12 Must-Have Details for Your Candlelit Wedding Reception
Create a glow that lingers in your guests’ memories long after the last dance.
There’s something undeniably romantic about a candlelit reception. The soft flicker of flame, the warm amber tones, the way it transforms every table into a place of intimacy and beauty, it’s no wonder candlelit weddings are having a major moment.
At The Barn at Villa Venezia, we’ve seen couples turn our rustic-chic space into glowing, dreamlike environments with the artful use of candlelight. These 12 essential details will help you set the scene for an unforgettable night.
1. Layer Different Heights of Candlelight
Varying candle heights adds visual interest and enhances the glow. Think: low votives for table-level sparkle, mid-height pillar candles for warmth, and tall tapers for drama.
2. Mix Candle Types for Texture
Combine floating candles in glass cylinders, tea lights in metallic holders, and classic wax tapers for a dynamic and curated look. This adds both depth and dimension to your tablescape.
3. Use Clear Glass or Brass Holders for an Elevated Finish
Choose candle holders that reflect your wedding style. At The Barn, we love vintage-inspired brass accents for rustic elegance or clean glass hurricanes for a more minimalist aesthetic.
4. Add Greenery or Florals Around the Base
Nestle your candles in soft greenery or delicate blooms. This not only ties in your floral design, but also enhances the natural, organic feel of your tablescape.
5. Be Strategic with Placement
Avoid crowding the center of your tables. Place candles in clusters and leave room for dishes and décor. Our in-house team is happy to help you plan the layout with both beauty and function in mind.
6. Keep It Safe
If you're using real flame, confirm with your venue which candles are allowed and how they must be enclosed. At The Barn, we welcome real candles in glass enclosures for both beauty and safety.
7. Use Candles in Unexpected Places
Beyond the tables, consider lining your aisle with lanterns, adding floating candles to outdoor cocktail hour features, or flanking the sweetheart table with glowing pillars.
8. Dim the Overhead Lights
Candlelight thrives in ambient darkness. Be sure to work with your lighting technician (or venue coordinator) to lower the main lights and let the glow shine. At The Barn, we’re experts at balancing moody lighting with photography needs.
9. Incorporate Scented Candles (Sparingly!)
If you love the idea of a signature scent, choose lightly scented candles in lounge or restroom areas. Keep dining tables scent-free to let your cuisine shine.
10. Use Candles to Highlight the Cake Table
Frame your wedding cake with candles to make it a glowing focal point. It elevates the presentation and makes for stunning photographs.
11. Let Your Photographer Know Your Vision
Candlelight requires a photographer skilled in low-light shooting. Communicate your design plan in advance so they can capture the ambiance beautifully, just like the stunning real weddings we’ve hosted here at The Barn.
12. Don’t Forget the End-of-Night Glow
Keep the romance alive through your last dance. A fiery sendoff moment creates the perfect finale.
Make It Yours at The Barn at Villa Venezia
With its soaring ceilings, exposed wood beams, and softly draped chandeliers, The Barn is a natural choice for candlelit magic, and our team will help you bring your glowing vision to life.
Book a tour or contact us today to start planning your candlelit wedding at The Barn at Villa Venezia.