Types of Wedding Candles: A Guide

Candlelight is part of the magic by which memories are made. Casting a soft glow over the entire proceedings, luxury wedding candles are an integral part of the ambience that makes a big day so special.

Table with striped table cloth featuring paris gray and ivory taper candles
A 5 picture college of wedding pictures featuring pillar and taper candles

Whether you line the aisle with tealights, create a stunning, statement tablescape with tapers, or transform secluded spaces into glowing corners - candlelight brings the depth that wedding décor needs.

From softened shades that make for more flattering photography to the golden warmth that they radiate, the benefits of setting scenes by candlelight are tenfold.

So, what are the different types of wedding candles, and where do they work best? In this guide, we explore how to use different types of candles and where you can source the best luxury wedding candles. Want to save these ideas for later? Download the guide to keep and share.

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An elegant white staircase with paris grey pillar candles placed on the staircase
The Sweeping Staircase

Nothing channels fairytale romance quite like pillar candles positioned on the stone steps of a grand staircase. Whether you’re decorating a fine French chateau or a sleek city hall, pillar candles and steps are a winning combination.

The walkway to an alter with green and red plants, with lit up pillar candles
Flawless Floors

Just like on staircases, pillar candles are equally as enchanting when styled on the floor. Position in gorgeous groups alongside the aisle, at the altar, or elsewhere in the venue for true romance throughout.

A rustic fireplace with greenery and white lit up pillar candles displayed around it
Mix & Match

What’s better than one size and shade of pillar candle? Several sizes and shades of pillar candles, of course. Simply stunning in groups, pillar candles are available in a selection of heights, widths and colors, meaning you can completely customize any wedding theme.

A yellow fern plant with white and misty morning pillar candles
Pair With Foliage

Beautiful blooms, grasses, and dried flowers are perfect for adding texture alongside picturesque pillars. Pick out statement stems from the bridal bouquet for a continued theme.

A bride turned away from the camera surrounded by lit white pillar candles
Statement Simplicity

Planning a minimal, fuss-free wedding in the classical style? Pillars are perfect. Seamlessly chic, these candles come into their own in simple glass containers.

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Cozy outdoor display with three pillar candles of red white and saffron varying in height. A fluffy blanket, two coffee cups and a chrome round bowl.
Multiple taper candles as the center piece of a long table with dinner placements.
Pair Tall With Short

For depth and variation, and to illuminate people’s features from all angles, choosing tapers of different heights can have a whimsical effect on your tablescape. For a more structured look, mirror the candles in ascending or descending order.

A round marble table with taper candles and flowers. This scene is cozy but still elegant.
As Above So Below

Taper candles can have a dramatic effect when positioned on different levels, including the floor. Emitting a soft, golden light, they are perfect for pairing with gold-finish candle holders.

An outdoor spring themed display with main color being cornflower. Taper candles
Complement Your Color Scheme

The beauty of luxury candles is that they come in many colors, without compromising on burn quality or glow. Picking out a statement shade from the wedding theme for the taper candles is a great way to tie together the whole venue.

12in ivory taper candles on candle holders as table decoration. With white flower bouquet.
Tap Into Trends

Opting for a retro, reclaimed look? Whether you’re styling an antique interior or keeping things simple and contemporary, taper candles are entirely versatile. Pair with ornate candelabras for a regency feel or instead opt for sleek, minimalist holders for a modern mood.

Votive Candles

Favored for their ample burn time and compact, convenient size, votive candles can be used to create many different moods throughout a venue. Originally used for sacred prayers and special ceremonies, votive candles are the perfect choice for more traditional weddings.

Wedding Favors

As votive candles completely liquify during the burning process, they need to be housed in vessels made of materials such as glass or metal. For this reason, they make great wedding favors or placeholders for guests to take home and reuse as trinkets.

Set Up Photo Spaces

Emitting a romantic glow, votive candles are easy to transport and place, making them a good option for creating photo settings for both the bridal party and guests to take advantage of. Dress up darker corners or make the most of outside environments with these compact candles.

The Lantern Effect

Enhance an already perfect outdoor wedding by adding a delicate and understated touch of candle light. Simply place a votive candle in a glass lantern or even wire-rimmed mason jar and place them on a specially designed suspension holders or hang them from tree branches, archways, ceilings. The possibilities are endless with our votive candles. They will add class and luxury to any event.

Elegant table placement with white pillar candles decorating the table adding a perfect touch of light.

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Decorative lanterns hanging from trees in a garden setting

A Sky Full of Stars

Whether the wedding is taking place indoors or out, creating a sky of stars will make for truly unparalleled settings. Simply place tealights in glass jars, lanterns or specially-designed suspension holders and hang them from tree branches, archways, ceiling beams, or marquee joists.

Along the Aisle

The walk down the aisle will be one of the most memorable steps that many people take in their entire lifetime. Adding romance and candlelight to that journey will only make it even more special.

Collage of images with lit tea lights
Mason jar with flowers and tea light

Understated Table Décor

If you’re keeping things soft and simple, tealights work well as part of an existing tablescape, creating a diffused, low-level glow.

Place in Jars, Containers and Lanterns

Thanks to their conveniently compact proportions, tealights can be placed into decorative holders. For the most alluring effect when illuminated, we suggest metallic or mottled holders that will create refined reflections.

Collage of candlelight and fairy light displays

Decorate a Wedding with a Little Help from Creative Candles

Whatever the style, theme, or venue, our inspiring collection of artisan-crafted candles take wedding décor to the next level. Illuminating any space with their soft, golden glow, our candles are available in over 40 different colors, with beeswax and metallic options also available. Known internationally for unrivaled quality, Creative Candles have been making weddings more enchanting since 1961.

Rustic wedding cake table with tall taper candles