Candle Centerpieces
Nothing creates a soothing, romantic setting like candles. What was once the only source of indoor light for millions around the world is now the number-one mood enhancement-even more than soft music, sweet fragrances or fabulous food. Table décor is all about capturing emotion and making people feel a certain way. Candles have a unique power to do just that!
Now that you're sure you want to use candles, let's look at all the different types of candles, so you can choose the style that will work best for your event.
Pillar candles are thick, substantial candles, usually starting at more than 2" in diameter and can be as high as 48" tall, but for tabletop, a pillar 8" or less is standard. You can choose from square, round, rectangular and hexagonal shapes, just to name a few.
Tapers are also known as dinner candles. Usually ¾" to 1" in diameter and 6" to 18" high, they need to be set in appropriate candleholders.
Gel candles are produced from gelled mineral oils, which become transparent and rubbery when they're poured into molds or containers.
Floating candles are made with a low, stable profile so they can float on water, and they come in a wide variety of designs.
Filled candles consist of a non-flammable, heat-resistant container filled with wax and a wick.
Specialty candles can come in any three-dimensional shape.
Votive candles are usually 2 ½" high and either square or cylindrical in shape. They're burned in a small, heat-resistant container to control the flow of wax.
Tea light candles are tiny-just 1 ½" in diameter and about ¾" high. They're made for food warmers and tea light candle holders, which come in hundreds of wonderful designs.
Luminaries are small lights or little lanterns, usually a candle inside a paper shade, often used to beautifully light the way to a location.
Here's a chance to be creative in your design. Mix it up and use more than one kind of candle around the room and on the tables for spectacular mood lighting!