When I step into a wedding venue, one of the first things I notice is the lighting. It’s incredible how much the right kind of light can set the tone for the entire celebration. Among all décor elements, candles have a special role. They don’t just provide illumination—they create emotion, romance, and intimacy that no electric bulb can replicate.
For many couples, the biggest decision is whether to use lantern candles or candelabra candles. While both create beautiful moods, they offer very different aesthetics and practical benefits. Over the years, I’ve styled weddings that relied solely on lanterns, others that embraced the grandeur of candelabras, and many that combined the two. Each approach has its charm, and the choice truly depends on the couple’s vision.
If you’re torn between lantern candles and candelabra candles, let me share what I’ve learned from years of decorating weddings. This guide will help you see the differences clearly so you can decide which one sets the perfect mood for your big day.
The Importance of Candlelight in Weddings
Candlelight has always symbolized warmth, love, and unity. It’s no wonder that candles are such a timeless part of wedding ceremonies and receptions. When I design a wedding space, I often use candles as more than decoration—they become a storytelling element. Whether it’s the soft glow of lanterns lining an aisle or the dramatic flicker of candelabras on a reception table, candlelight transforms a venue instantly.
The beauty of candles lies in their versatility. They work with every wedding style—romantic, rustic, elegant, modern, or even bohemian. Unlike electric lights, which can sometimes feel harsh or artificial, candles add softness to photographs and create a cozy atmosphere for guests. I’ve seen how couples and their families relax in candlelit spaces, how conversations become more intimate, and how the entire setting feels warmer and more inviting.
Another reason candlelight is so important is its symbolism. For centuries, couples have used candles in wedding rituals to represent unity, faith, and eternal love. Today, whether through a unity candle ceremony or simply through décor, the glow of candles continues to carry emotional significance. Choosing the right type of candles is not just about design—it’s about what story you want your wedding to tell.
What Are Lantern Candles?
Lantern candles are candles enclosed in a protective frame, often made of glass and metal, though modern designs sometimes feature wood or even acrylic. I love using them because they bring a sense of charm and character to a wedding. The flicker of the flame through the glass panels adds a cozy yet elegant feel, making them perfect for both outdoor and indoor settings.
One of the main reasons lantern candles are so popular is their versatility. They come in countless shapes and sizes—from small, rustic wooden lanterns that look beautiful hanging from tree branches, to tall, elegant black iron lanterns that can frame a ceremony aisle. When paired with florals or greenery, lanterns create a grounded, intimate look that feels natural and inviting.
I often recommend lantern candles for couples who want to emphasize warmth and romance without going too formal. They are especially well-suited for outdoor weddings, where the glass casing helps protect the flame from wind. Whether you’re hosting a garden celebration, a beach wedding, or even a rustic barn event, lanterns feel right at home.
What Are Candelabra Candles?
Candelabra candles, on the other hand, are all about drama and grandeur. A candelabra is a decorative stand—usually metal or crystal—that holds multiple taper candles. When lit, they create an impressive vertical display of light, instantly elevating the look of any venue. I often describe candelabras as statement pieces because they don’t just blend into the background—they command attention.
When I bring candelabra candles into a wedding design, I’m usually aiming for elegance and sophistication. They’re perfect for classic, black-tie weddings, or for couples who want a touch of old-world romance. I’ve seen them used as centerpieces for long banquet tables, lining up in perfect symmetry to cast a glow over the entire room. The height they add creates dimension, making them ideal for spaces that need a little extra drama.
Of course, candelabras aren’t limited to formal weddings. Depending on the style, they can be adapted to suit modern or even eclectic themes. For instance, a sleek gold candelabra with slim white tapers can look contemporary, while a rustic wrought iron one might bring a vintage charm. What I love most is that they immediately signal celebration and elegance, making guests feel like they’re part of something truly special.
Lantern Candles vs. Candelabra Candles: Key Differences
When I compare lantern candles and candelabra candles, I don’t see them as rivals but as tools for creating different moods. Each brings its own charm, but the way they impact the atmosphere is very distinct.
Lantern candles are grounded. They create a sense of intimacy by casting light at a lower level, closer to the ground or table. This makes them perfect for creating cozy corners, highlighting walkways, or framing ceremony aisles. The glow feels soft and inviting, like a quiet whisper of romance.
Candelabra candles, in contrast, are elevated. They draw the eye upward, making them perfect for adding height and grandeur to a space. The vertical lines of taper candles command attention and give a feeling of celebration that is both bold and elegant. Their light spreads wider across a room, bathing guests in a collective glow rather than focusing on small areas.
The placement options also highlight the differences. Lanterns can sit on the floor, hang from hooks, or be clustered on tables. Candelabras, however, usually dominate a table or focal point, making them more of a statement piece. In practical terms, lanterns are easier to move and arrange, while candelabras often require careful setup and balance.
Pros and Cons of Lantern Candles
Over the years, I’ve leaned on lantern candles for their adaptability. Their biggest advantage is versatility. They look just as good in a rustic barn wedding as they do in a modern rooftop celebration. Their protective casing makes them a safe and reliable option for outdoor ceremonies where wind could be a concern.
Another strength is how easily they pair with florals and greenery. I often place lanterns along the aisle with soft petals around them or cluster them in the reception area surrounded by lush arrangements. They blend seamlessly into décor without overshadowing other elements.
That said, lanterns do have limitations. Because they are enclosed, the candlelight can sometimes appear softer or dimmer compared to exposed candles. This is ideal for creating a subtle mood, but it doesn’t provide the same dramatic effect as candelabras. Lanterns also take up more physical space, especially on tables. If you’re working with smaller reception tables, they can feel bulky and limit space for other décor or dining essentials.
Pros and Cons of Candelabra Candles
Candelabra candles are showstoppers. Their greatest advantage is the elegance they bring to a wedding. I’ve seen entire rooms transform the moment the candelabras were lit. The tall tapers add height, sophistication, and a sense of grandeur that lanterns simply can’t replicate. If your goal is to make a bold statement, candelabras will never disappoint.
They also provide excellent light distribution. Unlike lanterns that cast light in a confined area, candelabra candles spread illumination more broadly. This makes them ideal for large dining spaces or grand ballrooms where you want the entire room to feel bathed in candlelight.
However, they do come with challenges. Candelabras are best suited for indoor weddings, as outdoor conditions like wind can quickly extinguish the flames. They also require more safety considerations since the candles are exposed and elevated. Some venues even have restrictions on using open flame tapers, which is something couples should confirm early. Additionally, candelabras tend to feel more formal, which might not match casual or rustic themes as naturally as lanterns do.
Choosing the Right Candle Style for Your Wedding Theme
One of the most common questions I hear from couples is, “Which one is better for my wedding theme?” The answer depends on the story you want your wedding to tell.
For rustic and bohemian weddings, lantern candles are almost always my first recommendation. Their charm fits perfectly with wooden textures, natural greenery, and outdoor venues. Imagine lanterns lining a garden path or hanging from tree branches—it’s simple, romantic, and unforgettable.
For classic and formal weddings, candelabra candles shine the brightest. The tall taper candles on ornate stands create the kind of timeless elegance that suits black-tie affairs or ballroom receptions. Guests instantly recognize the grandeur, and it adds a sense of tradition to the celebration.
For modern and minimalist weddings, the choice can go either way. Sleek, glass-paneled lanterns with clean lines complement contemporary spaces beautifully. At the same time, minimalist gold or silver candelabras with slim white tapers can create a chic, elevated look. It comes down to whether you prefer understated warmth or striking elegance.
And for outdoor vs. indoor weddings, lanterns are typically safer outdoors due to their protective casing, while candelabras are better reserved for controlled indoor settings. That doesn’t mean you can’t mix them—sometimes, I use lanterns for the ceremony and candelabras for the reception, giving couples the best of both worlds.
Cost Comparison: Lanterns vs. Candelabras
Budget is always part of the conversation, and candles are no exception. Lantern candles are generally more affordable, especially since they can be rented in sets or purchased at reasonable prices. They’re also easier for DIY décor, which can save couples money if they’re open to styling them on their own.
Candelabras, on the other hand, are usually more expensive. They are often made of heavier materials like brass, crystal, or wrought iron, and because they serve as focal pieces, their rental costs can add up quickly. In addition, the taper candles themselves may need frequent replacements if you’re planning a long event.
That being said, I always encourage couples to look at value rather than just cost. Lanterns may be less expensive, but they often require additional décor elements like flowers or greenery to make a strong statement. Candelabras may cost more upfront, but they often stand beautifully on their own with very little added.
Practical Considerations for Couples
When choosing between lantern candles and candelabra candles, it’s not just about looks—it’s also about logistics. As a wedding decorator, I always remind couples that practicality plays a huge role in the success of their décor.
Safety is the first concern. Many venues have strict rules about open flames, especially with elevated candles like those on candelabras. In some cases, you may need to use LED taper candles instead of real ones. Lanterns, on the other hand, are often easier to get approved since their glass casing contains the flame, making them safer in windy or crowded settings.
Another factor is ease of setup. Lanterns are relatively simple to move around and arrange, whether you’re lining an aisle or clustering them on reception tables. Candelabras, however, are heavier and require careful balancing, which makes professional setup highly recommended.
Then there’s the type of candle itself. Real wax candles give off a soft, natural glow and even a gentle scent, but they need monitoring throughout the evening. LED candles, whether in lanterns or candelabras, eliminate the worry of melted wax and open flames. I often suggest a mix—real candles for impact where safe, and LED versions for practicality where needed.
Styling Tips from a Wedding Decorator
Styling lanterns and candelabras is one of my favorite parts of the job because they can be used creatively in so many ways. With lanterns, I often recommend layering. For example, cluster lanterns of different heights in a corner of the reception space, surround them with lush greenery, and you instantly create a cozy focal point. They also work beautifully along staircases, entryways, or outdoor walkways, guiding guests with a soft, romantic glow.
Candelabras demand a different approach. Because they’re tall and dramatic, they naturally become centerpieces. I like pairing them with cascading floral arrangements or keeping them minimal with just the candles to let their elegance shine. On long banquet tables, repeating candelabras down the center creates symmetry and grandeur that makes the entire room feel magical.
One of the most underrated styling choices is mixing both lanterns and candelabras. I’ve done weddings where lanterns lit the ceremony aisle while candelabras dominated the reception tables. This combination balances intimacy and grandeur, giving couples the best of both worlds. The key is to keep the color palette and materials consistent, so the look feels cohesive rather than mismatched.
Real Wedding Examples and Inspirations
I still remember a rustic vineyard wedding where lanterns played the leading role. We lined the grapevine pathway with wooden lanterns holding ivory candles, added sprigs of lavender, and the effect was breathtaking. Guests described the walk to the ceremony as enchanting, like stepping into another world.
On the other hand, I once styled a ballroom wedding where candelabras took center stage. Tall silver candelabras with white taper candles ran the length of the banquet tables, paired with crystal glassware and white roses. The result was pure sophistication, and guests couldn’t stop taking photos. It felt like something straight out of a classic romance film.
Some of my favorite designs, however, come from blending the two. At a garden wedding, we placed lanterns along the ceremony aisle, guiding guests toward the altar. Inside the reception tent, elegant gold candelabras lit up the tables. This transition gave the celebration depth—first cozy and inviting, then bold and grand.
DIY vs. Professional Styling
If you’re considering lanterns, DIY can be a wonderful option. Lanterns are relatively easy to source, and arranging them doesn’t require much technical expertise. Many couples buy or rent lanterns in bulk and then decorate them with their own flowers or ribbons. It’s a cost-effective way to add charm without stretching the budget.
Candelabras, however, often benefit from professional styling. Because they’re taller and heavier, they need to be secured properly to avoid accidents. The symmetry they bring to a space is also something a professional eye can perfect. I’ve found that couples who invest in candelabra styling feel it’s worth every penny because the impact is unmatched.
Of course, you don’t have to choose one path exclusively. Some couples handle lantern arrangements on their own while leaving the more complex candelabra installations to professionals. The key is knowing your strengths and deciding where your energy is best spent during wedding planning.
Sustainability and Reusability
More couples today are looking for eco-friendly wedding options, and candles can absolutely be part of that conversation. Lanterns are often reusable long after the wedding day. I’ve seen couples repurpose them as home décor, garden accents, or even holiday decorations. Renting lanterns is also a sustainable option since they can be used across multiple weddings.
Candelabras, too, can be rented or borrowed. Their durability means they’re designed to last for years, making them an eco-conscious choice when sourced from rental companies. Even the taper candles themselves can be swapped for reusable LED versions, which cut down on waste while still providing the same elegant glow.
Choosing candles thoughtfully not only helps the environment but also gives couples lasting keepsakes that remind them of their special day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I mix lanterns and candelabras at one wedding?
Absolutely. In fact, mixing the two often creates the most dynamic designs. The key is balance—lanterns for warmth and intimacy, candelabras for height and drama.
Which is safer for outdoor weddings?
Lanterns are generally safer outdoors because the glass casing protects the flame. Candelabras are best kept indoors unless you’re using LED candles.
Are LED candles acceptable in candelabras or lanterns?
Yes, and they’re often a practical solution. Modern LED candles look incredibly realistic and are especially useful in venues with strict no-flame policies.
Do candelabras always have to feel formal?
Not necessarily. The style of the candelabra makes a difference. A rustic iron candelabra feels very different from a crystal one, so you can choose a design that suits your theme.
Conclusion
In my years as a wedding decorator, I’ve seen how the choice between lantern candles and candelabra candles can completely shape the mood of a wedding. Lanterns bring warmth, intimacy, and versatility, while candelabras create elegance, height, and timeless drama.
The right choice isn’t about which one is better—it’s about which one tells your love story best. If your vision leans toward cozy romance, lanterns may be your perfect fit. If you dream of grandeur and sophistication, candelabras will deliver. And if you want a layered experience, blending both can give your wedding depth and variety.
Whatever you choose, remember that candlelight is more than décor. It’s a symbol of love, unity, and the glow of your future together. As you plan your big day, let the light of your candles set the mood for memories that will last a lifetime.