5 Unique Ways to Display Your Candles

• Posted on 30 September 2025
• 0

Candles are more than just a source of light, they’re design elements that transform any space with warmth, texture, and personality. Whether you’re drawn to the soft glow of traditional wax candles, the long-lasting charm of oil candles, or the safe convenience of battery-operated options, how you display them makes all the difference.

A thoughtful candle arrangement can turn a simple flame into a captivating centrepiece, a conversation starter, or even a work of art.

If you’re ready to go beyond the standard “candle on a table” look, here are five creative ways to style your candles that will instantly elevate your home décor.

1. Layered Candle Trays for Effortless Elegance

A candle tray is one of the simplest yet most versatile ways to display candles. By grouping candles of different heights, shapes, and textures on a tray, you create a layered effect that feels intentional and elevated. The tray also helps keep things tidy, preventing wax drips from reaching your furniture.

Why it works:

• Trays provide structure, making even an eclectic candle collection look curated.
• The layered look adds depth and dimension to flat surfaces like coffee tables or buffets.
• They can easily be moved from room to room depending on your mood or the occasion.

Styling tips for trays:

• Mix pillar candles, votives, and tealights for variation.
• Add natural accents like pinecones, seashells, or dried flowers to reflect the season.
• Use mirrored or metallic trays to amplify candlelight and create a glowing effect.

A pro tip: Keep tray arrangements odd-numbered (3, 5, 7 candles) for the most visually pleasing balance.

2. Candle Lanterns for Indoor-Outdoor Ambiance

Lanterns are a timeless way to showcase candles while adding a touch of rustic charm or modern minimalism, depending on the style you choose. They’re especially useful if you want to enjoy candlelight outdoors without worrying about wind. Lanterns are also a great choice if you prefer battery-operated candles—you get all the glow with zero worry about open flames.

Why it works:

• Protects flames from drafts, making them practical for patios, balconies, and porches.
• Works equally well indoors as cozy décor on mantels, entryways, or staircases.
• Lanterns come in endless styles—industrial, bohemian, coastal, or farmhouse—so they blend with any décor theme.

Styling ideas with lanterns:

• Cluster three lanterns of varying heights by a fireplace for a dramatic, no-wood alternative.
• Line them along a front walkway to create a welcoming glow for guests.
• Hang small lanterns from hooks or tree branches during garden parties for fairytale lighting.

3. Unexpected Glass Vessels for Modern Minimalism

Instead of traditional holders, try displaying candles in unexpected glass containers. Think clear glass jars and tall vases. The transparent walls magnify the glow while giving your candles a modern, museum-like presentation.

Why it works:

• Glass creates a clean, minimalist look that fits contemporary interiors.
• Containment reduces mess, keeping melted wax from spreading.
• The transparency lets you highlight decorative candle details like pressed flowers or unique textures.

Creative glass display ideas:

• Place a cluster of small tealights inside a tall cloche for a dramatic spotlight effect.
• Fill the base of a glass vase with decorative stones, sand, or seasonal accents, then place a candle on top.
• Use multiple hurricane vases of different heights as a centerpiece, each holding a single large candle.

This approach not only looks sleek but also allows you to switch out fillers (shells in summer, pine branches in winter) for year-round versatility.

4. Candle Rings for Elevated Style & Texture

Candle rings add instant charm and sophistication to any candle, transforming simple pillars or votives into eye-catching décor. Designed to look freshly gathered, these lifelike arrangements bring natural beauty without the upkeep—just nestle them around your candle for lush texture, vibrant color, or seasonal flair that lasts.

Why it works:

• Instant Focal Point: The floral ring draws the eye upward, making even basic candles feel like a designed centerpiece.

• Perfect for tabletops, mantels, or entryways where you want a polished yet cozy look.

• Light Play: Delicate petals and leaves cast beautiful shadows when candlelight flickers through them.

Ways to style candle rings:

• Dining Table Drama: Place an artificial floral ring around a chunky pillar candle for instant height and impact.

• Swap rings seasonally—ivy for spring, wheat sheaves and berry sprigs for fall and winter

• Slide seasonal picks (berries, tiny ornaments, dried citrus) into existing rings

• Candle rings are especially striking when mixed with other natural elements—think wood slices, dried flowers, or stone holders—for a look that’s curated but effortless.

5. Pedestal Candle Holder Sets for Dramatic Impact

Why limit candles to low surfaces or clusters? Pedestal candle holders elevate your candles, literally and visually, creating striking focal points in any room. They combine functional lighting with sculptural décor, turning simple candles into statement pieces.

Why it works:

• Raises candles above tables or floors, instantly adding drama and presence.
• Draws the eye upward, creating a sense of height and elegance in your space.
• Works with both symmetrical arrangements for a formal look or varied heights for a more eclectic style.

Ideas for styling pedestal candle holders:

• Place a tall pedestal with a single large pillar candle in an entryway for a bold statement.
• Group multiple pedestal holders of different heights on a dining table, console, or fireplace hearth for layered visual interest.
• Use ornate or rustic designs—like weathered metal or wickerweave—to complement your décor style and add texture.
• Combine with greenery, seasonal décor, or decorative trays at the base for a curated, polished look.

Final Thoughts

The secret to a stunning candle display is pairing your candle type with your lifestyle. If you enjoy refreshing your décor with the seasons, glass vessels and trays offer the versatility to switch things up effortlessly. For those who entertain outdoors, lanterns and oil candles provide long-lasting ambiance that’s both practical and beautiful. And for homes where safety is a priority, battery-operated candles let you create style and glow without worry.

Ultimately, candles are more than just sources of light—they’re a way to frame your space and set the mood. With a little creativity, your arrangements can become statement pieces that reflect your personality, enhance your décor, and fill your home with warmth and inviting charm. 

At The Last Straw, you’ll find a carefully curated selection of candles and candle accessories to help you create these perfect displays in your own home.