A wonderful way to have a cozy leisure evening is with battery-operated lights. Create a calm, relaxing atmosphere by providing portable, soft illumination without the use of fire.

A hot bath and a glass of wine is elevated by the use of a few flameless candles. Setting a dinner table with flameless tapered candles is a modern twist.

Sitting on the patio with friends and rambunctious pets is a perfect opportunity to use flameless candles. Instead of firewood in the fireplace, consider purchasing a collection of flameless candles that come with a remote control.

These candles are available for purchase at nearly all retailers and online. Pillars, tapers, votive, scented, colored, individual, large sets and with real wax. Choose the flameless candles that meet your specific needs and read reviews to gauge quality.

There are also lanterns for campers who depend on artificial light to navigate the darkness. Lanterns are a bit rugged in look and style. If the power goes out in your home, these lanterns or flameless candles will become your best friends.

Save a little money on energy bills and use a flameless luminary when appropriate. My favorite flameless candle sets are the ones that flicker by use of a remote control. Batteries are generally in the remote upon purchase, and most of these candles require AA batteries, so keep plenty on hand.

For those that have a yard, the presence of solar powered lights placed in the ground are terrific. A small way to add value and safety to your property and keep walkways safer.

How about lighting up the swimming pool or your favorite cocktail? Well, this is easily achieved with boogie lights.

I discovered them on a trip to Atlantic City. They’re one-inch acrylic cubes that offer strobing lights when activated by cold liquid. What a blast to see them twinkle in several colors at once. BPA free, made of food grade plastic and non-toxic.

One way to use empty wine bottles and become more sustainable is with wine bottle lights. A faux cork, battery-operated LED mini string lights. Very thin wire with tiny lights is attached to the plastic cork which has the on/off switch. These lights are fun and a great conversation topic when entertaining.

The lights don't burn for a long time, but the batteries are replaceable. Always read manufactures instructions and follow the guidelines for any flameless product. These battery-operated luminaries make great hostess gifts and be sure to get a few for yourself.

Wanda Haynes is a travel and leisure columnist, and a certified sommelier.

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