design. Our recent introduction, the TL32 “Luna,” exemplifies this commitment.

Working closely with a prominent landscape lighting designer, we developed the TL32 to overcome the frustrations associated with tree/down lighting. Through thorough discussions about the challenges faced in this application, we compiled a checklist of essential features for the new fixture.

One of the significant issues with existing tree lights in the industry is the inadequate mitigation of strong glare, especially when installed near living spaces. To address this, we innovated a new honeycomb louver system for the TL32. This system accommodates a louver on both the inside and outside of the glass holder, providing maximum glare reduction and flexibility. Additionally, we created a locking swivel-ball system with a single mounting point for the TL32, eliminating the limitations of a traditional articulating knuckle. This ensures a secure, precise adjustability while maintaining easy installation.

Having established these and other ideas for the fixture, we produced 3D-printed and CNC-machined brass prototypes. We then collaborated further with the client, making necessary adjustments and enhancements to the design. With the completion of the first fullproduction run, we take pride in our partnership that led to the introduction of this truly unique luminaire. Our commitment to this type of collaboration with our customers and industry experts runs deep – because it serves to better the industry.

We invite you to join us in pushing the boundaries of landscape lighting design. If you’re a lighting professional or have innovative ideas to enhance outdoor lighting solutions, we would love to collaborate with you.

Mention of commercial products in this newsletter is solely for information purposes and endorsement is not intended by AOLP. Material does not directly reflect opinions or beliefs of AOLP. Product Spotlights are paid advertisements. For more information, contact ads@aolponline.org

Lighting | Designing with linear lights

Southern Lights Outdoor Lighting & Audio used strip lighting to accentuate high-end hardscaping. | READ MORE

Changing the Landscape Award | Light on the water

Luxury Illumination won the 2023 Changing the Landscape Award for Landscape Lighting, sponsored by Brilliance LED, for an over-water project. | READ MORE

Michael Deo, CLVLT, COLD of NatureScape

Lighting + Audio and Paul Gosselin Sr., CLVLT, COLD of NightScenes Landscape Lighting Professionals contributed to this Washington Post article, “9 Lighting Tips to Make Your Outdoor Space Shine.” Read It Here

How Does a Leader Live Out Being Authentic?

by Jeff Tippett

Authentic leadership doesn’t “just happen.” It takes a sustained effort on your part to become the leader that you and others around you deserve.

One way to gauge the level of authentic leadership is to look around. Do the people working for the leader in question respect them? Are they loyal?

Transactional leadership can make this difficult. People are more concerned with completing the task in front of them and avoiding some sort of punishment than in building up relationships. They look for new leadership and feel no sense of loyalty. And who would blame them?

Team members seek to emulate the leadership qualities espoused at the top. If, for example, they see a leader who is self-interested and concerned only with profit maximization, the same mindset will be rife among the ranks. An authentic leader

must lead by example. That creates a space where the other members of your organization can also be their own authentic selves. That’s the environment most conducive to innovation, collaboration and success.

This relates to the discussion of diversity in the workplace. No longer can it simply be a checked box or a quota of various life experiences. Instead of glossing over diversity and seeking a homogenous workplace, emphasize the unique values and experiences that each member of the team brings to the table. Allowing everyone, from the newest employee to the founder, to be their authentic self will yield positive results.

It may sound easy to declare one style better than another in the abstract, but what about in the real world? Take it from one of the most successful women in history: Oprah Winfrey has said, “The secret is authenticity. The reason people fail is because they’re pretending to be something they’re not.”

It’s not only better to be authentic; in many ways, it’s easier. Think of how much effort it takes to put on airs rather than to just be yourself. Authenticity will increase efficiency and bring about a more positive work environment for everyone. Isn’t it likely that your team will work harder and accomplish more if they actually like the person for whom they work? Or, at the very least, if they understand who the leader is and know that person is sincere in their interactions? Don’t underestimate how much of a sea change an authentic leader can be for your organization.

Here’s one basic tool you can use today to make the transition from a transactional leader to an authentic one: Find clarity in your goal.

If you understand what you’re trying to accomplish, you don’t need to worry about contorting yourself to be something you’re not. Set your sights on a goal and fight toward it by being your true self.

If you can clearly articulate what you’re trying to accomplish (think back to our chapter on vision!) then you will find a workplace atmosphere that’s far better suited for success. Just like Dwight Eisenhower, you’ll know the value of each person in your office and how best to use their skills. If we put a veil over the way we are, there’s no way to succeed. Or any success that’s found will be somewhat muted in comparison to what could be. Why handcuff your potential?

About the Author: Jeff Tippettt

Jeff Tippett is the international best-selling author of two books, Pixels Are the New Ink and Unleashing Your Superpower: Why Persuasive Communication is the Only Force You Will Ever Need. Speaking to international audiences through keynotes

and seminars, Jeff helps attendees increase their effectiveness, gives them powerful tools to reach their goals, and empowers attendees to positively impact and grow their organizations or businesses.

Social Media Icons

In 2014, Jeff founded Targeted Persuasion, an award-winning public affairs + communications firm. He has worked with renowned brands like Airbnb, The National Restaurant Association, The League of Women Voters, The League of Conservation Voters, plus others. Other industry experts have validated Jeff’s work with numerous awards including the prestigious The American Advertising Award.

Metro Style

Social Media Icons

Social Media Icons

Jeff is the host of Victory by Association with Jeff Tippett, a podcast that shares the victories of association executives with the world, highlighting the great work done across this country every day.

Metro Style

Metro Style

Jefftippett.com

VictoryByAssociation.com

Product Spotlight

Permanent Holiday Lighting – Will You Join the Revolution?

In the ever-evolving world of lighting solutions, meet a new solution that promises endless opportunities for professional contractors seeking a competitive edge in the market. Introducing Infinity Lighting – a revolutionary permanent holiday lighting system designed specifically with the professional contractor in mind. This article will explain the potential of Infinity Lighting for professional contractors and how it can transform your business.

At the heart of the Infinity Lighting offering lies a product that is designed to captivate, intrigue and create lasting impressions.

It all begins with the seamless installation process that sets a new standard for efficiency and convenience. In just one day, professional contractors can effortlessly bring the magic of permanent holiday lighting to their clients’ homes and businesses. Gone are the days of time-consuming setup and takedown, thanks to permanent holiday lights that withstand any weather condition and offer longevity without compromise.

What truly sets Infinity Lighting apart from traditional holiday lighting is its versatility. From enchanting holiday displays to vibrant expressions of celebration for various occasions throughout the year, there are infinite possibilities! Professional contractors have the creative freedom to craft unique designs that resonate with their clients’ preferences and enhance the aesthetic appeal of any structure. With an ease-of-use app that even the most technologically-challenged can appreciate, Infinity Lighting opens up a new world of possibilities for contractors. Whether it’s customizing the lighting patterns or setting up themed displays for different holidays the potential to amaze and delight knows no bounds. Clients will be astounded by the ability to witness the lights vanish during the day, only to resurface in stunning brilliance at night. See for yourself

The appeal of Infinity Lighting extends far beyond residential applications. As the market remains untapped, contractors can seize opportunities in commercial and unique structural settings. From retail establishments to event venues, this attention-grabbing lighting solution promises to elevate the ambiance and boost business by drawing crowds and enhancing brand visibility. Watch to see the opportunity that awaits!

As the demand for this captivating lighting solution continues to surge, contractors can position themselves at the forefront of a rapidly growing industry. Embracing the infinite potential of Infinity Lighting enables them to establish a reputation for innovation and excellence, garnering a loyal clientele and enjoying a competitive edge in their field. Hear first-hand what a reputable AOLP contractor has to say about Infinity Lighting:

“As soon as I had permanent holiday lighting installed on my home in just one day, I found myself captivated by its endless possibilities. From playing with the color-changing aspect to creating dazzling displays for all occasions, this intuitive app-controlled lighting solution has turned my home into a year-round celebration. Being an old guy, I found the app incredibly easy to use, and I can’t get enough of the color-changing feature. One of my favorite features of the lights is that they disappear during the day and come alive at night, allowing me to create mesmerizing displays for all occasions. I’m excited to extend this enchanting experience to my neighbor’s house and can already envision its potential in residential, unique structures, and commercial settings. With its cost-effectiveness and untapped market potential, this innovative holiday lighting solution is a fast-turn investment and an attention-grabber for any space!”

– Paul Gosselin, CLVLT, COLD, NightScenes Landscape Lighting Professionals

In conclusion, Infinity Lighting allows professional contractors to embrace their potential and ride the wave of the future. With its game-changing features, ease-of-use, and endless possibilities for creativity, this revolutionary lighting solution is a gateway to success in the world of lighting design. Will you join the revolution?

Advertising Opportunities Available!

AOLP Can Help You Spotlight Your Products!

Looking for a way to target your advertising and show off new or existing products? Consider a Product Spotlight through AOLP.

The Product Spotlight provides a platform to highlight your outdoor lighting products, introduce new products and educate an audience of faithful readers on the benefits of using your products. This is a great way to make sure your products are top-of-mind with our members.

Two exclusive advertising options are available through AOLP:

• LightLines Article – one featured article

• Email blast – limited to one per month

Each Product Spotlight consists of the product name, a description and one to two images and your company logo. To better target your advertising, YOU decide exactly which LightLines issue or which month your Product Spotlight will be seen by AOLP members. (This may be combined with other manufacturer Spotlights.)

Click here to download the AOLP advertising information packet, which includes all of the details about the Product Spotlight.

If you have any questions, please call AOLP Headquarters at 717-238-2504 or email ads@aolponline.org

Earn 2x LightPro™ Reward Points

Reserve Your Hotel Room for Illuminate ‘24

February 22 – 23, 2024 in San Antonio, Texas

Plans are underway for Illuminate ‘24! Join us in San Antonio, Texas from February 22 – 23, 2024. You can now reserve your hotel room and take advantage of the discounted room rates!

Hilton Palacio del Rio

200 South Alamo Street, San Antonio, TX 78205 210-222-1400

AOLP has negotiated discounted room rates for the days of the conference as well as three days before and after the conference based on availability.

All rooms in our block are available on a first-come, firstserved basis. The negotiated room rate is only available until our block is full or the deadline date is reached.

Room Rates:

Single Occupancy: $259 (plus applicable taxes and fees)

Double Occupancy: $269 (plus applicable taxes and fees)

The reservation deadline is Thursday, January 25, 2024.

Make Your Reservation Online

Reservations can also be made by calling 210-222-1400. Mention the Association of Outdoor Lighting Professionals, AOLP 2024 Conference to receive the discounted rate.

Questions? Contact Lori Zelesko at events@aolponline.org

Stay tuned for more information!

Attention, Manufacturer Member Companies: Are you taking advantage of your FREE ad in LightLines?

LightLines, AOLP’s quarterly e-publication, is received by more than 200 companies and distributor members and is always full of good information. We know our members love reading LightLines because they have told us so through surveys, through open and click rate tracking reports and by sending us direct emails complimenting the publication.

All manufacturer members of AOLP receive one quarter-page ad in each issue of LightLines for FREE as one of your member benefits – that’s a $400 value! If you are not currently taking advantage of this benefit and would like to, simply send your FREE quarter page ad (3.5” w X 4.5” h; full color; JPG, TIF or PDF) to ads@aolponline.org. The deadline for submitting ads for the next issue of LightLines is November 1.

One more additional advertising benefit for manufacturers only… If you would like to UPGRADE your advertising presence in LightLines, you can always submit a half- or full-page ad and just pay the difference in the price. To take advantage of this offer, please fill out and submit this advertising contract – just make sure to note UPGRADE and the new ad size in the Ad Size column on the contract.

Office Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. Eastern Time

Staff Contact:

Executive Director: Lisa Ruggiers info@aolponline.org

Director of Communications: Michelle Keyser communications@aolponline.org

AOLP’s staff wants you to get the most out of your experience with AOLP. We are available to serve you, so please do not hesitate to contact staff with any question or concern that you may have. For a full staff listing, please click here

Our Mission

To promote and advance the landscape and architectural lighting industry for lighting designers and installers, distributors and business-to-business manufacturers.

is published four times annually, in the spring, summer, fall and winter.

in this e-newsletter may be

with permission of AOLP and with proper line credit.

the Board or staff.