How to Plan a Candlelight Wedding Ceremony

by Cyndi Bass

Share wedding vows in an ambiance of romance and love surrounded by soft, flickering candle flames. Consider the time of year and the venue for the ceremony when planning a candlelight wedding. Careful planning and preparation are critical to making the candles a seamless and safe part of the bride and groom's special day.

Step 1

Search for a venue that allows a candlelight wedding. Most churches make provisions for candlelight. The facility may have certain rules on how you must conduct the ceremony. Ask the venue if they limit the number of candles or enforce other requirements.

Step 2

Find out what the local fire ordinances are, such as permits and important safety factors.

Step 3

Draw a floor plan of the venue and determine where you will place candles. Candles should be in areas where they won't distract guests or create a fire hazard. Limit the number of candles so the room remains dim and romantic.

Step 4

Determine who will light the candles. Possibilities include the best man and maid of honor, the entire wedding party or people special to the bride and groom, such as parents or grandparents.

Step 5

Rehearse the lighting of the candles several times, so everyone is prepared and to determine how much time is required. Rehearse at least once at the same time of day as the wedding to determine how much light the candles provide. Add or remove candles as necessary.

Tips

  • Light candles after all the guests are sitting.

    Older children can light candles.

    Use unscented candles as a courtesy to guests with allergies.

    Use dripless candles.

    Enhance the atmosphere by hanging white Christmas lights around windows and archways.

    Tell the photographer that you will be having a candlelight wedding so they can adjust their equipment accordingly.

    Place several large candles around the couple so guests can see them share their vows.

    Place taper or tealight candles in candelabras throughout the room and at the entrance. Place smaller candles on tables or windowsills.

Warnings

  • Place large, chunky candles on a plate or stand so melting wax doesn't damage anything.

    Do not place candles near flammable fabrics and materials or where someone can knock them over.

Photo Credits

About the Author

Cyndi Bass has been writing professionally since 2000. She specializes in writing about self-help, weight loss, health, credit, families, parenting and government assistance programs. Her experience includes ghostwriting for numerous websites, blogs and newsletters. She has worked in social services in the credit industry and she holds a human service certificate from the University of California at Davis.