Don't Underestimate The Power Of These Tiny Lights by Karen Sullen

Most times, when people think about candle centerpieces, pillar candles come to mind. But they are only the beginning. There are a host of other candle options available, including taper, gel, floating, votives and luminaries to name a few. But of all of these, the tea light candle is probably the most versatile. You'll find them in all sorts of places and many kinds of vases. Usually about 1 ½" in diameter and only about ¾" high, they might appear to bring only a tiny glow to the table, but they can ignite a host of ideas. For just about every theme, there are plenty of creative ways to incorporate tea lights in your décor.

Dinner for Two: Place a tea light candle into a wineglass and cover it with a vellum shade. The subtle glow inside will keep the mood romantic. This idea can also be used for bridal showers, weddings and any other affair where a soft glow is needed.

Beach Centerpiece: If you have a sea shell, some sand and a tea light, you've got everything you need to create a wonderful beach-themed centerpiece. Just fill the shell with the sand and insert the tea light candle down to the level of the sand. It's a beautiful yet easy accent to your tropical table. For a different look, try sand castle tea light holders.

Table Accent: If you have already decided on a floral centerpiece, surround it with tea light candles to really add a spark to the design. For dinner parties, banquets and receptions, the addition of candles is always an elegant touch. Just place them inside a small bowl or votive holder and scatter them around the table.

Candle Cover Up: One way to dress up your tea lights is to cover the metal container they come in. The standard height for the tea light is about 5/8”, which makes it the perfect size for ribbon of the same width. Wrap a piece of double-stick tape around the entire metal band on the outside of the tea light. (If you're using a lacy ribbon, be sure the tape is transparent.) Press one end of ribbon onto the tape and wrap it around the tea light until it is completely covered. Trim the excess ribbon, and you've got a color-coordinated addition to your table for pennies. Nestle them between flowers, place them along a mantle or ledge or cluster a few in unexpected places, like bathrooms.

Tea Light Fruit: Create an all-natural tea light holder with fresh fruit. This is a smashing idea for a casual garden wedding, rehearsal dinner or backyard BBQ. Simply wash and dry large apples. Using a tea light candle for a template, score the top of the apple as your cutting guide. Then, carefully cut into the apple about 5/8 “ deep (which should be about the depth of the tea light). Remove the fruit from the hole, and rinse with lemon juice to prevent browning. Place a tea light candle in the hole and light just before your guests arrive.

About The Author

Karen Sullen is a write for Centerpiece Studio, an online store specializing in wedding and table centerpieces. You can shop for candle centerpieces at: http://www.centerpiecestudio.com/candles.html