Candlelight Centerpieces

Candlelight centerpieces can range from a small, warm, and inviting displays to a dramatic presentation with many candles and ornate accents. These pretty decorations add ambiance and character to a table setting, or draw attention to other areas of the home like a mantle or end table.

Candlelight centerpieces add warmth and flair.

Almost any type of candle can be used in a centerpiece, and you don't need to stick with only one style at a time. They can be mixed and matched in whatever pattern or freeform design you'd like. Try using some of these candles:

• Pillar candles
• Tapers
• Votives
• Tea lights
• Rolled candles
• Container or jar candles
• Floating candles

You can also mix colors and sizes, and even scents if you'd like to. Steer clear of using too many scented candles on a dining table centerpiece, however, as the strong smells can overpower the food and become unpleasant.

Keep several things in mind when creating your own candle centerpieces. Here are a few points to consider, whether you're making many centerpieces for a large event or just one for a single table:

• Size of the event – You'll need to know how many tables need centerpieces.
• Size of the table(s) – Larger centerpieces work best with large tables. If your table is very large and will seat many guests, you can opt for several smaller candlelight centerpieces, or one large one with smaller, complimentary candles at opposite ends.
• Candle colors and types – Choose candles that work with the size of the centerpiece, in whatever colors you choose. If there is a color scheme to the event or the room, try to choose candles that will match or compliment these colors.
• Accents – You can use an almost endless variety of items for centerpiece accents, such as glass beads, stones, natural items like berries and pinecones, ribbons, or small sculptures.
• Candle holders – You'll need a base for your centerpiece, which can be a candle plate, large candle holder, or anything that will hold everything together. For groups of individual candles, make sure each one has its own holder.
• Themes or special occasions – If your centerpiece is being used during a special event or occasion, you'll likely want the centerpiece to reflect this. Choose accents and candles that go with the theme.

Once you have an idea of what you want, it's easy to create candlelight centerpieces that will fit with any décor or setting.

Here are some ideas for simple yet elegant candlelight centerpieces that you can make yourself.

• Floating candles – Candlelight centerpieces that use floating candles can be perked up by adding a touch of food coloring to the water.

• Long and narrow centerpieces – For a long table, consider using a line of candles on a decorative base, along with accents, rather than a wide centerpiece that will only showcase the very center of the table.

• Personalization – For events such as weddings or anniversaries, you can have candles personalized by getting them engraved, or by using candle paints to incorporate noteworthy names and dates. You could even include a short verse or quote on a pillar candle.

• Contained candles – If there will be children present, or if your centerpiece will be sitting on a low table, container candles or those in a hurricane lamp can be safer than other types of candles. The glass surrounding the lit wick can prevent small hands from accidentally brushing the open flame. Flameless candles would be even safer.

• Mirrors – Add depth and extra light to your table by using a mirrored base for the candles. The light from the candle will reflect in the mirror to create a nice effect. Small pieces of reflective materials, like beads or metallic confetti, can also add to the overall presentation.

If you have no desire to make your own centerpieces, or are pressed for time, you can order candle centerpieces online from a variety of retail outlets. Here are some fun and different ideas.

• Candle Boutique – Candle Boutique sells pre-made centerpieces, but they also have these convenient kits that include everything you'll need to put one together at home.
• Wedding Candles (Canada) – This site has a nice variety of styles for wedding reception centerpieces.
• Ablaze Candles – These creative designs might look plain, but once they're lit they fill the area with a warm glow. The candle holders are reusable and can be used on their own, or with matching accents for centerpieces.
• Candles 4 Less – A variety of pillar candle holders can be found here. Some are pretty enough to use all on their own as a centerpiece, along with a colorful pillar candle.

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