How to Choose Beeswax Candles: Tapers and Pillars
Beeswax candles bring a warm glow to a room, but the shape you choose can make a big difference in how you use them. Slender tapers look elegant along a dinner table, while a pillar can serve as a simple centerpiece or add height to a mantel display.
If you’re deciding between beeswax tapers and pillars, start with the space you want to decorate, the holders you already own, and how long you plan to enjoy the candles. This guide will help you choose a style that fits your occasion.
Choose beeswax tapers for dining tables and elegant displays
Taper candles are tall and slender, making them a natural choice for dining tables, wedding receptions, ceremonies, and holiday gatherings. A pair can frame a centerpiece, while several tapers at different heights can create a fuller display.
Height matters when choosing tapers. Shorter candles can work well where you want an understated look; taller candles draw more attention. For a dining table, consider where guests will sit and make sure the candles and holders won’t obstruct conversation.
General Wax & Candle offers 100% beeswax dipped tapers in 8-inch, 10-inch, and 12-inch lengths. Before ordering, check the candle’s base dimensions against your holders. A taper should sit securely and upright.
Choose a beeswax pillar for a simple focal point
A pillar candle stands on its own, giving you more flexibility in where you place it. It can anchor a coffee-table arrangement, add warmth to a mantel, or sit at the center of a dining display.
A single pillar creates a clean, simple look. For a more layered arrangement, combine candles of different heights while leaving enough space between them. Always place a pillar on a stable, heat-resistant candle plate or holder that can catch any melted wax.
If you want a compact option, consider our 3-inch by 3-inch beeswax column candle. Check its dimensions before choosing a plate, lantern, or decorative display.
Check the beeswax percentage before you buy
“Beeswax candle” does not always mean “100% beeswax.” Some candles are made entirely from beeswax, while others use a beeswax blend. Read each product description if the wax content matters to you, especially when ordering candles for a matching display or a specific ceremony.
Our beeswax candle collection includes products labeled 100% beeswax and 51% beeswax. Use the wax-type filter or check the individual product page to confirm what you’re purchasing. If you prefer a candle without added fragrance, check the scent information there as well.
Match the candle to the occasion
The easiest way to decide is to picture the finished arrangement:
• Dinner party: Use a pair of beeswax tapers for a classic table setting.
• Wedding or celebration: Repeat tapers along long tables for a consistent look, or use a pillar as part of a larger centerpiece.
• Everyday home décor: Place a pillar on a mantel or side table where its shape can stand out.
• Gift: Choose a candle style that suits the recipient’s décor, and include an appropriate holder if they may not already have one.
For larger events, plan the arrangement before ordering. Count the tables or display areas, decide how many candles each needs, and check the pack quantity on each product page.
Care tips for beeswax tapers and pillars
All candles need a little care, regardless of their wax type. Place them on a stable, heat-resistant surface away from drafts and anything that can catch fire. Use a properly fitting holder for tapers and a suitable plate or holder for pillars. Follow the burn and wick-trimming directions provided with your candles.
Never leave a burning candle unattended. Extinguish candles before leaving the room or going to sleep, and keep them out of reach of children and pets.
Find the right beeswax candle for your space
Choose tapers when you want height and a formal, candlelit look. Choose a pillar when you want one substantial candle to anchor a display. Then check the size, wax content, and holder requirements to make sure your choice works in the space.
Explore the beeswax candles at General Wax & Candle to compare styles and find the right fit for your next gathering or everyday display.
