Ever struggled with droopy candles, waxy messes, or that awkward moment when your table setting just feels… incomplete? Candle holders aren’t just décor, they’re the unsung heroes of serene homes and elegant dining. Let’s tackle the common candle frustrations and uncover how the right candle holder can transform your space and your experience.
What Are Candle Holders Called?
While “candle holder” is the classic term, you’ll also hear “candlestick” (for holders with a stem), “candelabra” (for multiple arms), and “votive holder” (for small, squat candles). Each type offers a different look, whether you’re aiming for Nordic minimalism or dramatic centrepiece vibes.
Candle Types and the Right Holder for Each
- Taper Candles: Long and slender, ideal for classic candlesticks and elegant dinner settings. These create height and drama, perfect for centrepieces or mantel displays where you want soft, vertical lines.
- Pillar Candles: Chunky and substantial, pillars need sturdy, flat holders or plates. These are great for sideboards, coffee tables, or anywhere you want a bold, glowing statement.
- Tealights vs. Votives: Tealights are small, usually in metal or plastic cups, and are perfect for scattering ambient light in clusters or lanterns. Votives are similar in size but are designed to be burned in snug glass holders, offering a longer, more contained burn. Both are brilliant for creating a cosy, inviting atmosphere. Use tealights for dotting around a room, and votives for a more focused, radiant glow.
Different Styles of Candle Holders—From Subtle to Statement
There’s a candle holder for every mood and occasion. Simple, low-profile holders seem to melt into their surroundings, letting the candle itself do all the talking; perfect for a pared-back, calming look. Single tall candlesticks add elegance and height, drawing the eye and casting beautiful shadows at dinner. For a bolder statement, opt for double or triple holders—these generous designs are ideal for creating a sense of abundance and warmth. And if you want to go all out, elaborate, almost gothic styles become true centrepieces, bringing drama and artistry to your room. Whether you crave subtlety or drama, choosing the right style lets you create the exact atmosphere you desire.
Hurricane Glass: The Perfect Blend of Style and Safety
Hurricane glass candle holders are a game-changer for both indoor and outdoor spaces. These glass cylinders shield the flame from drafts and curious pets, preventing wax splatters and giving a warm, flicker-free glow. They’re ideal for garden tables, patios, or even as a stunning feature on your mantel. Think of them as practical elegance that elevates any setting while keeping things safe.
Why Do Candles Cost So Much?
Ever wondered why a handcrafted candle feels like a luxury? It’s all about quality. Hand-poured and hand-dipped candles, like those from Ester & Erik. Also, the use of pure waxes and real essential oils like with Chapter Organics, mean no harsh notes of artificial fragrances. This means a cleaner, more authentic scent that fills your home without those synthetic, distracting notes. Pure wax also burns longer and more evenly, but it comes with a price tag. Ultimately, you get a safer, more beautiful burn and a scent that truly elevates your mood.
What Surface Can You Put a Candle On?
Safety and style go hand-in-hand. Always place candles on heat-resistant, stable surfaces: think stone, tile, or metal trays. Avoid wood and fabric to prevent scorch marks and fire hazards. Candle holders designed with sturdy bases and drip-catching details make it easy to enjoy candlelight without the stress.
How Do You Burn Big Candles?
Big candles add drama, but burning them properly is key. Always allow the wax pool to reach the edges before extinguishing. This prevents tunnelling and extends burn time. Use a tall, stable candle holder to keep things safe and chic.
Where to Put Big Candles?
For dinner parties, taller candles in elegant holders make faces glow and shadows dance, creating that magazine-worthy ambience. Place them at the centre of your dining table or on a mantelpiece for instant impact. Cluster different heights for a modern Nordic look that draws the eye and warms the soul.
How Do You Get Candles to Stick to Candle Holders?
Nothing ruins the mood like a wobbly candle. Here’s a pro tip: hold the base of your candle in warm water for a few seconds to soften the wax, then press it gently into the holder. This creates a snug fit without damaging the candle or risking a topple mid-dinner!
What Do You Call the Thing That Puts Candles Out?
That’s a “candle snuffer”, the classic tool for extinguishing flames without blowing hot wax everywhere. It’s a must-have for a tidy, stress-free candlelight experience.
What to Do With Candle Holders When You Don’t Have a Candle
Don’t let your candle holders gather dust between uses. Repurpose them as mini vases for fresh blooms or dried grasses, holders for decorative stones or shells, or even as unique organisers for pens or brushes. Hurricane glass holders look especially elegant filled with fairy lights, seasonal foliage, or baubles for a touch of year-round Nordic style.
Conclusion:
Candle holders do more than cradle your candles, they solve everyday problems, add style to your space, and help you create a serene home. From understated low holders to dramatic gothic centrepieces, and from taper to pillar to hurricane glass, the right choice can totally transform your dining experience or cosy evenings. Ready to elevate your home? Explore our curated collection of Nordic-inspired candle holders and discover the perfect blend of form and function
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