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Light Fantastic, The

Southern Living, May 2007 by McKinney, Wanda

Whether you have a keepsake figurine, an ammo box, or a set of children's wooden blocks, David Shannon can turn it into a custom-made treasure.

A warm glow surrounds David Shannon and his wife, Amy-probably due to the plethora of lamps in their 50-year-old family business, Shannon Lamp Service. You might not think this Lexington, Kentucky, institution begun by David's father would be a fun place to visit. But it's truly an electrifying experience.

Made in the Shade

"We make our own lampshades," says David. "That enables us to customize any lamp or replace any shade." It also makes Shannon Lamp different from discount shops that order flimsy lampshades in bulk from faraway lands.

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"People get attached to lamps they've inherited from their grandmothers," he adds. "The lamps might not be priceless heirlooms, but our customers love them and want new shades."

Watt's Up

Here's the really neat thing about Shannon Lamp. You can bring in pretty much any item, and David can turn it into a lamp for you. A large plaid thermos? Yep. A stack of books. Check. A favorite toy? Just take my word for it. (Prices for custom pieces start at $85.)

Remember the Leg Lamp in A Christmas Story? Well, David can light up your life with one of those, too, for $275. And as for modernday movie props, some of his custom lamps were used in the Kentucky-based film Dreamer, starring Dakota Fanning.

David and Amy offer a wide variety of beautiful (and normal) lamps as well. One of their bestsellers has a figurine of a horse and rider as its base, popular in this equine-loving state. Prices for the bronze horse lamps range from $250 to $450.

Hit the Switch

Aside from lamps, shades, and custom work, David's father creates beautiful stained glass pieces. Like I said, the place has a glow about it. This family business emits a warmth that has little to do with bulbs and watts and lots to do with craftsmanship, tradition, and a love of lighting up peoples' lives.

-WANDA MCKINNEY

Shannon Lamp Service: 1210 North Limestone, Lexington, KY 40505; www.shannonlamp.com or (859) 255-5285.

Light Fantastic, The

Southern Living, May 2007 by McKinney, Wanda

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