Taper Candles: How To Use and Display Them  

With their slender and elongated form, taper candles exude a timeless elegance that has graced dining tables, mantels, and ceremonies for centuries. They offer more than just illumination; they set a mood, create ambiance, and often become a focal point in decor. However, as simple as they might appear, there's an art to using and displaying them to maximize their beauty and ensure safety. Whether aiming for a romantic dinner party setting or a serene evening of reflection, understanding how to use and showcase taper candles can elevate any occasion. In this guide, we'll delve into what is a taper candle and the nuances of these candles, offering insights and tips to make them shine in all their splendor.

What are Taper Candles?

Taper candles are distinguishable by their slender, elongated shape that tapers from a broader base to a narrower tip. With a length ranging from 6 to 18 inches or more, their design allows them to be held upright in candlesticks or candelabras. Unlike pillar or votive beeswax candles, tapers are free-standing and rely on holders to keep them erect. But why do so many buy candles? Taper candles, originating from ancient civilizations, have historically been used for both practical illumination and ceremonial purposes. And what are taper candles used for? Their graceful, statuesque form lends them an air of sophistication, making them a favorite choice for formal events, romantic occasions, and traditional settings.

What Makes a Good Taper Candle?

A high-quality taper candle is not just about appearance; it's about functionality, safety, and longevity. Here's what you should consider when seeking a good taper candle:

• Burn Time: Quality tapered candles should have a consistent and extended burn time. Typically, a good taper candle can burn for 6 to 8 hours or more without issues.
• Dripless Design: Nobody wants a messy pool of wax on their furniture. Premium tapers are often dripless, which burns cleanly without leaving a waxy residue.
• Smokeless: A quality candle produces minimal smoke, ensuring a cleaner candle burn and reducing potential soot on walls or ceilings.
• Sturdy Base: The base of the taper should fit snugly into standard candleholders, ensuring stability and reducing the risk of tipping.
• Materials: Candles made from high-quality waxes, such as beeswax or premium paraffin, tend to burn more cleanly and evenly than those made from lower-quality materials.
• Even Coloring: If the taper is colored, the hue should be consistent throughout, ensuring a uniform look as it burns.
• Fragrance (optional): While many taper candles are unscented, those with a fragrance should release a subtle, pleasant aroma when lit.

How to Display Taper Candles?

Given their inherent elegance, taper candles can be the star of any setting when displayed thoughtfully. Before you buy taper candles, here's how to make the most of their beauty:

Use Different Heights

Variations in height can create depth and interest in your display:

• Layered Look: Position candlesticks or candelabras of varying heights together. This staggered presentation can create a dynamic, multi-dimensional look, especially effective on dining tables or mantels.
• Wall Sconces: These are another excellent way to play with heights. Fix them at different levels on a wall for a captivating visual effect.

Mix and Match Colors

While uniform colors can exude sophistication, don't be afraid to mix things up:

• Seasonal Themes: Opt for colors that match the season—warm, rich tones for fall, pastels for spring, or icy blues and whites for winter.
• Occasion-Based: Choose colors that resonate with the theme for events or celebrations—for instance, reds and whites for Valentine's Day or greens and golds for festive holidays.
• Gradient Effect: Arrange tapers in an ombre effect, transitioning from dark to light hues or vice versa.

Use Different Shapes and Textures

Diversifying tapered candle holders and their surroundings can make a significant difference:

• Eclectic Holders: Combine ornate, vintage candlesticks with minimalist, contemporary ones. The juxtaposition can be both eye-catching and conversation-starting.
• Surroundings: Place tapers amidst other decor elements. Surround them with flowers, crystals, or even geometric shapes for a layer of visual intrigue.
• Textured Mats or Runners: Use textured mats or runners beneath the candlesticks if displayed on a table. Materials like burlap, silk, or even velvet can add a tactile dimension to your candle display.

Best Ways to Use Taper Candles

The classic elegance of taper candles makes them versatile for various occasions and settings. Here are some of the best ways of how to use taper candles:The classic elegance of taper candles makes them versatile for various occasions and settings. Here are some of the best ways of how to use taper candles:

• Dinner Settings: The quintessential use for taper candles. Their soft glow creates an intimate and romantic ambiance, making meals memorable.
• Weddings and Events: Line aisles with tapers, place them on reception tables, or use them in ceremonial rituals to create an elegant, fairy-tale feel.
• Meditative Spaces: Tapers can be instrumental in creating serene environments for meditation or reflection. Their calm, steady flame is perfect for focus and relaxation.
• Holiday Decor: Be it Christmas, Hanukkah, or any festive occasion, taper candles can elevate holiday decor. You can pair them with wreaths, used in centerpieces, or placed on window sills for a warm, welcoming glow.
• Entryway Accent: Position tall candleholders with taper candles on entry tables or sideboards. They act as a beacon, welcoming guests into your home.
• Bathroom Bliss: While less common, placing taper candles in bathrooms during baths can create a spa-like experience, making relaxation sessions even more indulgent.

How Long Does a Taper Candle Burn?

The answer to “How long do taper candles burn?” is simple. Burn time largely depends on its size, quality, and its materials, typically:

• A standard 10 to 12-inch taper candle can burn for approximately 6 to 10 hours.
• Tapers from higher-quality waxes, such as beeswax, tend to have longer burn times than those from lower-quality materials.
• Other factors, such as the presence of additives, the wick's size, and the candle's diameter, can also influence burn time.

When purchasing, it's essential to refer to the manufacturer's specifications or product details, as they often provide an estimated burn time. Regardless, always keep an eye on burning candles and keep them away from flammable materials for safety.

Do You Need a Candle Holder for Taper Candles?

Yes, taper candle candle holders are crucial. Given their slender and elongated design, taper candles cannot stand independently and require a stable base. But before you buy candle holders, here’s why using a candle holder is essential:

• Safety: The primary purpose of a candle holder is to provide a stable platform, preventing the candle from tipping over and potentially starting a fire.
• Collect Dripping Wax: Even with dripless designs, occasional drips can happen. Candle holders catch these drips, protecting surfaces from wax stains.
• Enhance Aesthetics: Some candle companies’ candle holders come in various designs, from minimalist to ornate, enhancing the taper candles' visual appeal.
• Protect Surfaces: The holder's base is a barrier between the burning candle and its placed surface, protecting it from heat or potential wax spillage.
• Extend Candle Life: Some holders position the candle upright, ensuring even burning and preventing the wick from being drowned by melted wax.

Conclusion

With their delicate elegance and timeless charm, taper candles can illuminate spaces and occasions in the most enchanting way. While their beauty is undeniable, understanding their nuances— from selecting quality candles to displaying them with artistry— amplifies their effect. Furthermore, the use of appropriate candle holders ensures not just aesthetic enhancement but also safety, which should always be paramount. Whether you're setting the stage for a romantic dinner, creating a tranquil sanctuary, or celebrating life's special moments, taper candles, when used thoughtfully, can turn ordinary settings into magical experiences.