The Complete Guide to Wedding Table Candles: How to Create Stunning Centrepieces
Incorporating wedding table candles can transform your reception space, creating a romantic atmosphere that will leave you and your guests glowing. The warm glow of wedding candles will set the perfect tone for your special day. Candles not only add a touch of elegance but also create an intimate atmosphere that leaves a lasting impression on your guests.
In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about wedding table candles—from choosing the right type to determining how many candles per table you’ll need. Whether you’re planning a grand affair or a small, intimate gathering, this guide will help you create stunning centrepieces that shine.
Why Wedding Table Candles Are Essential
Ambiance and Mood
Wedding table candles play a crucial role in setting the mood for your reception. The soft flicker of candlelight creates a warm, inviting atmosphere that’s perfect for a celebration of love. Candles are classic and timeless, matching with any wedding theme. Whether your wedding is during the day or at night, candles can enhance the overall ambiance, making your venue feel more intimate and romantic.
Versatility
One of the best things about wedding table candles is their versatility. They can be incorporated into any wedding theme—be it rustic, modern, vintage, or bohemian. Candles can stand alone or complement other decor like flowers, greenery, and fairy lights, seamlessly tying together your overall decor.
Cost-Effective Decor
Candles are also a budget-friendly decor option that doesn’t compromise on style. Whether you opt for magical floating candles or elegant pillar candles, they can add a luxurious feel to your tables without breaking the bank.
Types of Wedding Table Candles
Pillar Candles
Pillar candles are a popular choice for wedding tables due to their sturdy, self-standing nature. They come in various heights and can be used as the focal point in larger centrepieces. Their solid form allows them to burn for hours, making them ideal for long receptions.
Taper Candles
Taper candles are tall and slender, often used in candelabras or individual candle holders. Their elegant appearance makes them perfect for formal settings. These candles add height and sophistication to any table, making them a great choice for traditional or vintage-themed weddings.
Votive Candles
Votive candles are small, usually about two inches high, and are often placed in glass holders. They’re versatile and can be scattered across tables to create a soft, intimate glow. Votives are an excellent choice for adding a touch of light without overwhelming the decor.
Floating Candles
Floating candles are a unique and beautiful option for wedding tables. These candles are designed to float on water, creating a serene and elegant effect. They are typically round and small enough to fit inside glass bowls, vases, or other containers filled with water. Floating candles are perfect for adding a romantic, ethereal touch to your wedding decor, especially when paired with flower petals or greenery inside the water.
How to Choose the Right Wedding Table Candles
Consider the Venue
When choosing your wedding table candles, the venue plays a significant role. For indoor weddings, you might opt for unscented candles to avoid overpowering aromas. In contrast, outdoor weddings can benefit from citrus-scented candles to keep bugs at bay. Additionally, consider the venue’s lighting conditions—darker venues can handle more candles, while brighter spaces might only need a few for added warmth.
Match the Wedding Theme
Your choice of candles should complement your wedding theme:
Rustic Weddings: Consider candles wrapped in burlap or placed in mason jars.
Elegant Weddings: Sleek metallic candle holders or crystal accents pair beautifully with taper or pillar candles.
Modern Weddings: Minimalistic designs with geometric candle holders or monochromatic schemes work well with simple, clean candle shapes.
Color Coordination
Candle colours should either match or complement your wedding colour palette. For example, warm tones like gold and burgundy are perfect for fall weddings, while pastel shades like blush and lavender are ideal for spring. You can also use candles as a contrasting element to make your tables pop.
Scented vs. Unscented
While scented candles can add another sensory dimension to your decor, it’s important to consider your guests' comfort. If you’re serving a meal, unscented candles are the safest choice to avoid conflicting with the food’s aroma. However, if you’re set on scented candles, choose mild, universally pleasing scents like vanilla or lavender.
How Many Candles Per Table for a Wedding?
General Guidelines
The number of candles you’ll need per table depends on the table size and layout. It’s crucial to strike a balance between aesthetics and functionality. Overcrowding tables with too many candles can be overwhelming, while too few can leave your tables looking sparse.
Specific Recommendations
Round Tables: For standard 60-inch round tables, 3-5 candles arranged in a clustered or circular pattern often work best. You might combine different sizes for visual interest.
Long Rectangular Tables: For banquet-style tables, spacing out 5-10 candles along the length of the table creates a consistent glow. You can place them evenly or cluster them in groups for a dynamic look.
Sweetheart or Head Tables: Since these tables are smaller, 2-3 prominently placed candles are usually sufficient. Focus on symmetry to frame the couple or bridal party attractively.
Examples of Candle Placement
Clustered Centrepieces: Create a focal point by grouping candles of varying heights in the centre of each table, surrounded by flowers or greenery.
Scattered Arrangement: Place smaller candles like tea lights or votives in a scattered pattern across the table for a more casual, twinkling effect.
Candle and Floral Combinations: Integrate candles into your floral arrangements by placing them at the base of vases or among the flowers for a cohesive look.
Creative Ideas for Wedding Table Candle Arrangements
Floating Candles in Glass Vases
Floating candles are an elegant option, especially when placed in clear glass vases filled with water. Add flowers or petals to the water for an extra romantic touch. This setup works beautifully in both indoor and outdoor settings, particularly for evening weddings.
Candle and Mirror Combos
Placing candles on mirrors can amplify their light, creating a dazzling effect. Use round or square mirrors under pillar or votive candles to reflect the flame and add depth to your table decor. This arrangement is not only beautiful but also easy to DIY.
Candle and Lantern Pairings
For a rustic or vintage touch, pair your candles with lanterns. Mix different sizes and styles of lanterns with candles inside to create a charming, warm glow. This combination works well for both indoor and outdoor receptions and adds a cosy, nostalgic feel.
Geometric Candle Holders
For a modern wedding, consider using geometric candle holders. These sleek designs add a contemporary touch to your tables. Choose materials like gold, copper, or black metal to match your wedding’s colour scheme and overall aesthetic.
Safety Considerations When Using Wedding Table Candles
Fire Safety
Safety should always be a priority when using open flames at your wedding. Make sure candles are placed away from flammable materials like flowers, napkins, and table runners. Additionally, it’s wise to assign someone the task of monitoring the candles throughout the event to ensure they’re burning safely.
Wedding table candles are a simple yet powerful way to enhance your reception decor. Whether you choose pillar candles, tapers, or tea lights, the right arrangement can create a stunning visual impact that will be remembered by your guests. Remember to consider your venue, theme, and table layout when deciding on the type and number of candles to use. With careful planning and a touch of creativity, your wedding tables will glow with elegance and charm.
Ready to start planning your wedding table decor? Explore our collection of wedding candles and accessories to find the perfect match for your big day. Whether you’re purchasing or DIY-ing, we’ve got everything you need to create beautiful, glowing centrepieces.