Fall weddings have a magic all their own. Crisp air, rich colors, and early sunsets create the perfect backdrop for romance.

Nothing enhances that cozy atmosphere quite like candlelight.

When planning an autumn wedding or seasonal event, consider a few key factors to ensure your candles bring warmth and charm without any hiccups.

Why Candles Belong at Fall Weddings

Autumn sets the stage for candlelight to shine. As the days grow shorter, candles add a natural glow that complements the season’s deeper tones and rustic textures.

They can transform a venue, whether it is a barn reception, outdoor garden, or elegant ballroom, into something memorable and intimate.

Choosing the Right Candle Style

Not every candle is right for every moment, especially at a wedding. A few tried-and-true options:

• Taper candles bring elegance and height to long dinner tables.
• Votive candles create a soft glow without taking up much space.
• Pillar candles make a bold statement for entryways, mantles, or ceremony aisles.
• Soy candles are a smart choice for enclosed spaces since they burn cleaner than paraffin.

A mix of candle types keeps the décor visually interesting and layered.

Placement Matters: Safety and Style

Candles can be showstoppers, but placement is key. Here are a few etiquette guidelines worth following:

• Keep flames away from florals, drapery, or anything flammable.
• Vary candle heights to create dimension, but avoid blocking sightlines across tables.
• For outdoor setups, hurricanes or lanterns protect flames from wind and keep things looking polished.

Candles should always enhance the space and never distract from it.

The Etiquette of Scented vs. Unscented

This is where many couples get tripped up. While scented candles may sound appealing, they do not always pair well with food service. The safest rule of thumb:

• Use unscented candles at dining tables.
• Save lightly scented candles for spaces away from meals, such as ceremony aisles, lounge corners, or even restrooms.

This way, you enjoy the ambiance without overwhelming guests.

Incorporating Candles into Autumn Themes

One of the perks of a fall wedding is the endless décor inspiration the season provides. Think about tying candles into those details:

• Pair tapers with amber glass or brass holders for a moody, vintage look.
• Layer candles with pumpkins, gourds, or dried leaves for seasonal centerpieces.
• Add candles around firepits or lounge areas, along with cozy blankets, to encourage guests to linger after the sun sets.

These touches lean into fall without feeling cliché.

Eco-Friendly Candle Choices for Weddings

Weddings generate a significant amount of waste, but your candles don’t have to contribute to it. Sustainable swaps make a difference:

• Choose soy candles over paraffin.
• Opt for reusable glass holders or vessels you can use at home later.
• Let candles double as favors so guests can take them home and continue the memory of your celebration.

Intentional choices not only look beautiful but also align with a more mindful approach to your wedding.

A Season Made for Candlelight

Candles are more than decoration. They are atmosphere-makers. At an autumn wedding or seasonal event, they add warmth, intimacy, and style when chosen thoughtfully.

Whether you are saying “I do” under a canopy of fall leaves or gathering loved ones indoors for a cozy reception, candles create a glow that turns a special day into something unforgettable.

About The Author

Beverly Mecum

Hi, I’m Beverly Mecum, chandler and owner of Southern Oak Artisan. I believe that creating sustainable and health-minded products should not be a compromise. My goal is to curate candles that align with our aesthetic: simple, cozy, and bringing joy to your home.

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