The Ultimate Guide to Using LED and Taper Candles for Wedding Decor

Weddings are special occasions that deserve to be celebrated with elegance and charm. One of the most romantic and versatile elements to incorporate into wedding décor is candles. Whether you opt for the glowing warmth of LED candles or the classic elegance of taper candles, they can transform any wedding venue into a magical space. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to use both LED candles and taper candles to create stunning wedding décor while keeping your special day safe, beautiful, and on-budget.

Why LED and Taper Candles Are Perfect for Wedding Decor

Candles have always been essential in creating a beautiful ambiance at weddings, adding to the elegant candle decor that enhances the overall atmosphere.

The soft flicker of candlelight evokes romance and serenity, perfect for ceremonies and receptions alike. LED candles and taper candles both offer distinct advantages that make them ideal for wedding décor.

◉ LED candles provide a safe, low-maintenance option with no risk of fire hazards. Their realistic appearance and battery-powered convenience make them an ideal choice for venues that require strict safety protocols or where real flames are not permitted.

◉ Taper candles, on the other hand, offer a traditional, sophisticated look that complements almost any wedding style. The tall, slender candles are perfect for creating elegant centrepieces, aisle markers, or ambient lighting at the reception.

Whether you choose one or both, LED candles and taper candles can work together to create a wedding atmosphere full of warmth and romance.

Choosing Between LED and Taper Candles for Different Wedding Styles

When choosing between LED candles and taper candles, it’s important to consider your wedding’s theme and overall style.

◉ LED candles are perfect for modern, chic weddings, especially when you need consistent lighting or want to highlight certain features without worrying about wax drips. They’re ideal for outdoor weddings, beach themes, or venues with high ceilings where candles might be difficult to manage.

◉ Taper candles are perfect for more traditional, vintage, or rustic weddings. Their classic look adds elegance to any table or aisle and complements a more formal atmosphere. Consider taper candles for candlelit receptions or ceremony settings that evoke timeless beauty.

How to Use LED Candles for Safe, Beautiful Wedding Lighting

If safety is a top priority for your wedding décor, LED candles for weddings are a perfect solution. Here are some ways to incorporate them seamlessly into your wedding:

1. Aisle Lighting – Line the aisle with LED candles in glass lanterns to create a beautiful, glowing path for the bride. Since they don’t pose a fire risk, they are ideal for long ceremonies where real candles might be a concern.

2. Reception Tables – Use LED candles as part of your centrepiece design. Place them in decorative holders or lanterns for a consistent glow throughout your reception.

3. Outdoor Weddings – For a night under the stars, LED candles are a reliable choice for outdoor lighting. They can easily withstand wind and weather conditions, ensuring your wedding remains illuminated all night.

4. Floating LED Candles – Add a touch of elegance by floating LED candles in water-filled glass bowls or vases for a dreamy, reflective look at your reception.

Creating Stunning Centrepieces with Taper Candles

Taper candles are a classic wedding ceremony lighting, offering tall, slender elegance to any arrangement. Here’s how to create stunning centrepieces using  tall taper candles:

◉ Simple and Elegant – Place taper candles in crystal or brass candle holders to create a timeless, elegant centrepiece. Pair them with fresh flowers or greenery for a natural, romantic look.

◉ Rustic and Boho – Use taper candles in wooden or mason jar holders for a rustic wedding. Add wildflowers or dried blooms to complement the earthy atmosphere.

◉ Luxurious Glamour – If your wedding is all about luxury, consider using taper candles in gold or silver holders. Pair them with metallic accents or crystals to create a lavish centrepiece fit for royalty.

Using Candles to Highlight Key Wedding Features (Like the Aisle or Reception Table)

Candles are not just for creating ambiance; they can also highlight key features of your wedding venue, making them a perfect addition to wedding reception ideas that enhance the overall décor.

◉ The Aisle – Line the aisle with LED candles or taper candles in glass holders for a beautiful, illuminated path. You can also use larger candles to mark significant spots, such as where the bride and groom will stand during the ceremony.

◉ Reception Tables – Arrange taper candles in clusters or alongside floral arrangements to create an elegant and welcoming atmosphere for your guests.

◉ The Cake Table – Add a romantic touch to your cake display by surrounding it with LED or taper candles. Their warm glow will enhance the beauty of your cake and bring attention to the special moment.

How to Mix LED and Taper Candles for a Unique Wedding Atmosphere

For a truly unique wedding décor, try combining LED candles and taper candles for a multi-layered effect. Here’s how:

◉ Create Depth – Use taper candles as your primary light source on tables and accentuate them with LED candles placed in the background. This will create depth and dimension while ensuring the lighting stays consistent.

◉ Highlight Features – Mix LED candles with taper candles to highlight important areas of the wedding venue, such as the reception stage or altar. Use LED candles in places where safety is a concern and taper candles where the traditional elegance is desired.

◉ Vary Heights and Holders—To add visual interest and variety, Mix tall taper candles with shorter LED candles in different holders. This approach works particularly well for centrepieces and long tables.

 

◉ Create a Soft Glow
Use LED candles for a gentle, continuous glow in the background and taper candles to focus on romantic wedding lighting at key locations like the bridal table.

◉ Consider Candle Placement
Position LED candles in areas with more movement, such as near the dance floor, while placing taper candles in stationary spots like the aisle or on tables. Blend both candle types for stunning candle centerpiece ideas to achieve a harmonious, elegant display that elevates the overall atmosphere.

◉ Incorporate Candleholders with Personalised Touches
Choose candleholders that match your theme, such as vintage ones for taper candles and modern holders for LED candles, adding contrast and style.

◉ Layering with Floral Arrangements
Place taper candles amidst floral centrepieces and scatter LED candles around them to create a glowing halo effect that enhances the overall decor.

Candle Safety Tips: Keeping Your Wedding Beautiful and Safe

While candles create a beautiful atmosphere, safety should always be a top priority. Here are some tips to ensure your wedding remains safe and stunning:

1. Use Safe Holders – Always use appropriate holders for LED candles and taper candles. Proper holders ensure candles stay upright and reduce the risk of fire hazards. Choose holders with weighted bases for LED candles and sturdy designs for taper candles to catch any wax drips.

2. Keep Candles Away from Flammable Items – Never place candles near curtains, tablecloths, or any other flammable items. Ensure LED candles are in flame-proof containers and taper candles are placed far from any materials that could catch fire easily.

3. Supervision – Do not leave candles unattended. Designate someone to monitor the candles during the ceremony and reception to ensure safety. This is especially important for taper candles, as they can spill wax or cause a fire if knocked over.

4. Check LED Candle Batteries – Ensure that the batteries in LED candles are fresh and fully charged before the event. Consider having extra batteries on hand if any need replacing during the celebration to ensure continuous lighting.

5. Opt for Flameless Candles in High-Traffic Areas – Use LED candles to eliminate the risk of burns or accidental fires for busy areas like the reception or dance floor. Real wax LED candles can mimic the look of traditional candles while providing safety.

6. Keep Candles Away from Walkways – Position candles safely out of the way of foot traffic to prevent accidental knockovers. Avoid placing candles along main walkways, aisles, or near the dance floor.

7. Fire Extinguishers and Emergency Kits – Confirm that your venue is equipped with fire extinguishers and has emergency procedures in place. Having an emergency kit and safety plan ensures you're prepared for any accidents.

8. Avoid Overloading – Don’t overcrowd your tables or centrepieces with too many candles. A cluttered arrangement increases the risk of accidents. Opt for a few well-placed candles that will safely illuminate your wedding décor.

Budgeting for Candle Decor: How to Make the Most of Your Wedding Budget

Candle décor can be a beautiful yet affordable way to enhance your wedding. Here are some budget-friendly tips:

1. Mix and Match – Use LED candles in places where you can’t use real candles, like outdoor areas or high-traffic spaces, and reserve taper candles for focal points like the reception tables or ceremony space.

2. DIY Candle Holders – Save money by creating your own candle holders using items like mason jars, vases, or decorative glassware. This can add a personal touch to your wedding décor.

3. Bulk Buying – Purchase candles in bulk from wholesale retailers like Holstens to get the best value for your wedding.

Illuminate Your Wedding with Stunning Candlelight

Incorporating LED and taper candles into your wedding décor can help create an enchanting atmosphere, regardless of your wedding style or budget. Whether you prefer the modern convenience of LED candles or the timeless beauty of taper candles, they can transform any space into a romantic, glowing setting. With the proper planning and creativity, your wedding will shine with the warm glow of candlelight.

Looking for more stunning wedding lighting ideas to make your wedding unforgettable? Explore the latest wedding trends, tips, and inspiration on the Holstens Blog to help you plan the perfect day. Contact Holstens for more inspiration and expert advice!