03/13/2026
Some builders love the lights.
Others love the **planning.**
One of our customers, Joseph from *The Lights of Elm Ridge*, shared a behind-the-scenes look at how he prepares for his synchronized display — and it’s impressive. His process includes a full yearly roadmap, wiring diagrams, project management timelines, and organized shelving for cables and parts so everything stays easy to find when build season starts.
For him, the planning is half the fun.
He’s even tackling some ambitious builds — including a massive 100×70 pixel matrix that tipped the scales at over 100 lbs. (which may evolve into P5 panels). That’s one of the things we love about this hobby: every year builders refine, upgrade, and try something new.
And honestly, this is one of the things we love most about this community:
There isn’t just **one way** to build a display.
Some people plan everything months in advance with diagrams, spreadsheets, and labeled bins.
Others grab a few props, start experimenting, and figure it out as they go.
Both approaches are part of the fun.
Since it’s still early in the year, this is actually a great time to start thinking about your next display. Whether that means:
• sketching out ideas
• organizing your cables and hardware
• mapping your controller layout
• experimenting with new sequences
• or just daydreaming about next season
However you approach the hobby — **planner or improviser** — we’d love to see how you do it.
👇 See the verbatim sharing from Joseph of *The Lights of Elm Ridge* below.
And if you'd like to share your own methods, planning process, workspace, or display build with the community, feel free to share the details with using the link found in the comments section. We love showcasing the people and ideas behind these amazing displays.
