Choosing the right wedding favor is one of those little details that can leave a lasting impression on your guests. I’ve decorated countless weddings over the years, and one of the most popular requests I hear from couples is about candles. Candles are timeless, elegant, and incredibly versatile, which makes them a top choice for wedding favors.
But here’s the dilemma that almost every couple faces: should you go with handmade candles or store-bought candles? Both options have their strengths, and both can play a role in creating a beautiful wedding experience. The real question is, which one will fit your vision, your budget, and the kind of memory you want your guests to take home?
This guide is designed to help you explore the benefits of each choice. As someone who has styled weddings ranging from intimate backyard ceremonies to grand ballroom receptions, I’ve seen firsthand how the type of candle favor you choose can transform the guest experience.
Why Candles Make the Perfect Wedding Favor
There’s a reason candles have stood the test of time as a wedding favor. Unlike trinkets that often end up forgotten, candles bring warmth and usefulness into people’s lives. A beautifully crafted candle doesn’t just sit on a shelf—it gets lit, filling a room with soft light or a lovely fragrance. Every time a guest lights that candle, they’ll be reminded of your special day.
Candles also carry symbolic meaning that makes them especially fitting for weddings. Light has always represented hope, love, and the warmth of togetherness. Gifting a candle is like gifting a little piece of your celebration, wrapped in symbolism that resonates with everyone.
Another reason I often recommend candles to couples is their versatility. They suit every type of wedding style—from rustic barn receptions to modern rooftop celebrations. Whether you’re planning an elegant black-tie event or a casual boho affair, candles can easily be styled to match your theme and color palette.
From a practical standpoint, candles are a universally appreciated gift. Unlike items that might not appeal to everyone, candles have a near-universal charm. Guests of all ages appreciate them, and they work beautifully for both large weddings with hundreds of attendees and smaller, intimate gatherings.
Understanding Handmade Candles
Handmade candles carry a certain charm that mass-produced candles simply cannot replicate. When I recommend handmade options to couples, it’s usually because they want something deeply personal and memorable. Each handmade candle tells a story—crafted with care, often poured by artisans who treat candle-making as both an art and a passion.
One of the biggest appeals of handmade candles is the customization. You can choose the type of wax, the scent, the container, and even the color to perfectly align with your wedding theme. Imagine soy candles poured into delicate glass jars with your names and wedding date beautifully printed on a label. Or beeswax candles shaped like roses, perfectly complementing your floral arrangements. That level of personalization creates a strong emotional connection with your guests.
Another advantage of handmade candles is their quality. Many handmade candle makers use natural waxes like soy, coconut, or beeswax, which tend to burn longer and cleaner than paraffin-based store-bought candles. This means your guests are not only receiving a beautiful keepsake but also a product that feels luxurious and thoughtful.
Sustainability is also a key factor. More couples today want eco-friendly weddings, and handmade candles often check that box. Local artisans typically avoid harmful chemicals, use recyclable or biodegradable packaging, and source materials responsibly. By choosing handmade, you’re not only supporting small businesses but also making a choice that’s better for the environment.
However, handmade candles do come with considerations. They often cost more, and depending on the number of guests, that can add up quickly. They also require more lead time, as artisans need time to craft each piece with care. If you’re planning a wedding with a very tight timeline, handmade options may require careful planning.
Understanding Store-Bought Candles
On the other side of the debate, store-bought candles provide convenience and variety. I often recommend this option to couples who are juggling a lot of details and need something that’s quick, affordable, and readily available.
Store-bought candles come in an endless range of sizes, shapes, and scents. You can find everything from chic minimalist tealights to ornate jar candles with luxurious packaging. Big retailers and popular brands also make it easy to purchase candles in bulk, which is particularly helpful for weddings with a large guest list.
Another clear benefit of store-bought candles is affordability. When working with tight budgets, it’s hard to beat the cost savings that come with mass production. You can often purchase sets of candles at wholesale prices, making it possible to give every guest a lovely favor without overspending.
There’s also the reassurance of consistency. Store-bought candles are designed for uniformity, so every candle will look and perform the same. That means no variation in size, scent, or burn time—which can be important if you want a polished, uniform look across all your favors.
That said, store-bought candles usually lack the personal touch that handmade ones carry. They may feel less special, especially if guests recognize them as common retail items. While you can still personalize them with packaging or labels, the core product may not feel as unique or meaningful as something crafted by hand.
For couples who value convenience above all else, store-bought candles are a smart option. But for those looking to weave personal details into every element of their wedding, they may not create the same emotional connection.
Handmade Candles vs. Store-Bought Candles: A Direct Comparison
When deciding between handmade candles and store-bought candles for wedding favors, I always encourage couples to look beyond the surface. Both options can be beautiful, but they serve different needs and priorities. Breaking it down into specific categories makes the choice clearer.
One of the first factors couples consider is cost. Handmade candles typically cost more because they involve artisanal craftsmanship and higher-quality materials. Store-bought candles, on the other hand, are mass-produced, which drives down the price and makes them far more budget-friendly. If you’re hosting a wedding with hundreds of guests, the price difference can be significant.
Customization is another area where handmade candles shine. With handmade favors, you can personalize nearly every aspect, from scent and wax type to container design and labeling. That flexibility allows you to create something that feels like a natural extension of your wedding theme. Store-bought candles, while consistent and widely available, rarely offer that same level of personal detail. You can still add your own touches through packaging, but the candle itself often remains generic.
Quality and materials also play a big role. Handmade candles, especially those made with soy or beeswax, tend to burn longer and cleaner. Store-bought candles, particularly budget options, may contain paraffin wax and synthetic fragrances that don’t always burn as cleanly. While guests may not always notice these details, the difference is felt in the overall experience.
From a time and effort standpoint, store-bought candles are the easiest choice. You can order them in bulk, often at the last minute, and have them delivered quickly. Handmade candles require more planning, as artisans need time to prepare custom orders. For couples who are already stretched thin with planning, convenience may outweigh the appeal of personalization.
Lastly, consider guest experience. Handmade candles often feel like a thoughtful gift—a keepsake chosen with care. Store-bought candles, while still appreciated, can sometimes feel like a standard favor. It’s not that guests won’t enjoy them, but the emotional connection may not be as strong.
The Emotional Factor: Personal Touch vs. Convenience
Over the years, I’ve learned that the emotional factor can often tip the scale in this decision. Weddings are highly personal events, and every detail is an opportunity to express your love story. Handmade candles carry that sense of intimacy. Each one feels like it was made specifically for your celebration, and guests pick up on that thoughtfulness. When a guest receives a candle that has been carefully chosen and customized, it resonates on a deeper level.
Store-bought candles, on the other hand, offer peace of mind and convenience. Sometimes, practicality is the most important consideration. If your wedding planning plate is already overflowing, adding the task of sourcing handmade candles might create unnecessary stress. Store-bought candles allow you to check “favors” off the list quickly, giving you more time to focus on other aspects of your big day.
Neither option is wrong—it comes down to what matters most to you as a couple. Do you want your favors to tell a story and reflect your personalities, or do you prefer something simple and hassle-free? That choice reflects the balance between emotional connection and practical convenience.
Which Candle Type Aligns with Your Wedding Style?
Another way I help couples decide between handmade and store-bought candles is by looking at their wedding style. Your overall theme and setting can guide you toward the option that feels most natural.
For rustic or bohemian weddings, handmade candles are a perfect fit. Think soy candles in mason jars, beeswax candles wrapped in twine, or uniquely shaped candles that add to the earthy, natural vibe. These details feel authentic in a setting where handcrafted décor is celebrated.
For elegant, luxurious, or black-tie weddings, store-bought candles often complement the style better. Sleek, uniform jar candles or branded options with sophisticated packaging add to the polished atmosphere. Guests at these weddings may appreciate the refined look and consistency that store-bought favors provide.
If you’re working with a tight budget, store-bought candles are the practical choice. You can find attractive options in bulk that still look lovely when styled with custom packaging. A simple ribbon, label, or tag can elevate even the most affordable candle.
For smaller, intimate weddings, handmade candles shine brightest. With fewer guests, you can afford to invest in artisanal pieces that feel more personal. Guests at these events often notice and appreciate the added thought that went into such details.
By aligning your favors with your wedding style, you not only make the decision easier but also create a cohesive experience that ties every element of your celebration together.
Pros and Cons of Handmade Candles vs. Store-Bought Candles
Every couple I work with appreciates a clear breakdown of the advantages and disadvantages before making a decision. Handmade candles stand out for their uniqueness, craftsmanship, and eco-friendliness. They’re customizable in ways that allow you to reflect your wedding theme and personal story. However, they come at a higher price point and usually require more time to prepare.
Store-bought candles, in contrast, are budget-friendly, convenient, and widely available in bulk. They deliver consistency and ease, which can be reassuring when planning a large wedding. The downside is that they often lack the personal touch, and guests may view them as less memorable. By weighing these pros and cons, you can determine which option best fits your wedding vision and priorities.
Cost Breakdown and Budgeting Tips
Budget is often the deciding factor when it comes to wedding favors. Handmade candles generally cost anywhere from $3 to $10 per candle, depending on size, materials, and level of customization. Store-bought candles, especially when purchased in bulk, can cost as little as $1 to $3 per piece.
For couples with large guest lists, the difference adds up quickly. For example, if you have 200 guests, handmade favors might cost $1,000 to $2,000, while store-bought options could come in closer to $300 to $600. That’s a significant gap, and it’s important to be realistic about how much of your budget you want to allocate toward favors.
One of the best tips I give my clients is to explore a hybrid approach. You can purchase affordable store-bought candles in bulk, then personalize them with custom labels, ribbons, or packaging. This way, you get the cost savings of mass production but still add a thoughtful touch that makes them feel special.
If you’re passionate about handmade candles but working with a tight budget, consider ordering smaller sizes, such as votives or tealights, instead of full-size jars. You still get the artisanal quality without stretching your budget too far.
Personalization Ideas for Candle Wedding Favors
Personalization is where candles truly shine as wedding favors. With handmade candles, you can collaborate with artisans to design something that feels unique to your celebration. Custom scents are a popular choice—lavender for a spring wedding, cinnamon for winter, or even a fragrance blend that reflects a place meaningful to your relationship.
Labels and packaging also make a huge difference. Adding your names, wedding date, or a short quote can transform a simple candle into a treasured keepsake. I’ve also seen couples package candles in small fabric bags, wooden boxes, or glass jars with lids, creating a polished look that aligns perfectly with their wedding theme.
For store-bought candles, personalization usually happens on the outside rather than the product itself. Decorative tags, stickers, or wax seals can elevate the look instantly. I always remind couples that presentation matters just as much as the candle inside. Even a modest candle can look like a luxury item when it’s beautifully packaged.
Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Options
Sustainability is becoming increasingly important in weddings, and candles are no exception. Handmade candles often win in this category because they use natural waxes like soy, beeswax, or coconut wax. These materials are renewable, burn cleanly, and avoid the toxic byproducts that paraffin candles sometimes produce.
Eco-conscious couples can also request sustainable packaging, such as recyclable glass jars, biodegradable wraps, or reusable tins. Supporting local artisans also reduces the environmental footprint associated with shipping mass-produced goods across long distances.
That said, not all store-bought candles are created equal. Some retailers now offer eco-friendly collections made from soy wax or recycled materials. If sustainability is a priority for your wedding, it’s worth doing a bit of research to find mass-produced options that align with your values.
Where to Source Handmade and Store-Bought Candles
Finding the right supplier can make the process much easier. For handmade candles, I often recommend starting with local artisans or small businesses. Farmers markets, craft fairs, and local boutiques are excellent places to discover talented candle makers. Online marketplaces like Etsy also provide endless options for personalized, handmade designs.
Store-bought candles are readily available at retailers like Amazon, wedding supply shops, and even big-box stores. Wholesale websites often sell in bulk, which is perfect for large weddings. If you’re aiming for a more polished brand-name look, well-known candle companies also offer stylish options that can be purchased in larger quantities.
No matter which direction you choose, always order samples first. Seeing and smelling the candles before committing to a large order ensures you’re happy with the quality.
Final Verdict: Which Makes a Better Wedding Favor?
At the end of the day, the answer depends on what you value most. Handmade candles are ideal if you want your favors to feel personal, meaningful, and aligned with your wedding theme. They shine brightest in smaller weddings, intimate gatherings, or celebrations where eco-friendliness and craftsmanship matter.
Store-bought candles, however, are the smarter choice for couples who prioritize convenience, affordability, and consistency. They work beautifully for larger weddings or when you’re managing multiple planning details at once.
My advice as a wedding decorator is this: don’t get caught up in choosing the “perfect” option. Instead, choose the one that best reflects your vision, your budget, and the experience you want your guests to have. Whether handmade or store-bought, the thought behind the candle is what truly makes it a meaningful favor.
FAQs About Candle Wedding Favors
Are handmade candles more expensive than store-bought for weddings?
Yes, handmade candles typically cost more because they’re crafted individually with higher-quality materials. However, smaller sizes or bulk orders can make them more affordable.
How many candles should I order for wedding favors?
Plan for at least one candle per guest, with a few extras to account for last-minute RSVPs or unexpected attendees.
Can I personalize store-bought candles?
Absolutely. While the candle itself may not be customizable, you can personalize the packaging with labels, ribbons, or decorative tags.
What candle scents are best for wedding favors?
Light, universally appealing scents work best. Popular choices include lavender, vanilla, citrus, or fresh linen. Avoid strong fragrances that may overwhelm sensitive guests.
Are candles safe as wedding favors?
Yes, but it’s best to provide safety instructions on the packaging. Remind guests never to leave a candle unattended and to place it on a heat-resistant surface.