Things I Heart: Candlelight

"Side by side with your loved one

You will find enchantment here

The night will weave its magic spell

When the one you love is near, oh

This is the night

And the heavens all rise

On this lovely bella notte"

(source)

Lady and the Tramp is one of my all-time favorite Disney films. This adorable scene is the source of: A) my fondness for dogs, B) my appetite for spaghetti and meatballs (I still consider it a romantic meal for two), and C) my love for romantic candlelight.

While I'm unsure about having flowers for our reception due to budget restrictions, I do know that I want candles. Lots and LOTS of candles.

(source)

(source)

(source)

(source)

I love the soft, romantic glow they create in a room. It just makes you want to snuggle up to the person next to you with a blissful little sigh. And, centerpieces are easily DiYable as evidenced from the success of Bees like Mrs. Lemon, and Hive member futuremrsherdt.

Pros for a candlelit wedding:

• Cost. Candles are far less expensive than their floral counterparts, and I have the option of re-selling the holders (because let's face it, when am I ever going to need this many candles again?).
• Ambiance. Shimmery candles transform a room by giving it a warm glow with a smidge of dramatic flair.
• Variety. Many options are available for shape (pillars, tapers, floating, votives) and they come in a wide array of colors.

Things to chew over:

(source)

• Placement. I would love to have candles lining the aisle during the ceremony like the wedding above. However, Mr. Tartlet pointed out that having them so close to the edge of someone's seat could spell disaster. Fire extinguisher to Row 2, fire extinguisher to Row 2. Grandma's sleeve is on fire.
• Burn time. Decor disappearing before the reception ends would be rather sad. I've heard that soy candles give you the best bang for your buck, but regardless have come across mixed reviews for how long floating candles actually last. The way our wedding will be set up, all decor has to be in place prior to the ceremony starting--that means the candles need to last six hours. Is this even possible?
• Labor. Candles don't light themselves (INCENDIO!...well, it was worth a shot). Who is going to be responsible for setting all of these ablaze? With the quantity I'm thinking of, I would need a team of candle lighters.

Are you considering alternatives to flowers to cut costs for your centerpieces?