Creating Wedding Memorial Candles: A Step-By-Step Guide

A memorial candle is a poignant way to honour a deceased loved one at a wedding. It can be placed on a ceremony or reception table and lit at any point before or during the ceremony. Couples may choose to include a sign listing the names of those they wish to remember, and some couples may also choose to pause during the ceremony to remember those who cannot be with them. Memorial candles can be personalised with photographs, dried flowers, handwritten messages, quotes, and other embellishments. They can also be scented with a fragrance that holds a special significance.

Choosing a candle

Firstly, decide whether you want a real flame candle or an LED candle. Real flame candles add a certain ambiance and warmth to the ceremony, but they require more care and attention, especially if left unattended. LED candles are a safer option and can be just as effective, especially when placed inside a decorative lantern or candle holder.

The size of the candle is also important. If you are placing the candle on a memorial table, a larger candle, such as a pillar candle, can make a beautiful statement. For example, a 3" x 9" candle or an 11" candle would be ideal. If the candle is to be lit during the ceremony, a smaller, taper candle may be easier to handle and less likely to drip.

The colour of the candle is also worth considering. White is a traditional colour for memorial candles, but you could also choose a colour that has some significance to the person being remembered or that complements your wedding colour scheme.

You may also want to consider the scent of the candle, especially if it is to be lit. Unscented candles are a safer choice, but if you choose a scented candle, opt for something subtle and perhaps a fragrance that holds special significance or evokes fond memories of the departed.

Finally, don't forget to think about the candle holder or lantern. This can be a simple, elegant crystal candle holder or something more personalised and decorative, such as a hurricane lantern or a heart-shaped earthenware holder. You could also include a sign alongside the candle, listing the names of those being remembered.

Selecting photos and mementos

Choose Meaningful Photos:

Select photos that evoke cherished memories and capture the personality and special milestones in the life of your departed loved one. Look for images that showcase their passions and interests. For example, if they loved gardening, choose a photo of them in their garden. Consider using both black-and-white and colour photos to add visual interest.

Gather Sentimental Mementos:

In addition to photos, gather small mementos or keepsakes that hold sentimental value. This could include a piece of jewellery they cherished, a favourite trinket, or even handwritten notes or letters. These items will add a personal touch to your memorial candle and help honour the life and legacy of your loved one.

Consider Milestones and Important Dates:

When selecting photos, consider including images that showcase important milestones in your loved one's life. This could be their wedding day, the birth of their children or grandchildren, or even photos from your own wedding if they were a part of it. Additionally, consider including meaningful dates, such as their birth and death dates, on the candle or its holder.

Involve Family and Friends:

If you are struggling to choose photos, consider asking family and friends for their input. They may have photos that you haven't seen before, or they may suggest images that capture your loved one's personality in a way that you hadn't thought of. This collaborative process can also be a way for others to grieve and honour the memory of the departed.

Create a Visually Pleasing Arrangement:

Once you have selected your photos and mementos, consider how you will arrange them on the candle. Aim for a visually pleasing composition by spacing the items evenly and ensuring they are well-balanced. You can play around with different layouts before deciding on the final design.

Remember, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to selecting photos and mementos for a memorial candle. Choose the images and items that best represent your loved one and hold the most meaning for you and your family. This will create a heartfelt tribute that brings comfort and solace during a difficult time.

Preparing your workstation

Before you begin, gather all the necessary materials and lay them out on your covered work surface. This will ensure that you have everything you need within easy reach and will help you avoid making a mess. The materials you'll need include a plain white, preferably unscented candle, as well as decorations such as photos, dried flowers, ribbons, and other meaningful embellishments.

If you plan to use a computer to create or edit your images and text, make sure you have the necessary software and that your designs will fit on your chosen candle size. You may also want to have scissors handy to cut out your designs if necessary.

Once your workstation is prepared and you have all your materials, you can begin the creative process of decorating your memorial candle.

Adding decorations and personal touches

Choose Meaningful Photos and Mementos

Select photos that evoke cherished memories and capture the personality, passions, and milestones of your loved one. You can also gather small mementos or keepsakes, such as a piece of jewellery, a favourite trinket, or handwritten notes, to attach to the candle.

Incorporate Personal Touches

Infuse the candle with details that reflect the unique qualities of your loved one. Consider adding handwritten messages, meaningful quotes, or their favourite symbols. You can also add dried flowers, pressed leaves, or other natural elements for texture and depth.

Customize with Ribbons and Embellishments

Enhance the visual appeal of the candle by adding decorative ribbons, lace, or trims in colours and patterns that complement the overall style. You can also use beads, sequins, or small charms for added visual interest.

Personalise the Candle Holder

Consider personalising the candle holder with the initials, name, or meaningful dates of your loved one. You can use stickers, paint, or engraved tags, or decorate the holder with motifs or designs that reflect their personality and interests.

Add a Meaningful Scent

Optionally, you can add a subtle scent to the candle that holds special significance. Choose a fragrance that evokes fond memories or symbolises their favourite scent, such as floral, herbal, or woody notes. Just be mindful not to overpower the natural aroma of the candle.

Display Meaningful Quotes or Verses

Include a meaningful quote or verse on or near your memorial candle. For example, "Your life was a blessing. Your memory, a treasure. You are loved beyond words and missed beyond measure."

Remember, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to creating a wedding memorial candle. Feel free to get creative and incorporate any personal touches that feel right to you.

Customising with ribbons and charms

Customising a memorial candle for a wedding with ribbons and charms is a thoughtful way to honour a loved one. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Choosing the Right Ribbon

Ribbons are a beautiful way to enhance the aesthetic appeal of your memorial candle. Opt for decorative ribbons, lace, or trims in colours and patterns that complement the overall style and theme of your candle and wedding. For example, if you have chosen a rustic wedding theme, a natural-coloured ribbon with a burlap texture would be a perfect choice. On the other hand, if your wedding has a more elegant or formal theme, consider a luxurious satin or velvet ribbon in a colour that matches your wedding palette. Play around with different widths and textures to create visual interest and dimension.

Adding Charms and Embellishments

In addition to ribbons, you can further customise your memorial candle with small charms, beads, sequins, or other embellishments. These decorative elements not only add visual appeal but can also carry symbolic meaning. For instance, you could select charms that represent your loved one's hobbies, interests, or personality. Perhaps they loved music, so you could add a small charm of a musical note or instrument. Or maybe they were an avid reader, so a book-shaped charm would be fitting. You could even include a small locket with a photo inside, adding a truly personal touch.

Combining Ribbons and Charms

When combining ribbons and charms, consider ways to integrate them seamlessly. For example, you could tie the ribbon in a bow and then attach the charms to the centre of the bow, allowing them to dangle elegantly. Alternatively, you could weave the charms directly into the ribbon, creating a unique pattern or design. If you're feeling creative, you could even try making a ribbon charm bracelet that wraps around the candle, with the charms acting as a focal point.

Placement and Arrangement

When customising your memorial candle, it's important to consider the placement and arrangement of the ribbons and charms. If you're using a single ribbon, wrapping it around the centre of the candle creates a balanced look. For multiple ribbons, you can layer them or space them out for a more dynamic appearance. As for the charms, place them where they will be most visible and have the greatest impact. This could be at the base, near the top, or even hanging from the side of the candle.

Finalising Your Design

Once you've added the ribbons and charms, take a step back and assess your design. Ensure that the overall composition is visually pleasing and that all the elements work together harmoniously. Make any necessary adjustments, then allow your candle to set and dry completely before lighting it. Remember, this candle is a tribute to your loved one, so take your time and put care into its creation.

Frequently asked questions