The Romantic Candlelight Wedding

By Deborah Lewis

The dancing flames and soft shadows of candlelight impart a romantic feeling of intimacy and drama and define your wedding with unparalleled finesse. Inexpensive and lovely, candles will cast a romantic glow over your wedding event and they also have the added bonus of offering you the engaged couple a more economical alternative than other more expensive decorations. Candles create an aura of romance and whether you prefer elegant tapers, chunky pillars or pretty tea lights the choice of candles is an exquisite selection you can feel good about. Candles come in an array of colors ranging from soft ivory and white to more brilliant shades of red and purple, choosing the style and color is entirely up to you but be sure to take in account your color scheme and wedding theme when making your selection. Here are some tips for using candles in your wedding and reception.

Placement of candles -

After selecting your candles you may choose to place them in elegant candalabras or stands through out your wedding hall or church. Silver candalabras are striking when adorned with floral trellises or satin bows, but be sure to consider carefully how your church or synagogue is built and keep them far from drafty corners, you wouldn't want the ugly specter of fire to turn your wedding into a disaster. Also make sure that fire extinguishers and sprinklers work properly and are up to date, you may wish to contact your church's office for this this important information.

The Unity Candle -

Two lit candles, are placed beside the bride and groom to signify the couple's two separate lives and families before now. After the ceremony is complete the bride and groom each carry their candle to one larger unity candle which when lit will symbolize that their separate lives are joined and they now have become one. Unity candles come in white or ivory and may be embellished with colorful ribbons and include romantic sayings. The selection of a saying is usually romantic or spiritual and will reflect the feelings and traditions of the newly wed couple.

Reception -

The addition of candles upon your reception tables will enhance any decor and create an aura of beauty and romance. Whether your reception is held indoors or out the choice of candles should reflect your theme and colors. Unique ideas might include a centerpiece pillar candle adorned with roses or gardenias, of course the choice of flowers will reflect your own unique style. Bowls of floating tea light candles also make an exquisite addition and again might include rose or floral shaped candles. If you are having a beach wedding adorable flip flop or sea star candles floating in a terra cotta bowl will add pizazz and style. For a Japanese or Asian wedding you might illuminate your wedding with elegant lanterns to create an air of mystery. Whatever your choice of candles be sure to have fun decorating your event, after all it is yours and the selection of candles will speak volumes about your style.