Have you ever gazed out into the chilly dark and thought, “Who the hell is brave enough to climb up there and put lights on my gutters while the wind blows in their face?” You’re not thinking of the elves. Holiday lighting installation teams come in with power strips and heavy gloves, ready to turn any house into a beacon. They duck under low branches as they go.

For example, my neighbor once thought she could install icicle lights on a tall oak tree with just a step stool and some courage. Spoiler: After a few hours and a string of lights that got all tangled up, she gave in to the experts. A crew showed up with spools of LEDs and bundles of heavy-duty clips in no time. They worked quickly, amazingly keeping their cool and steady hands while the dog chewed on an extension cord to aid.

Before most trees lose their leaves, these pros get ready. They know a lot about their products, like how much energy the plugs can handle safely, which bulbs can endure through numerous freeze-and-thaw cycles, and which connectors can handle a winter rainstorm. What about their cars? Like rolling light stores with illuminating spheres, long-lasting C9s, and flashing devices, all ready to use right away. You may let their imaginations run wild—white on white? Of course. Bright colors that explode all the way down to the sidewalk? Why not?

Talking to them about your lighting aspirations can seem a lot like ordering a crazy lunch at a nice deli. “Do you want the trees to be tightly wrapped and the walkway to look like a landing strip?” “Oh, and do you want a handful of snowflakes that blink on the porch?” Requests for yard masterpieces and low-key sparkle alike clog up agendas. Choices grow quickly.

The clock is continually ticking. If you miss your deadline, you could end up ringing in the new year with a yard that is gloomy and bare. If you jump the gun too soon, folks will start looking at your house sideways and wondering if you’re getting ready for Halloween early. These professionals have a lot on their plates. They go from block to block, fitting in one last wrap or replacement before the sun goes down.

Then comes the harsh truth: ice storms, blown snow, and everything else that makes those beautifully hung lights not operate. Teams rush around town, mending broken wires and putting together exhibits that animals have eaten. To keep everything bright (and your fuses safe), wiring plans are made up on the spot. In the coldest winter weather, it’s an art to provide a warm, even glow.

Many families like to keep things fresh by renting their lights and changing them up every season. Companies make it easy: put up the lights, take them down, and hide them away till next season. Less worry, less clutter.

And just when you think these people are done, they’re already planning for next year. Making plans for new things, writing down “don’t forget to check the mailbox outlet for Mrs. Smith,” and answering emergency calls for light bulb replacements at midnight. You may sit inside, enjoy your hot drink, and toast the season while your home sparkles. You won’t have to do any effort from the first flick of the switch.