Candlelight makes everyone look lovely…but they aren’t necessarily a ‘cheaper option to florals’. I am not sure where or how this rumor began but for decades I have cringed every time I have seen a post or heard ‘I want to use candles so it is less expensive’
Candles aren’t cheap, period. And just like guests when you start to multiply them the cost increases! Things to consider are the candle wax quality, how long it will burn for and what is the candle holder. Don’t get me wrong, I LOVE candlelight! But, when thinking about the vibe you want to create using candlelight keep these 5 things in mind.
- Is candlelight allowed at your venue? Open flame can be tricky, some venues don’t allow it at all while others have requirements that open flame is enclosed in a glass shade.
- No candles on the ground! Candles look lovely along the staircase or a ceremony aisle, don’t they? Yes, BUT keep in mind those gorgeous flowing dresses, cathedral veils, long coats and other garments tend to sweep along and can easily catch the flame. Trust me, I’ve seen a few things happen in my days as a designer and planner.
- LED Candles save the day! or do they? Battery operated LED candles come in all shapes and sizes these days and can easily stand in for open flame candles in many instances. Think about renting these to stretch the decor budget. Look at your local event rental companies or ask your planner about options.
- Candle Math. I always say more candles are better but they do add up! If you have 10 tables and let’s say there are five votive candles and a collection of 5 pillar candles to create a candle scape at the center of the table… that is 50 pillar candles and 50 votive candles just for the tables. Add some candles for the ceremony or other reception decor including seating card table, architectural accents like mantles and staircases that is A LOT of candle budget.
- Who is lighting all of these candles? This is no small feat. Lighting or ‘turning them on’ is a job that sometimes requires a team. Don’t assume your waitstaff or planner is going to handle this and they really shouldn’t… it is a decor team task. It takes time, and attention to detail. & then they all need to be turned off or extinguished. There is a process that a professional decor team will use so that there is not candle wax on your rental linens or that all of the LED candles are turned off, collected and packed appropriately.
