DIY Ombre Dipped Taper Candle Centerpieces

We can't get enough of candlelit receptions, and are always looking for new creative spins on classic wedding decorations - so imagine our delight when we discovered candle dipping! Using only a few supplies, we were able to create gorgeous centerpiece decorations that would be perfect for a spring wedding, or could be altered slightly to work for any wedding theme. 

Spend an afternoon dipping candles in colored wax with our step-by-step instructions below to create a one-of-a-kind look to wow your guests. You may want to gather a few friends or family members to help with this project, but we promise you'll love the results.  When you set up your fabulous reception tables, you'll be so glad you took the time to make these gorgeous decorations.

Supplies:

• Assorted Taper Candles
• Wax Beads or Flakes (We used Natural Soy 444 Wax from Amazon)
• Crayons
• Crock Pot
• Mason Jars
• Wooden Spoons or Wooden Craft Sticks
• Water

Instructions:

Set up and plug in your crock pot. We turned ours on High. Place several mason jars inside your crock pot, each firmly sitting upright. 

Add wax to each mason jar, filling to the top, but not overflowing. 

Add water to the crock pot. You will want to add as much water as you can without spilling into the jars or over the sides of the crock pot. The more water you have, the faster your wax will melt. Tip: The reason we do this after adding the wax is that you do not want your jars just floating around in the water - and the wax adds the weight you need to keep them anchored.

As the wax melts, you will need to add more until you have enough melted wax to fill the jars almost all the way to the top - leave about an inch to an inch and a half at the top to avoid overflowing when the tapers are dipped. We ended up using about a pound of wax per color, but it will vary based on the number of candles dipped, as you may need to replenish the wax in the jars if you dip quite a few. 

While you are waiting on the wax to melt - which could take a while depending on the type of wax you choose and the amount you are melting - you will need to get your crayons ready. 

Shave about 1/2 to 3/4 of each crayon to add to each jar of wax. Shaving the crayons instead of chopping them cuts down on the melting time. We recommend using individual sheets of wax paper for each color to avoid making a mess. Lay down a sheet of wax paper and make small shavings with a paring knife.

When you are done, lift the wax paper with the crayon shavings inside and use the wax paper to pour the crayon pieces into each jar.

Stir each jar to ensure all wax is melted and the crayon is evenly mixed throughout. 

At this point, dip a test taper candle in each jar to ensure the color is what you wanted. If it is not as bright as you want, adjust by adding more crayon. If you want to change the hue, add a different color to balance it out. Keep in mind that if you are wanting an ombre effect, you will want a lighter result. That way, when dipped multiple times the color will intensify.

Once you are satisfied with the color, remove the jars from the crock pot and place on a heat-resistant surface. The jars will be hot, so we suggest using a towel or oven mitts when moving them. (The reason for this is that when the wax is so hot, it does not adhere well to the candles - it is best to let it cool a little bit.)

Leave the crock pot on with the water inside in case your wax begins to harden. If the wax begins to harden, place the jar back inside the crock pot until it is fully melted again.

Slowly dip your candles. 

For an ombre look, lower the candle as deep in the wax as possible (you may need to tilt the jar on an angle to dip it deeper, but do this cautiously) and hold for 5-10 seconds before removing. 

Hold the candle out of the wax for 10-20 seconds to allow the colored wax to set. The wax may drip from the bottom of the candle a bit, so make sure to hold it over the jar. 

Dip the candle into the jar again, but do not dip as deep as the first time. Stop about a half inch to an inch below the last dip line. Hold in the wax for 5-10 seconds and then remove for about 10-20 seconds before dipping again. 

Repeat these steps, dipping less of the candle each time until you achieve the desired look. 

Hold for about a minute to allow the colored wax more time to set. 

While the wax is pliable, use your fingers to remove some wax from the base (about an inch at the bottom of the taper candle) so that the candle will fit into the holders you plan to use. It is easy to remove some of the wax in this area at this point and once removed, you can smooth out the wax remaining with your fingers.

Set down to cool. Tip: Use a baking dish with a raised edge. Set the base down in the pan, and prop the top on the edge of the dish so that your candles are not drying on a flat surface.

Repeat with each candle in the color assortment of your choice.

After you are finished, turn off and empty your crock pot.

Once cooled, store the candles - individually wrapped in plastic wrap - in a cool, dry place away from any heat sources until you are ready to use them.

Tip: With the unused wax, you could make small individual candles by placing a wick in a small jar, adding wax mixed with a few drops of essential oils, and allow to cool fully. Package these as gifts for your bridesmaids or to be handed out as favors at your bridal shower.  

We hope you enjoy making these beautiful ombre dipped taper candles as much as we did!

Spring Wedding Flowers

Congratulations Spring bride!  You get to be married during one of the most beautiful times of year; springtime.  A time of rebirth and renewal.  Lucky for you, the Spring season brings with it some of the most beautiful types of flowers for your wedding day.  By sticking with blooms that are found during the Spring season, you can save cost and have fresh flowers at your wedding without breaking the bank on out-of-season blooms.  The flowers that bloom during the Spring season will greatly depend on your location.  This handy flower guide shows common Spring blooming flowers typically seen in the Northern Hemisphere.  When choosing your flowers for your Spring wedding, an easy way to create a cohesive look is the carry your flower choice throughout your wedding decor into your bridal bouquets and table centerpieces. Don't be afraid to mix and match your spring flowers to create the perfect arrangement.  Blooms like Ranunculus and Wax Flower make great filler flowers and look beautiful when paired with complementing stems like roses or peonies.

Image Credits: Feverfew bouquet, Tulips, Daisies, Peonies, Lilacs, Anemones, Daffodils, Wax Flower, Ranunculus, Orchids, Forget me nots

A Carefree Bicycle Wedding Inspiration Board

With spring having just arrived, I can’t help but think about pulling my old bicycle out of storage and going for a long relaxing bike ride.  Listening to the birds sing and feeling the cool, crisp spring air would be a welcome change in pace!  Today, we are bringing you an inspiration board full of charming ideas for incorporating bicycles into your wedding day.  If you and your special someone love to hop on a tandem bicycle and enjoy some time together, using bicycle accents in your ceremony and reception may be a fun way to bring some personality to your wedding.  

You will surely evoke fond memories of bike riding for young and old alike by adding a bicycle design to napkins, invitations, or even custom gift bags for your guests.  There are many little touches that will bring a smile to your guests’ faces.  Bicycle bell favors with a custom sticker make for a perfect keepsake.  Try decorating with various styles of miniature bicycles with flowers woven through the handlebars or wheels.  Any of these ideas will make for a nostalgic and carefree atmosphere at your spring or summer wedding!

Image Credits:  Couples on Bicycles(Sources Unknown), Bicycle with Rings, Custom Printed Bicycle Gift Bags, Invitation, Bicycle Belt, Bell Favors, Bicycle Wheel, Programs, Cake Topper, Bags, Miniature Bicycle Decoration, Bicycle Arch, Just Married 

Wedding Reception Tropical Centerpiece Ideas

We are a little obsessed with the latest terrarium trend creeping up in wedding reception decorations.  They have a sort of urban jungle feel that is particularly great for destination weddings and tropical themed centerpieces (especially when styled with bamboo leaves and vibrant florals). 

Inspired by this latest trend, we've put together a few of our favorite tropical centerpiece ideas to spark some inspiration for your own wedding decor.  From vibrant florals and coral to leafy tropical scapes, we hope you will be just as inspired we are!

Photo Credits: Pincushion proteas and succulents, Cupcake tower, Starfish in sand, Coral and hydrangeas, Bird of paradise, Terrarium, Terrarium table setting, Orchids in vases, Sand in vases, Apricot place card, Ceviche in seashell, Bird of paradise and bamboo, Starfish and coral, Bird of paradise in blue gel vase, Calla lilies and grass, Hand fan, Bamboo and roses

Sundresses and Sandals - A Bright and Cheery Wedding Color Story

With the winter well underway, we are ready for bright and cheery spring and summer weddings!  Check out this lemon, tangerine, and sangria inspiration board.  With the bright yellows, oranges, and pinks you will be sure to love the exciting photos we have collected with warm and sunny days in mind.  The fun and cheerful wedding ideas featured here have us daydreaming of sundresses, sandals, and flowers in our hair.

As shown in the inspiration board, there are many great ways to bring color into your wedding.  One of our favorites is the use of bright blooms in so many different ways.  We love colorful flowers in different types and sizes mixed and matched for a stunning look.  Depending on your location, you may even be able to grow or pick wildflowers in every shade imaginable.  Have your florist, or a friend with a green thumb, give you some recommend some great types of flowers for your wedding.

Image Credits: Lemon Centerpiece, Bright Bouquet, Cake, Mason Jar Drinks, Umbrellas, Flag and Flower Centerpiece, Handkerchief, Bright Flower Centerpiece, Yellow Shoes, Macaroons, Reception Table, Bride’s Bouquet 

How to Make Photo Centerpieces with Candles

Inspired from the DIY master Martha Stewart, we had to try these super cute do it yourself photo centerpieces for ourselves (with our own wedding twist of course).  Read on to learn how to make these glowing photo masterpieces.  So simple and inexpensive, one centerpiece cost us just around $4.  View Martha's original tutorial here.

We think these lantern centerpieces are particularly great because they are easy to make and are great conversation starters.  They work for any type of setting from wedding receptions and rehearsal dinners to anniversary parties and birthdays.

With just a home printer and a few household items, you can create this stunning focal point for your wedding and truly let your own personality shine through. (pun intended.  heehee)

What you'll need:

3-4 same size picture frames (makes one centerpiece)

Translucent vellum paper in white or ecru (or 24lb paper stock substitute)

A few of your favorite photos

Home printer

Glass enclosed votive candles (or LED substitute)

Cloth Tape

Scissors
Windex

Step 1 - Get all your supplies ready for assembly.  We recommend grabbing a few friends to help and create a bit of an assembly line.  Begin to disassemble your frames, removing and discarding the backing completely.  Keep the front of your frames and the glass inserts.  Paint or stain the fronts of your frames if desired letting them dry completely.

Step 2 - With photo editing software like Photoshop or PhotoFiltre, convert your photos to black and white or sepia.   Resize your photos to fit the frames you've purchased.  Print your photos onto the vellum paper you purchased.

Step 3 - Cut out all your photos trimming and discarding the excess vellum paper.  Set aside your cut-out photos to be inserted into your frames.

Step 4 - After cleaning your glass inserts with Windex, place the glass back into your frames.  Once dry, insert your photos into your frames face down.  Keeping the glass fronts in your frames will help protect your photos and make your centerpieces a bit sturdier.  Fold your picture frame tabs in place to hold your picture.  If your frame does not have tabs, simply add some tape to the edges of your photo to hold it in place.

Step 5 - Line up each of your frames side by side making sure they fit snugly together.  Place a line of cloth tape down the seam where your frames meet and press firmly on the tape to secure.  Continue repeating this until you come to the last frame.  Place a strip of tape so that half of the tape hangs of the edge of your frame.  Stand your frame upright and connect your exposed sides together to finish off your centerpiece.  Place your photo centerpieces around a glass enclosed votive candle to ensure your lantern does not catch fire.  You can also substitute your candle for an LED votive for added fire safety.

We created cube shaped centerpieces by using four 5 x 7 frames.  You can also opt for triangle shaped centerpieces by using three frames instead of four.  For added visual interest, choose frames that are different heights.  Make one centerpiece using 5 x 7 inch frames and another using 4 x 6 inch frames.  Set each completed centerpiece next to each other and surround with additional votive candles and flowers for a show stopping wedding table setting.

Wedding Reception Centerpieces and Ideas to Fit Your Style

Whether your wedding style is classic chic, hopelessly romantic, or uber modern, we've put together some of our favorite wedding reception centerpiece ideas to fit your individual taste.  When it comes to your table displays, take your time deciding on the perfect arrangement(s). Your wedding centerpieces will help set the overall tone of your event and help give that important first impression.  After all, it's every bride's mission to have their guests ooh and ahh over the gorgeous wedding details they've spent countless months planning and preparing.  Your wedding centerpieces will go a long way in making this vision become a reality.

#1) The Romantic Bride - For romantic brides, it's all in the details.  Create an elegant, breathtaking display of flowers that will lend to your romantic nature.  Romantic centerpieces can be simple or elaborate...monochromatic or full of color.  Mix in berries, nuts, and even pearls to add texture and visual interest to your displays.  When creating fresh floral arrangements, it is important to take into account the time of year you are getting married and check with your florist to see if those flowers will be readily available.

(photo credits: peonies, tall roses, orange roses, blue flowers)

#2) The Rustic Bride - For those with a country or woodland aesthetic, give your centerpieces a rustic touch to lend to your earthy style.  Wooden details, natural accents, and earthy color schemes are ideal for rustic looks.  Consider items like simple mason jars filled with wildflowers  and bare tree branches placed lengthwise across each table or placed in tall cylinders.  Wooden planter boxes and potted herbs do double duty as wedding favors.  Just let guests know to take one with them when they head home either through word of mouth or by placing a cute sign on each table.

(photo credits: mason jars, bare branches, window planter boxes, potted herb tutorial)

#3) The Modern Bride - Like clean lines and monochromatic schemes?  A modern, simple, or eclectic look may be perfect for you.  To pull off modern centerpieces, simple is usually better.  Clean lines and fresh color schemes like pure white with pops of bold color are ideal.  For modern styling, don't be afraid to play with shapes.  Square vases, tall cylinders, and opaque ceramic holders work great for holding your arrangements.  Simple centerpiece arrangements are also the perfect opportunity to get away with bold and/or patterned tablecloths so one does not fight against the other.

(photo credits: terrarium, daffodils, assorted cylinders, bare branches)

#4) The Classic Bride - Who doesn't love the classic look of candlelight glow.  For more traditional brides, you can't go wrong with the classic styling of candle centerpieces.  To add visual interest and dimension, consider adding candles of varying height to your tables, smaller votives filled with monochromatic flower buds, and/or flower petals to your table.  For a touch of sparkle, place candles in glass candlesticks or hang a sparkling chandelier above your tables.  Don't be afraid to mix candle wedding centerpieces in with any of the other wedding styles too.  To split up an event visually, consider mixing taller floral arrangements with shorter candle arrangements.

(photo credits: votives, candelabra, pillar candles)

Creative Centerpiece Trends for 2012

As the focal point of each reception table as well as the overall look of the room, a bride wants to put a lot of thought into her wedding reception centerpieces.  Of course, one can never go wrong with fragrant floral arrangements, but a bride these days has no reason to limit herself to bouquets and topiaries made of flowers and greenery. There are many options for creating stunning displays that are often less expensive and more memorable than your standard arrangement of blooms. The lovely candle display shown here from Real Simple is only one alternative. Here are our favorite non-floral centerpiece ideas for 2012.

Edible Elements 

Image Credits: Strawberry Topiary from The Bride Suite, Veggie Bouquet from The Hostess Blog,
Doughnut Tier from Martha Stewart

Dessert buffets and other food stations were a favorite for 2011. This year, scale it down and bring the banquet to your guests' tables. From mini wedding cakes on each table to tiers of donuts and macaroons, your guests certainly won't mind having their lovely desserts right at their fingertips. You can also offer healthier options like bouquets of veggies or fruit with decorative dishes full of sweet and savory dips. The center of the table is the perfect place to display these colorful treats. The best part? The centerpieces double as part of the menu, which can save you quite a bit of money if you plan it right.

Balloon Brandishing 

Image Credits: White Dessert Table from Once Wed, Balloon Table Number from Martha Stewart,
Pastel Balloons from Martha Stewart, Balloon Room from Green Wedding Shoes

Yes, normally balloons are meant for birthday parties but the lovely, oversized helium variety can actually look quite elegant and romantic, floating like a physical manifestation of the weightless joy a bride feels on her wedding day. These large round balloons can create the same whimsical look as hanging lanterns without the worry over how to hang them as they literally suspend themselves. And as a famous little yellow bear is noted for saying, "Nobody can be uncheered with a balloon."


Paper Presentations 

Image Credits: Book Display from Once Wed, Pinwheels from Emmaline Wed,
Paper Spheres from Better Homes and Gardens

Paper is relatively inexpensive, can be recycled, and can also be upcycled from what you already own to create fabulous DIY centerpieces. Paper flowers and origami spheres make lovely arrangements that guests can keep forever, unlike real flowers. Whimsical pinwheels put a cheerful spin on any table display, while upcycled books and pages can show off your intellectual side in a playful and romantic way.

Still struggling to come up with the perfect centerpiece? Make a list of your hobbies and interests, either individually or as a couple, and find a way to showcase them on each table. You may be surprised how simple is it is to come up with something wonderful and unique when you are drawing ideas from your true passions and interests.

Great Ideas for Inexpensive Wedding Centerpieces

Choosing wedding centerpieces for your wedding can be an expensive undertaking, but it doesn’t have to be that way. We have come up with several fun and inexpensive wedding centerpiece ideas.

Bring the outside in: Using tree branches, leaves, pinecones and other natural elements from the outdoors doesn’t cost a thing and can be some of the most beautiful centerpieces. By adding limbs from a Japanese maple tree to a large glass vase you can create a breath taking fall wedding centerpiece design. Think seasonal of course when you are planning to use Mother Nature’s decorations. If you are having a spring wedding, cherry blossoms, summer wedding use olive branches or winter wedding, use birch. Remember you can also add spray paint, beads and lights to jazz up any centerpiece design.

Double Duty:  Another way to save money on your wedding centerpieces is to use them for more than one purpose. One way to do this is incorporating your desert table into your centerpieces. You can buy several inexpensive cupcake holders and bake your own cupcakes. By adding decorative cupcake liners and little bling you can create great cupcakes without paying a professional. Fill the holders with your cupcakes and set one on each table as the centerpiece. This will create a fun and yummy centerpiece that your guests are sure to love.

Less is more: Sometimes the simple things in life can be the most beautiful. If you are having a winter wedding try filling up vases with inexpensive Christmas tree bulbs. This makes a gorgeous center piece and can be very cost effective.  Another fabulous idea is to use taper candles. You can normally buy tapers very cheap and in many color combinations. Check out your local thrift stores and buy different size and color holders to make an eclectic and interesting centerpiece.

Fruit instead of flowers: Fruit can also be a great centerpiece idea. By simple filling a glass vase with lemons you can create a masterpiece. This works for all seasons as well, use apples and pears for the fall, cranberries for winter and lemon, limes and oranges are perfect for summer and spring weddings. The wonderful thing about using fruit is the color palate you can create. Also, get creative, add candles or lights. Let your imagination work for you.

The most important tip is, do your homework and shop around to find what inspires you before you start planning your centerpieces.  Going in prepared will also save you money and time. Good Luck!

Image Credits: Maple tree, taper candle and citrus centerpiece from marthastewartweddings.com.  Cupcake centerpiece from http://dulcedesignscandy.com/.

Mason Jar Masterpieces

The simple elegance of a mason jar is not always recognized, but with a little time and a creative touch, you can turn a basic jar into a classy decoration for your wedding. Whether your reception is a summer soiree or a winter wonderland, you will surely be inspired by the gorgeous ideas in this blog.
With so many uses, where should we start? Pair a floating candle with lace or twine for a rustic, romantic feel. A cluster of different sized jars with only a small tea light can replace flower centerpieces and help light your reception venue. These dreamy decorations will make any girl swoon, and remind her of the enchanting wedding she has always dreamed of.

Another cute and practical idea is to use the mason jars as glasses to hold your guests’ choice of drink at the reception. Take this a step further and apply chalkboard contact paper to the jars. You can write the names of your guests and even their table number to direct them to their seats.

As you can see, mason jars can be used for aisle decorations, lighting, drinking glasses, and even place cards. So what are you waiting for? Head over to a local store in the canning section and decorate your heart out! If your wedding is too far away to wait, consider featuring these striking DIY projects at your holiday party.

Image Credits: Floating Tealight Mason Jars,  Candlelight Mason Jar Lighting, Chalkboard Contact Sheets on Mason Jars, Simple Centerpiece, Mason Jar Lemonade, Pink and White Flowers in Hanging Jar, Aisle Decorations, Red and White Centerpiece, Mason Jars with Favor Tags