Setting a table isn’t just about the meal that it serves. It’s about the atmosphere it breathes into a room. One of the easiest, yet most elegant ways to decorate a table is with candle centrepieces. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or throwing an elaborate party, candles are a simple way to transform your space into something truly memorable.

The soft glow of a candle at the dinner table is always pleasant to observe, and by choosing a beautiful candle centerpiece for your dinner table, you’ll truly let your decorative power shine through your space. Let’s explore the various styles of candle centrepieces and learn how to best style them for your specific needs.

What Is a Candle Centrepiece?

Just as the name suggests, it’s an arrangement of one or multiple candles, often paired with florals or other decorative pieces, meant to serve as a focal point for your table. They are most commonly placed at the centre of a dining table, which is how they get their name.

Although candle centrepieces are most prominent in the event planning industry, they are also popular choices for home decor, serving as the focal point of dining tables, coffee tables, and even nightstands.

At their simplest form, candle centrepieces can be just one candle placed in a unique holder and styled at the centre of a dining table. However, what usually makes them popular choices of event decoration is their elaborate arrangements. Most often, you’ll see dozens of candles styled among vines and flowers, paired with different glassware or holders for a truly unique look.

From weddings to small home celebrations, candle centrepieces never look out of place, which is why they are the perfect decorative choice for any event.

How to Choose the Right Candles for Your Centrepiece

A beautifully styled table is in the small details. From the pattern on your dinnerware to the style of candles, every little aspect contributes to the final vision. Choosing the right candles for your centrepiece is the most important step in planning this intricate arrangement. The perfect personalisation, coercion, and styling can make your table shine; this is why you have to start from the very beginning.

Here are some popular candle styles and the primary messages they convey.

• Pillar Candles: If your event calls for a classic, rustic theme, then pillar candles are the perfect choice. These candles add volume to the centre of your table, letting their simple design speak for itself. You can surround these candles with some greenery or florals to truly make your space feel warm and inviting.

• Votive Candles: If you want to add a soft glow to your table, then votive candles are your ideal choice. Their small size makes them easy to style among other table decorations, making them ideal for increasing the intimacy and softness of your space.

• Tealight Candles: Small, intimate, and endearing, tealight candles are always a safe and inviting choice. Their miniature size makes them the perfect source of soft lighting for your table without overcrowding your other table arrangements.

• Lantern Candles: Maybe more on the bold side, but whimsy is always welcome in any space. Lanterns add a vintage touch to your space, bringing elegance to your dinner table. These candles are the perfect finishing touch for any outdoor area.

Choosing the Right Candle Holders 

The candles lie at the heart of every candle centrepiece, but sometimes, by themselves, aren’t enough to bring your vision to life. A great way to accentuate the appearance of your candles and truly make your centrepiece the talk of the night is by adding candle holders.

Here is some practical advice to keep in mind when selecting:

Different Types 

There are dozens of styles available, each suited for different settings and types of candles. The most important thing to consider when selecting holders is that they should complement the style of your candles. Candle holders are meant to elevate the candle’s aesthetic, not overpower it. Metal candle holders are great for contemporary settings, while wooden ones add the perfect rustic touch to your table.

Matching Your Holders to the Table’s Aesthetic

Different table settings call for distinct styles of holders. Blending the aesthetic of your table with the style of your candle centrepiece can sometimes be a tricky task. However, candle holders are a great way to tie the aesthetic of your table to your centrepiece. Carefully examine your aesthetic needs before purchasing candle holders, as they can be quite a bold addition to your table.

Choosing the Right Material

Different materials of candle holders are best suited for different settings. For modern events, consider using metal or glass holders to enhance the elegance of your table. On the other hand, intimate ceremonies are best suited for wooden or mixed holders with a vintage and intimate design.

How to Place Candles for a Stunning Table Display

No matter your event theme, style, or aesthetic, here are some popular ways to style your candles around the table.

• Glass Display: Tall centrepieces can add a touch of elegance to your table, not to mention help you maintain a neat appearance even among heavy decor. Glass displays are a great way to elevate your candles without obstructing the view of your guests.

• Floral Decor: One of the most creative ways to style your candle centrepiece is by placing your candles amongst flowers, vines and greenery. This way, you add the perfect boho touch to your table, while creating a nature haven for chatting and dining.

• Functional Designs: Who says candle displays can’t be functional too? You can use pillar candles or candles with more volume to support table numbers, engrave intimate details, or hold up greeting cards.

• Colour Blocking: A popular trend on the rise, both in fashion and decor, is colour blocking. To “block a colour”, you should pair it with a contrasting colour to make them mutually stand out. Consider choosing a red tablecloth and pairing it with some green candles.