The Best Candles for Every Occasion

Why you should choose different candles for different occasions

Ever wondered why candles vary so much? It's not just about looks—it's about setting the right vibe for every occasion. Let's discover why choosing different candles matters, whether you're hosting a party or just unwinding. We'll explore how the perfect candle can make any moment special.

Scent 

The aroma of a candle can evoke powerful emotions and memories, making scent selection crucial for setting the desired ambience.

For example, floral or fruity scents are ideal for uplifting moods and adding a touch of freshness to spaces, making them perfect for daytime gatherings or spring celebrations.

On the other hand, warm and spicy fragrances like cinnamon or vanilla are more suited for cosy evenings by the fireplace or intimate dinners.

Intensity

The brightness and flicker of candlelight significantly influence the atmosphere of a space. Whether you're aiming for a lively gathering or a peaceful retreat, the intensity of the light sets the mood.

Bright, flickering flames are perfect for lively gatherings and festive occasions, creating an energetic ambiance. On the other hand, softer, dimmer lights are more conducive to relaxation and meditation, offering a soothing atmosphere.

Choosing candles with adjustable wicks or varying sizes allows you to control the intensity of the light based on the ambiance you wish to create, ensuring the perfect setting for any occasion.

Duration

The length of time a candle burns is essential for maintaining the ambiance throughout an event or period of relaxation.

Opting for candles with longer burn times ensures that the atmosphere remains consistent without the need for frequent replacements. This is particularly important for extended gatherings or moments of unwinding.

Choosing candles with longer burn times, such as pillar candles or soy wax varieties, guarantees a lasting flame, allowing you to enjoy the ambience uninterrupted.

Aesthetic appeal

The visual presentation of candles contributes significantly to the overall ambiance of any setting.

From elegant taper candles for formal dinners to whimsical shapes and designs for themed parties, selecting candles that complement the decor enhances the atmosphere and creates a cohesive look.

Consider the colour, shape, and design of the candles to ensure they align with the theme and mood of the occasion. Whether you're aiming for sophistication or playfulness, choosing candles with aesthetic appeal adds an extra layer of charm to any event.

The best candles for every occasion

Ready to discover the best candles for every occasion? Whether you're planning a dinner party, a romantic evening, or a moment of relaxation, we've got you covered. Let's explore the top candle choices to set the mood just right for any event.

• Dinner parties

For those elegant gatherings where conversation flows as smoothly as the wine, selecting the right candles can elevate the entire dining experience.

Opt for tapered candles in classic hues like white, ivory, or metallics. These timeless choices provide soft, flickering light that enhances the sophistication of the occasion without overpowering the atmosphere.

To avoid clashing with the aroma of food, consider opting for unscented, or subtly-scented candles. This ensures that the delicious smells of your carefully prepared dishes take centre stage, while the gentle glow of the candles adds an extra layer of warmth and charm to the table.

• Romantic evenings

For those special moments shared with a loved one, candles can set the perfect mood for romance without going overboard.

Choose scented candles with subtle fragrances like lavender, vanilla, or jasmine to create an inviting atmosphere without overwhelming the senses. Opt for simple yet elegant candle holders or jars to add a touch of sophistication to the setting.

For a cosy night in, opt for candles with a longer burn time, such as soy or beeswax varieties, to ensure the flame stays lit throughout your intimate evening together. Whether it's a quiet dinner at home or a romantic movie night, let the soft glow of candlelight enhance the magic of the moment. 

• Relaxation and meditation

In moments of tranquillity and self-reflection, candles can be powerful allies in creating a serene atmosphere conducive to relaxation and meditation.

Opt for candles infused with calming scents like lavender, chamomile, or eucalyptus to promote a sense of peace and inner harmony. Choose candles in soothing colours like blue or green to further enhance the atmosphere of tranquillity.

Consider flameless LED candles for added safety and convenience during extended meditation sessions, allowing you to focus fully on your practice without worrying about open flames. Whether it's a yoga session or a quiet moment of mindfulness, let the gentle flicker of candlelight guide you to a place of inner calm.

• Holiday celebrations

During festive occasions, candles add a warm and inviting touch to your holiday decor, enhancing the spirit of joy and celebration.

Opt for candles in seasonal scents like spiced apple, pine, or cinnamon to evoke the essence of the holidays and fill your home with delightful aromas. Choose pillar candles in rich, vibrant colours that complement your festive decorations and add a festive flair to your space.

For added safety, especially in crowded or high-traffic areas, consider flameless LED candles that offer the same warm glow without the risk of open flames. Whether you're hosting a family gathering or simply enjoying the magic of the season, let candles illuminate your holiday celebrations with warmth and cheer.

How to look after your candles 

Caring for your candles not only ensures their longevity but also enhances their performance, allowing you to enjoy their ambiance to the fullest. Here are some essential tips for maintaining your candles:

Trim the wick

Before lighting your candle, it's essential to trim the wick to about 1/4 inch in length. This helps to control the size of the flame and prevents excess smoking or flickering. A trimmed wick ensures a clean, even burn and prolongs the life of your candle. Use a wick trimmer or scissors to trim the wick, and always remove any debris or trimmings from the candle before lighting. This simple step ensures a safer, more enjoyable candle-burning experience.

Burn time

For optimal candle performance and longevity, it's important to allow your candle to burn for a sufficient amount of time during each use.

During the first burn, ensure that the wax melts evenly across the entire surface of the candle. This prevents tunnelling and ensures that the candle burns evenly in subsequent uses.

To achieve this, allow the candle to burn for at least one hour per inch of diameter. For example, if your candle is three inches in diameter, allow it to burn for a minimum of three hours during the initial use.

Subsequently, avoid extinguishing the candle until the wax pool reaches the edges of the container. This helps to prevent uneven burning and ensures that the candle maintains its shape throughout its lifespan.

By adhering to proper burn times, you can maximise the enjoyment and longevity of your candles while minimising waste.

Avoid drafts 

When burning candles, it's essential to place them away from drafts to ensure optimal performance and safety.

Drafts, whether from open windows, fans, or air vents, can disrupt the flame's stability and cause it to flicker excessively. This not only leads to uneven burning but also increases the risk of accidents, such as wax spillage or the candle tipping over.

To avoid drafts, place your candles in a stable, draft-free location. This helps to maintain a steady flame and ensures that the candle burns evenly throughout its use.

By keeping your candles away from drafts, you can enjoy a safer and more enjoyable candle-burning experience while maximising their longevity.

Store properly

Storing your candles correctly is crucial for maintaining their quality and performance over time.

Store your candles in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Exposure to heat can cause the wax to soften or melt, while sunlight can fade the colour and fragrance of the candles.

Additionally, store your candles upright to prevent them from becoming misshapen or bent. This helps to preserve their aesthetic appeal and ensures that they burn evenly when used.

If storing candles for an extended period, consider wrapping them in airtight containers or plastic wrap to protect them from dust and debris.

Extinguish safely

Extinguishing candles safely is essential to prevent accidents and ensure a pleasant candle-burning experience.

Avoid blowing out candles, as this can cause hot wax to splatter and potentially lead to burns or damage surrounding surfaces. Instead, use a candle snuffer to gently extinguish the flame.

If you don't have a snuffer, you can also use a metal spoon or the lid of a jar to smother the flame by placing it over the wick. This method helps to extinguish the flame without creating excess smoke or mess.

After extinguishing the candle, always double-check to ensure that the wick is completely extinguished and no longer glowing. This helps to prevent the risk of accidental fires.

Find the best candle for every occasion at Briscoes

Finding the perfect candle for any occasion can elevate the ambiance and create unforgettable moments. From dinner parties to romantic evenings, relaxation, and holiday celebrations, we've explored the top candle choices to suit every event.

Discover the best candles for every occasion at Briscoes. Explore our selection to find the perfect match for your next event.