Candles are a timeless element that can add warmth, elegance, and romance to your wedding atmosphere. Beyond simply adorning reception tables, there are numerous creative ways to incorporate candles throughout your celebration to enhance ambiance and aesthetics.
Ceremony Aisle and Pathway Lighting
Line the aisle with candles in hurricane vases or lanterns, like this gorgeous wedding in Malibu; lining the aisle or entryway with candles in hurricane vases or lanterns is a beautiful and classic image. Down the aisle creates a magical pathway for the bride and groom as they make their entrance, especially effective for evening or indoor ceremonies. In the entryway or staircases, candles guide guests to different areas of your venue. This not only helps with navigation but also adds a romantic touch as evening transitions into night.
Altar or Archway Accents
Arrange clusters of candles around your altar or archway. This not only frames the focal point of your ceremony but also adds a soft, flickering glow to your vows and photographs.
Hanging Installations
With the utmost care and venue approval, of course, I’ve seen couples create ethereal ambiance by suspending candles from tree branches, arches, and/or ceiling fixtures. The height and drama these visuals add to your venue are whimsical and will add an almost fairy-tale-like atmosphere.
Welcome, Lounge and Seating Areas
Use candles to decorate your welcome sign or entrance area. Place them in lanterns or glass cylinders amidst greenery or floral arrangements to set the tone for the event from the moment guests arrive. Enhance the cozy ambiance of lounge and seating areas with clusters of candles on side tables, coffee tables, or scattered throughout the space. This encourages guests to relax and mingle in a warmly lit environment.
Cocktail Hour Glow
Just like the classic dim of a bar or lounge, illuminate your cocktail hour space with candles placed on high-top tables, bars, or lounge areas. Create a vibe your guests won’t soon forget.
Dessert Table and Cake Display
Instead of traditional reception table centerpieces, highlight your dessert table or cake display with candles placed strategically around the setup. Consider incorporating them into floral arrangements. This draws attention to these sweet focal points and adds a soft, flattering light for photos.
Favors or Keepsakes
Here’s an idea! Give guests mini candles as wedding favors or keepsakes. Personalize them with your initials or wedding date for a thoughtful touch that extends the magic of your day beyond the event itself. You can even have custom-scented candles created – the same ones you use at the wedding – to enhance the sensory experience for your guests and remind them of your incredible event long after they’ve returned home.
Candles are versatile decor elements that can transform any wedding venue into a romantic and enchanting space. As I’ve said before, there is big power in small details. Whether used subtly for ambiance or as statement pieces in your decor, their warm glow and flickering light add a touch of magic to every moment of your special day. By exploring these creative ways to incorporate candles, you can weave magic into your wedding, making your celebration truly memorable.
xoxo,
Mindy
Images by Amy & Stuart and John & Joseph and Jose Villa
