Candle Etiquette at a Wedding

Unity candles and decorative candles are often used at weddings to create a comfortable atmosphere.

Consider the proper etiquette and safety concerns involved with open flames before choosing to include candles in a wedding ceremony or celebration. Choose safety over ambiance to guarantee a safe ceremony and celebration.

Unity Candle in Church Ceremonies

If you desire to have a unity candle lighting during your ceremony, ensure the church and the minister approve. Some churches forbid the unity candle; as an alternative, choose to perform it at the reception.

Unity Candle Safety

Depending on how long the unity candle will be burning, place an acceptable but inexpensive cloth to catch dripping wax. Have the bride's attendant keep all fabrics, especially the veil, away from flames.

Candles at Reception Tables

Ensure that flames do not block lines of sight for guests. For optimal use of candlelit ambiance, light candles after appetizers, burn them through dinner, and extinguish them once dancing has begun. Many venues have strict rules on use of candles.

Candles for Decoration

Assign someone to monitor decorative candles. Prevent any incidents by keeping open flames several feet away from hanging fabrics, from other decorations, or from guests reaching over them.

Candles as Favors

If candles are guest favors, do not provide matches for guests. Appoint someone, such as your wedding planner, to ensure that no guest lights the candles as they may create potential fire hazards for which you'll be liable.

References

• Candle Etiquette
• Unity Candle Tradition