Romantic Candlelit Wedding Reception: Your Guide to Pillar Candles

romantic candlelit wedding reception

Planning your own wedding is a joyous process, but there’s no denying that things can get a bit hectic at times. Apart from choosing a venue, making a guest list and finding THE dress, you’ll need to go over a myriad of tasks and decisions. Dealing with this seemingly endless to-do list can take your focus from what matters the most – the ambience.

The ambience and atmosphere are what you and your guests will remember in years to come. Although the occasion, venue, and music will certainly do the trick of setting the right mood, certain ways can help you envelop the reception with magic, warmth and cosiness. One of them involves using pillar candles as part of your decor.

What are Pillar Candles?

Reminiscent of load-bearing pillars, these self-supporting candles are made of rigid wax, requiring no container or holder to stand tall and stable. Prized for their long, smokeless burn times, pillar candles are an ideal choice for weddings and other religious and spiritual ceremonies. Another great thing about them is that they come in a variety of shapes and sizes, so you can get creative with different forms and heights to create unique arrangements.

Tips on Choosing Your Wedding Candles

If you decide to use these beauties to light up the atmosphere at your wedding reception, you’ll probably need a dozen or more to do so. That’s why the first thing you should do is look for reliable suppliers offering bulk buy pillar candles. This is extremely important because not every vendor can handle large orders. Of course, you can always buy from two different suppliers but there might be a difference in quality, design and price.

wedding pillar candles
Source: candleco.com.au

Speaking of price, that’s another great reason why you should bulk buy pillar candles. When you buy in bulk, the price of individual units or sets tends to be lower. Weddings are expensive, and if you see a chance to save an extra buck, by all means, grab it. On that note, consider ordering pillar candles online. Online stores often offer lower prices since they have fewer overhead costs.

With that out of the way, let’s explore your wedding day candle options.

Wax Type

Pillar candles are usually made from paraffin wax because it offers great structural rigidity and long burn time. It’s also one of the most affordable and versatile waxes around. However, since it’s a product of the oil industry, it’s not the eco-friendliest option. If you decide to buy paraffin candles, ensure that they don’t contain lead or additives that give off toxic fumes when lit.

Beeswax pillars are eco-friendly, sustainable and non-toxic, offering long and clean burn time. Be that as it may, they aren’t vegan-friendly, so that’s something to consider. Probably the biggest downside of beeswax candles is their price which is significantly higher when compared to other types.

Pillar candles can also be made from palm wax, a 100% plant-based and natural ingredient. Now, this may make you think that it’s a planet-conscious choice, but in fact, palm oil candles come at a hefty environmental cost.

Sizes

Pillar candles come in various sizes, from tall to stubby and everything in between. That’s what makes them so versatile and fun to work with. If you’re planning on using them as part of your table decor, you can order sets comprised of large, medium and small candles. Consider adding this beautiful trio on each table as a romantic centrepiece.

pillar candles in different sizes
Source: thespruce.com

Scents

Although you can find scented pillars, it’s best to leave those for your relaxing rituals or romantic date nights at home. Not only because food and fragrance don’t always mix well, but also because some guests may suffer from allergies or find a particular scent off-putting. Be a thoughtful host, and go for unscented candles.

Colours

You don’t have to think long and hard about this one. When it comes to weddings, white and off-white hues are a timeless classic and they can effortlessly blend in into any type of decor. So make things easier for yourself and choose white candles.

How to Use Candles as Decor

There’re numerous ways these simple yet pretty candles can add charm and beauty to your reception. On the table creating a centrepiece, on the sides of paths and stairways illuminating the way, on the walls adding a mesmerising backdrop, hanging from the ceiling inspiring amazement—the options are endless and equally gorgeous.

stairways decorated with pillar candles
Source: freepik.com

Closing Thoughts

The gentle giants of candles are the ultimate ambience generators, exuding romantic vibes and timeless elegance. On a final note, please remember that although the big beautiful pillars are self-supporting and less likely to topple over, it’s important to use them safely for the best experience. This means you should never leave them unattended while burning or near the reach of children attending your wedding.