How to Choose Candles for a Dinner Party
There’s something inviting about sitting down to dinner by candlelight. Candles make an everyday meal feel more thoughtful and give guests a warm welcome before the first dish is served. You don’t need an elaborate centerpiece to get the effect. A few well-placed candles can be enough.
The best arrangement depends on your table, the food you’re serving, and the atmosphere you want to create. Here’s how to choose candles for a dinner party that looks beautiful and works for your guests.
Plan Around the Meal
Start by setting out your plates, glasses, napkins, and any dishes you expect to keep on the table. This shows you how much space is available for candles.
If guests will pass serving dishes, keep the center of the table easy to reach. On a small table, a pair of tapers or a few votives may be all you need. A longer table gives you room to repeat small groups of candles without concentrating everything in one spot.
Choose Tapers for an Elegant Table
Taper candles add height and a classic look. Place a pair on either side of a modest centerpiece, or space several holders along a long dining table.
Check the arrangement from a seated position before guests arrive. Everyone should be able to see and speak to the person across from them comfortably. Make sure each taper fits securely in its holder and stands straight.
Use Votives to Keep the View Open
For a lower display, try votive candles. Their small size makes them useful between place settings or alongside taller candles. They can also bring a soft glow to a table where flowers or serving dishes are the main feature.
Give each votive enough space so guests can reach their glasses and move dishes without brushing against a flame. Several candles placed with intention will usually look better than crowding every open area.
Let the Food Be the Focus
Unscented candles are a practical choice for the dining table, especially when you’re serving a meal with its own wonderful aromas. They provide candlelight without adding another fragrance to the experience.
If you enjoy scented candles, you can still use one to welcome guests in the entryway or living room before dinner. That lets you enjoy the fragrance while keeping the table focused on the food.
Pick Colors That Suit Your Setting
You can coordinate candles with your table linens, dishes, or the season. White and ivory create a timeless look. Warm neutrals and deeper colors can make a fall gathering feel cozy, while a single color repeated across the table gives a more polished effect.
The candles don’t all have to be identical. If you mix heights or styles, use a limited color palette or similar holders to bring the arrangement together.
Do a Final Check Before Lighting
Once the table is fully set, sit in a few of your guests’ seats. Check that candles won’t block conversation or interfere with serving. Keep flames away from napkins, flowers, and decorations, and place candles on stable surfaces where they won’t be knocked over. Never leave burning candles unattended.
A dinner party table should feel comfortable as well as beautiful. Choose candles that give everyone space to eat, talk, and enjoy the evening. Explore the General Wax candle collection to find a style that suits your next gathering.
