Ever walked into a room lit by a few candles and thought, “I wish my place looked like this”? That’s the charm of taper candles. They’ve been around for centuries and yet catch people off guard with their elegance and beauty. The candles are only half of it, though, because the holders decide how the whole table looks and how steady everything stays.
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The Charm of Taper Candles
Taper candles add a touch of timeless charm that can make any room feel softer. The slim shape and gentle glow have been winning people over for centuries, and they still look right at home in a modern place. If you’re into décor, it’s easy to see why they never really go out of style.
An Elegant Shape
Taper candles are long and slim, usually 15 to 46 cm tall, with a 2.2 cm base that narrows towards the tip. That size fits almost any set of standard taper candle holders, no matter which style you pick.
You have all the creative freedom to experiment. For instance, you can group a few at different heights, and get a graceful, layered look. And if you want to keep it simple, a single one works well on its own too.
Long Way Here
Tapers go back to ancient times. The people from the ancient civilisations made these candles from tallow and beeswax. Back then, they weren’t décor at all. They were the main light source, used everywhere from fancy banquets to ordinary kitchens.
Every time you light one today, remind yourself that it carries pieces of that history. In many cultures, a lit candle also brings warmth, knowledge or connection, which is why you still see tapers in churches and at ceremonies.
Soft Light, Loads of Style
That warm glow cuts the sharp edge of modern homes and makes everything feel cosy. You can pick from plenty of colours, like bold red for your Christmas dinner, soft pastels for a spring brunch or get white candles to complement your home without changing the aesthetic.
Easy to Style Anywhere
It’s incredible how a pair of tapers in beautiful, tapered candle holders on the dining table make a typical Tuesday night dinner feel like an occasion. They look great on a mantel, a side table or in the entry, and pair well with seasonal decorations like autumn leaves or winter greenery.
The charm of a taper candle comes down to its shape, its history and that warm, flickering light. Once you light a pair over dinner, you’ll see how they change the feel of your space.
Taper Candle Holders
Most décor enthusiasts will agree that choosing the right taper candle holder is much more fun than choosing the candles. They have a bigger role in setting the whole vibe of your table, and getting a candle to stay put is easier than you’d think.
Choosing The Right Style
To see every taper candle holder available out there, you may want to look online. You’ll find there’s a style for just about every taste, and you can mix them however you like.
- Traditional: These holders are ornate and detailed, often inspired by Victorian, Baroque or Renaissance pieces. They bring a classic, timeless charm to your dining table and look good over your fireplace.
- Modern: If you’re into clean lines and simple shapes, go with candle holders for taper candles from materials like glass, metal or ceramic. They keep things sleek and let the candle stand out.
- Rustic: This aesthetic will look complete with wood or wrought iron holders or distressed finishes. They add warmth and can be plain or carved.
- Vintage: For real vintage finds, search in thrift stores and antique shops. They carry nostalgia and can feel a little one-of-a-kind.
- Eclectic: This style is all about the art of mixing everything in a way that works. Grouping different holders shows off your personality and makes for an interesting display.
Where to Put Your Taper Candle Holders
People typically use these candles as the centrepiece of their dining table. But they also go in the bathroom over your vanity for a spa feel. You can also add a few on a bookshelf, or on a side table or in the entry hallway for a warm welcome.
You’ll even see people decorating their patio or deck with them. If you’ve got stairs, a few holders along the steps look dramatic for special occasions, as long as you keep them well out of the way of feet and curious pets.
Keeping Your Candles Steady
Most taper candle holders fit a 2.2 cm base, but if yours runs a little small, there are a few things you can do to fix it. First, warm the base of the candle in your hands to soften the wax and ease it in.
But if it’s slightly bigger and it wobbles, a few simple fixes can help. Sticky tack or museum wax is the clear winner. A tiny blob on the base holds the candle firmly. This method also works with glass holders; you can barely see it. Just skip cling wrap, foil, tape, foam and adhesive buttons. They either slip, show or don’t hold.
Choose a holder that suits your style, then add a bit of tack or wax to keep things steady. Your candles will look great and stay right where you put them.
A couple of tapers and the right taper candle holders can change the whole mood of your home without costing much or taking much effort. Pick a style that feels like you, light them up, and enjoy the warm glow.
