An Affordable & Romantic Centerpiece Idea: Candles

Looking for a way to save money on wedding reception deécor without sacrificing style? Scale back on floral centerpieces and use candles as the tables' focal point instead. Glowing, flickering candles add a dramatic, romantic touch to your party. Plus, they're an instant mood setter, creating a warm and cozy atmosphere. (Bonus: Everyone looks better in candlelight, too!) The secret to transforming a classic candle centerpiece into something statement making is to use the lights en mass — don't hold back! Luckily, since they're so cheap, you can afford to buy in bulk. To help inspire your own candlelit reception, we rounded up a few of our favorite examples.

In the photo above, Seattle-based florist McKenzie Powell of McKenzie Powell Floral & Event Design decorated long reception tables with clusters of ivory-colored pillar candles arranged in varying heights, accented with fresh greenery and juniper berries. To achieve the unfussy yet utterly sophisticated look, Powell arranged the greenery very loosely. Also, the berries add another layer of texture and nicely contrast the white linens.

Above, a tall arrangement of fresh greenery is accented with loads of taper candles arranged in clear wine bottles, used as holders. The combination is so simple and striking, but still super easy to replicate. The floral design and deécor for this Calistoga, CA wedding was created by Sonoma-based Daisy Rose Floral Design.

The above wedding centerpiece idea, photographed by Landon Jacob, is another picture-perfect option. The modern square vases each contain a votive candle and look so elegant when they are arranged in succession down the length of the long farmhouse tables. (You could very easily purchase the white frosted-glass vases in bulk quantities online.) The place settings also echo the square theme, while the all-white elements pop against the dark mahogany tables.