Candlelight has always been associated with special events and can be a lovely addition to the decor and ambiance of your wedding reception. Before you get your heart set on candles, it would be best to ask the catering manager of your reception location if the use of candles is permitted. Many venues will give you the go-ahead, but some, because of local fire laws, cannot. Check it out and get it in writing. Even if a venue will allow the use of candles, it behooves you to keep in mind that candles should be kept away from drafts, whether from air conditioning or from breezes coming in through windows and doors. At best, drafts will cause candles to drip and the candles will also burn more quickly and unevenly.

Keep in mind that a room lit by candlelight will tend to appear smaller than it will if it is lit by electric lights. That will work especially well if you have a large venue with a not so large crowd. The candlelight will make the venue appear more intimate. On the other hand, a room tightly filled with people, may seem crowded when lit by candles. In that case, a combination of both may be the better option.

Regardless of the way in which your candles will be used, it is important to know the candles' burn time. Your decor will "disappear" if your reception lasts longer than your candles do. Before investing in the purchase, make sure that you'll be getting your money's worth. If you cannot contact the manufacturer for the information, you may need to buy one or more candles to do your own pre-testing.

There are several ways in which you can incorporate candlelight into the decor at your reception. Pillar candles which are available in a wide variety of sizes, colors and fragrances can be arranged in groups. These make beautiful and affordable centerpieces. Beware of scented candles which may clash with the scent of your flowers and may disturb guests who have allergies. It's probably best to buy unscented candles for use where food is being served, so as not to ruin the taste and fragrance of dinner. In order to protect the table clothes and/or tables, you will also want to make certain that the candles are "dripless." To avoid accidents, all candles should be safely anchored and secured into their holders.

Candles can be purchased in a wide variety of styles, with designs that include gold wax rings, crosses and borders, wax trim, gold rings, wedding doves and more. Some candle companies are actually able to match colors to your specifications, provided that you supply a color swatch. Candles can be accented with a variety of items such as flower petals, small blooms or seashells. Dried flowers pressed into the wax of the candle offer another alternative. Setting the candles on mirror trays will increase the amount of light they put forth and create a lovely reflection. Floating candles can be purchased in any number of flower and fruit shapes. They reflect the water on which they are floating and create a beautiful, ethereal mood.

Selecting the holders for your candles should be done with care. You will want to stay away from holders which are highly decorated, because they will detract from the candles themselves. Choose carefully and strike a good balance.

The arrangement of candles is another detail which can add to the beauty of your centerpiece. Arranging several candles of varying heights makes them more interesting. Stick with simple white, which will go with any decor, or match the candles to your wedding color scheme. If you decide to light your reception venue with candles, it is important for you to share that fact with your photographer and videographer. Low lighting will not be a problem to a professional if he or she is forewarned, so adjustments can be made for your setting.