String Light Company CSC35CB07 Copper Shade Cafe Light Review

The String Light Company CSC35CB07 Copper Shade Cafe Light delivers stunning ambiance and durable performance, making it a top choice for patios, cafes, and outdoor entertaining spaces. Featuring handcrafted copper shades and weather-resistant construction, these lights blend vintage charm with long-lasting reliability in any environment.

Key Takeaways

• Premium copper shades: Elevate ambiance with warm, elegant lighting.
• Weather-resistant design: Ideal for year-round outdoor or patio use.
• Energy-efficient LEDs: Reduce power consumption without sacrificing brightness.
• Easy installation: Hassle-free setup with included mounting hardware.
• Versatile placement: Perfect for cafes, gardens, or backyard entertaining.
• Durable construction: Built to last with high-quality, rust-resistant materials.

Why the String Light Company CSC35CB07 Copper Shade Cafe Light Stands Out

Imagine walking into a cozy backyard on a warm summer night. The air is still, the stars are out, and there’s a soft, golden glow hanging above you like a constellation of fireflies. That’s the magic of the String Light Company CSC35CB07 Copper Shade Cafe Light—a fixture that doesn’t just light up a space but transforms it into something intimate, inviting, and undeniably stylish.

When I first saw these lights, I was skeptical. I’ve tried my fair share of outdoor lighting—some too dim, others too harsh, and most just… forgettable. But the CSC35CB07 caught my eye with its copper shades and vintage-inspired design. After using them for several months across patios, pergolas, and even a small indoor dining nook, I can say with confidence: these lights do more than illuminate. They create an atmosphere. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, enjoying a quiet evening with a book, or just trying to make your outdoor space feel more like home, these cafe-style string lights deliver. And in this review, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know—from design and durability to real-world performance and value.

Design and Build Quality: Aesthetic Meets Durability

Copper Shades That Catch the Light

One of the first things you’ll notice about the String Light Company CSC35CB07 Copper Shade Cafe Light is the design. The copper shades aren’t just for show—they’re a key part of the lighting experience. Each shade is crafted from brushed copper, giving it a warm, metallic luster that softens the light and creates a directional glow. Unlike bare bulbs that can feel harsh or clinical, these shades cast a gentle, ambient light that’s perfect for dining, lounging, or conversation.

The copper finish also adds a touch of elegance. It’s not flashy or overly modern, but rather timeless—reminiscent of old-world cafes in Paris or rustic Italian trattorias. If you’re aiming for a boho, farmhouse, or industrial-chic vibe, these lights blend in seamlessly. I’ve seen them used in weddings, outdoor cafes, and even as accent lighting in modern lofts, and they never look out of place.

Sturdy Construction for Indoor and Outdoor Use

These aren’t flimsy party lights you’ll toss after one season. The CSC35CB07 is built to last. The cord is thick, weather-resistant, and rated for both indoor and outdoor use (IP44 rating). That means rain, wind, and humidity won’t be a problem—perfect for patios, porches, or covered decks.

The bulbs are enclosed in durable glass with a frosted finish, which helps diffuse the light evenly. The copper shades are securely fastened to the socket, and the entire fixture feels solid when you handle it. I accidentally dropped one shade while installing it (don’t ask how), and it survived without a scratch. That kind of durability is rare in decorative lighting.

One small note: the copper will naturally develop a patina over time if left outside. Some people love this—it adds character and a lived-in feel. Others prefer to keep it shiny. If you’re in the latter camp, a quick wipe with a copper polish every few months will keep it looking new.

Installation and Setup: Simple, Flexible, and User-Friendly

Plug-and-Play with Smart Features

Setting up the String Light Company CSC35CB07 Copper Shade Cafe Light is refreshingly easy. It’s a plug-in model, so no hardwiring is required. Just find an outdoor-rated outlet (or use an indoor one if you’re using it inside), plug it in, and you’re good to go. The 24-foot string comes with 12 bulbs spaced evenly—about 2 feet apart—which is ideal for most standard-sized patios or dining areas.

But here’s where it gets better: the lights are dimmable and compatible with most standard dimmer switches. I connected mine to a Lutron outdoor dimmer, and it worked flawlessly. You can go from a bright, functional glow for grilling to a soft, romantic ambiance for dinner with just a twist of the knob. That kind of control is a game-changer, especially if you use your outdoor space for multiple purposes.

Flexible Mounting Options

You don’t need a professional installer. The string comes with built-in hooks at each end, making it easy to hang from trees, pergolas, eaves, or even a simple nail or screw. I used small cup hooks on my pergola beams—drilled them in, hung the lights, and adjusted the sag for a slight drape. It took less than 20 minutes and looked professionally done.

Pro tip: leave a little slack in the middle. A slight curve in the string not only looks more natural but also helps with bulb longevity. Too tight, and the bulbs can rattle or get damaged over time.

If you’re using them indoors, consider using adhesive hooks or tension rods for a clean, no-damage look. I’ve seen people hang them across a bedroom ceiling for a dreamy, starry effect—perfect for a guest room or a child’s space.

One thing to keep in mind: the string is not end-to-end connectable. So if you need more than 24 feet, you’ll need to run two separate strings from different outlets. Not a dealbreaker, but worth noting if you have a large area to cover.

Lighting Performance: Brightness, Color, and Ambiance

Warm White Glow with a 2700K Temperature

The CSC35CB07 uses warm white LED bulbs with a color temperature of 2700K. That’s the sweet spot for ambient lighting—warm enough to feel cozy, but not so yellow that it feels like a 1970s basement. It’s the same tone you’d find in high-end restaurants or boutique hotels, and it works beautifully in outdoor settings.

Each bulb is 25 lumens, which might sound low, but remember: these are designed for ambiance, not task lighting. Together, the 12 bulbs create a cumulative brightness of about 300 lumens—enough to light a 12×12 foot area without being overwhelming. I’ve used them for dinner parties, and guests never complained about not being able to see their food. In fact, they often commented on how “romantic” the lighting felt.

Directional Shades Reduce Glare and Light Spill

Here’s a big win: the copper shades aren’t just decorative—they’re functional. They direct the light downward, reducing glare and light pollution. This is huge if you live in a neighborhood where bright lights can annoy neighbors or attract bugs.

I tested this by comparing the CSC35CB07 to a bare-bulb string light in my backyard. The difference was night and day. With bare bulbs, the light bounced everywhere, creating hotspots and shadows. With the copper shades, the light was focused on the table and seating area, with minimal spill into the surrounding yard. It felt more intimate and less like a construction site.

Another benefit: the shades help protect the bulbs from direct rain and debris. While the fixture is weather-resistant, the added layer of the shade gives me peace of mind during heavy storms.

Energy Efficiency and Longevity

Each LED bulb uses only 0.5 watts, so the entire string uses just 6 watts. That’s less than a typical phone charger. Even if you leave them on for 6 hours a night, your energy bill won’t budge. And with a rated lifespan of 15,000 hours (about 10 years at 4 hours per day), you won’t be replacing bulbs anytime soon.

I’ve had mine for 8 months with nightly use, and every bulb is still working perfectly. No flickering, no dimming, no failures. That kind of reliability is worth its weight in copper.

Real-World Use Cases: From Backyards to Bridal Showers

Outdoor Dining and Entertaining

This is where the String Light Company CSC35CB07 Copper Shade Cafe Light truly shines. I used it for a backyard dinner party with 10 guests. I hung the string across my pergola, dimmed it to 60%, and added some potted plants and candles on the table. The result? A space that felt like a private restaurant. Guests lingered for hours, and the lighting was a constant topic of conversation.

Tip: pair it with string lights of a different style for layered lighting. I added a few bare Edison bulbs in the trees for a “starry” effect, while the copper shades handled the main table area. The contrast created depth and visual interest.

Weddings and Events

I’ve seen these lights used at two weddings this year—one in a garden and one in a barn. In both cases, they were hung in a crisscross pattern above the dance floor and dining tables. The copper shades added a touch of vintage elegance, and the warm glow made photos look dreamy. One photographer told me the lighting was “perfect” for capturing candid moments.

For event planners: these lights are easy to install and remove, making them ideal for rentals. Just make sure you have access to outdoor outlets or extension cords.

Indoor Accent Lighting

Don’t overlook indoor use. I hung a string across a corner of my living room, near a bookshelf, to create a reading nook. The soft glow is ideal for curling up with a book, and the copper shades add a design element that complements my mid-century modern furniture.

Another idea: use them in a sunroom, kitchen island, or even a bathroom (with proper ventilation). They’re not waterproof, so avoid direct water exposure, but they work great in covered or semi-outdoor spaces.

Value and Alternatives: Is It Worth the Price?

Pricing and Where to Buy

The String Light Company CSC35CB07 Copper Shade Cafe Light retails for around $89.99. That might sound steep for 24 feet of string lights, but consider what you’re getting: high-quality materials, weather resistance, dimmability, and a design that elevates your space.

Compared to cheaper alternatives (which often use thin cords, plastic shades, and non-dimmable LEDs), this is a premium product. You’re paying for longevity, performance, and aesthetics—not just a temporary decoration.

Comparison Table: CSC35CB07 vs. Competitors

Feature	CSC35CB07	Cheap Plastic String Lights	Bare Edison Bulbs
Bulb Type	LED with copper shade	LED with plastic shade	LED (bare)
Weather Resistance	IP44 (outdoor rated)	IP20 (indoor only)	IP44
Dimmable	Yes	Rarely	Yes
Color Temperature	2700K (warm white)	2700K-3000K (varies)	2200K (very warm)
Lifespan	15,000 hours	10,000 hours	15,000 hours
Energy Use	6 watts total	8-10 watts	12 watts
Price	$89.99	$20-$30	$40-$60

As you can see, the CSC35CB07 offers a balanced mix of features. It’s not the cheapest, but it’s far from the most expensive. For the price, you’re getting a durable, stylish, and functional lighting solution that outperforms budget options and rivals higher-end brands.

Where It Falls Short

No product is perfect. The biggest limitation is the lack of end-to-end connectivity. If you need more than 24 feet, you’ll need multiple strings and outlets. Also, the copper shades, while beautiful, are fixed—you can’t swap them out for colored or frosted ones.

And while the lights are weather-resistant, the plug and cord aren’t fully waterproof. If you live in an area with frequent heavy rain or snow, consider using a weatherproof outlet box or running the cord indoors.

Final Thoughts: A Lighting Upgrade You’ll Love

After months of use, I can honestly say the String Light Company CSC35CB07 Copper Shade Cafe Light has become one of my favorite home upgrades. It’s not just a light—it’s a mood-setter, a conversation starter, and a design element that ties a space together.

The copper shades give it a timeless look, the dimmable LEDs offer flexibility, and the weather-resistant build means I don’t have to take it down every time it rains. Whether you’re lighting a patio, hosting an event, or just want to make your backyard feel more inviting, these lights deliver.

They’re not the cheapest option out there, but they’re worth every penny. You’re not just buying string lights—you’re investing in a better atmosphere, more memorable moments, and a space that feels like home.

So if you’ve been on the fence, I say go for it. Hang them, dim them, enjoy them. And the next time you’re outside with a glass of wine under that warm, golden glow, you’ll understand why I’m such a fan.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the String Light Company CSC35CB07 Copper Shade Cafe Light unique?

The CSC35CB07 combines handcrafted copper shades with weather-resistant LED bulbs, offering a warm, vintage ambiance perfect for patios or cafes. Its durable construction and energy-efficient design set it apart from standard string lights.

Are the copper shades on the CSC35CB07 cafe lights durable for outdoor use?

Yes, the copper shades are made from premium-grade material with a protective coating to resist corrosion, fading, and weather damage. This ensures long-lasting beauty even in humid or rainy conditions.

How long is the String Light Company CSC35CB07 string light strand?

The CSC35CB07 features a 35-foot strand with 12 evenly spaced copper-shade bulbs, covering large outdoor spaces or commercial settings. Additional strands can be connected for extended coverage.

Can I use the CSC35CB07 Copper Shade Cafe Light indoors?

Absolutely! These lights add a cozy, industrial-chic vibe to indoor spaces like kitchens, dining areas, or event venues. The warm 2700K LED glow creates an inviting atmosphere year-round.

Are replacement bulbs available for the String Light Company CSC35CB07?

Yes, the LED bulbs are replaceable and available through the manufacturer’s website. Each bulb is rated for 25,000 hours, minimizing the need for frequent replacements.

Does the CSC35CB07 come with a warranty?

The String Light Company offers a 3-year limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Proper installation and adherence to care instructions are required for warranty validity.