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Candles were once only used for illumination and religious celebrations. Nowadays, they've become the norm in our home decor. Not only can adding a candle to your space bring a peaceful and charming glow, but it can also enhance its overall design. There are so many different ways to put them on display — you can keep them plain, put them in a statement vessel or try out one of these creative candle decoration ideas.
Here, you'll find tons of DIYs and design ideas to spark your imagination. From votive to taper to pillar and beyond, there's a candle style, shape and scent that perfectly matches the mood you want to evoke. Whether you want to add an understated glow to your living room with a mirrored candle tray, decorate your mantel with an illuminating arrangement or dress up your spring table with a statement centerpiece, there's an idea on this list for any and every occasion. And while some of the following ideas teach you how to make your own candles from scratch, go ahead and browse through our favorite scented candles to get glowing, stat.
1
Cane Votive Candles
Layer texture and warmth into your display by placing small votives in natural cane webbing candle holders.
2
Easter Egg Candles
DIY your own spring centerpiece by cracking open dyed eggs and filling each one with a tealight.
3
Dual Copper Candlestick
If you're looking for an eye-catching centerpiece, try this simple yet elegant copper candlestick. Plus, it brings double the light.
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4
Black Stone Candleholders
A grouping of black geometric candlesticks offers a classic yet bold look on any mantel, shelf or tabletop.
5
Golden Pillar Candlesticks
Antique gold candlesticks add sparkle to any room, especially when the light hits them just right.
6
Wicker Candle Holders
Bring a coastal vibe to your space by using wicker candle holders. Find a few larger vessels in the same design to be used as vases for floral arrangements.
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7
Restored Pottery Vessels
Looking for a unique way to decorate your bookshelf? Turn thrifted ceramic pieces into one-of-a-kind candle vessels and place them on book stacks.
8
Mirrored Candle Tray
Use an old mirror as a tray to bounce the candle's light around the room.
9
Red Candlestick Duo
Even though they're in the same hue, these taper candles bring dimension and drama to a moody red space.
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10
Well-Dressed Mantel
Your fireplace mantel is a great spot to put candles on display. Opt for taper candles in statement hurricanes, so the light can reflect off of the glass.
11
Pumpkin Candle Holder
Come fall, try using your mini pumpkins as candle holders. Simply remove the stem to create a flat surface, then stick votives on top.
12
Simple Glass Lanterns
Lanterns can easily be moved to different spaces. In the warmer months, scatter some around your back porch or outdoor seating area for added light.
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13
Wooden Wick Candles
Wooden wick candles emit a crackling sound as they burn, similar to a wood-burning fireplace. Adding your own label gives it a personal touch.
14
Modern Candlesticks
Geometric candle holders stand out against softer accents. They also emphasize whatever lies between them, like the floral bouquet shown here.
15
Statement Gold Candlesticks
With a wide base and bowl-shaped top, these tapered candlesticks really make an impression on a glass coffee table.
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16
Candle With Faces
There's a certain fascination with candles featuring sculpted faces and expressions. Adding them to your living room is a creative way to inspire conversation with guests.
17
A Playful Glow
Everything looks pretty in pink — even your candles. Stick tea lights in pink candle holders to illuminate your space with a touch of playfulness.
18
An Understated Trio
Light a trio of neutral-colored candles on a small table in your living room or bedroom to create a sense of calm.
Mariah Thomas
Assistant Editor
Mariah Thomas (she/her) is an assistant editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers home and lifestyle content. Mariah has more than four years of editorial experience, having written for TLC, Apartment Therapy, Women's Health and Avocado Magazine. She received her master's degree in journalism at the Craig Newmark Graduate School of Journalism and published her first book, Heart and Soul: Poems of Thoughts and Emotions, in 2019. She's also the founder of RTF Community a platform for creatives of color to connect, learn and showcase their work.
