Part Two: Candlelight Centerpieces

Three C’s of Reception Design

There is something so alluring about the glow of candlelight, and the same can be said about its effect on your wedding reception. If Tall Centerpieces add drama, Candlelight Centerpieces add ambiance. With their light and nuance, candlelight centerpieces draw the eye in and around the table. These centerpieces are a must-have for any successful reception, and reflect the heart of your reception style.


I absolutely love candelabras! They are a great way to incorporate additional height (yes they could be classified as Tall Centerpieces- shhh don’t tell the previous blog) and charm. Adding layers can be a fantastic way to add depth. I’m particularly smitten with our new eight-arm candelabra. It’s ideal for a modern looking reception, and our lead designer has already created some pretty cool designs for our upcoming #BelliFioriBrides.

Photos (top to bottom, left to right): Sarah Harvey Photo & Film | Ashley Pieper | Ashley Fisher Photography | Cindy Lee Photo


Is it just me, or are these amaryllis vases such a mood? I can’t get enough of them! The tallest of these vases is 30” tall from base to rim, and is made entirely of glass. They are perfect for any reception design that calls for an elegant and timeless look. Colorful candles add interest and are a bold way to show off your style, while white or ivory candles keep the reception crisp and delicate.

Photos (left to right): Rochelle Maples Photography |Catherine Rhodes Photography | Switzer Film


Let’s talk about long tables for a minute. Candlelight Centerpieces are particularly useful for creating a long table look. The visual weight of a 16-32 foot table is heavy on the overall composition of a reception room; however, creating inviting, warm and delicate long tables helps to lighten the table’s heaviness. Remember that everything about reception design is about guiding the guest throughout the room to create a transcendent experience. We accentuate and highlight the areas where we want people to visually linger (for example the head table, refer to Tall Centerpieces). While other areas are designed to prompt conversation for a unique guest experience. The long table is no exception. We want people to be able to talk with other guests seated two, three or even four seats away from them.

Photos (top to bottom, left to right): Mike Cassimatis | Mike Cassimatis|L Photographie| L Photographie | Ashley Pieper Photography | Mike Cassimatis Photography


To all my dreamy, romantic couples- if you want to transport your guests into a modern day fairytale, consider making lanterns a focal point. Their presence brings warmth, charm, and a touch of rustic elegance. I love incorporating floral elements to really make the overall piece feel magical.

Photos (left to right): Julia Noack Photography | Elizabeth Lloyd Photography


These geometric candlesticks are my personal favorite for infusing classic romance and sophistication into a reception. The candle pairing can have a significant impact on the overall vibe that these centerpieces evoke. A pillar candle is perfect for a minimalist or traditional wedding, whereas the use of a floating candle is buoyant and highlights the timelessness of the candlestick itself. Flowers around the base are essential for a cohesive and opulent table-scape.

Photos (top to bottom, left to right): White Klump Photography | Beautiful Mess Photography | Lauren Muckler Photography | Ashley Fisher Photography


Timeless, regal and delicate- glass halos are ideal for the couple looking for an ethereal wedding reception! It is stunning how these glass cylinders act as prisms of light and reflection. They are modern. They are timeless. They are a vision!

Photos (left to right): Catherine Rhodes Photography | Mike Cassimatis


Finally, for my sparkly queens and kings out there, consider the impact crystal can add to your reception. While not for everyone, these crystal candlesticks are a moment! They give me vintage glam, southern debutante, glamorously classic all reception long! If you want chic, fabulous and stunning, this candlelight centerpiece is calling your name. Watch out Southern Belle, there’s a new queen in town!

Photos (left to right): Mike Cassimatis | Shannon Duggan


Vendor Love

We cannot thank the following vendors enough for their collaboration on the events shown above:

Planners: Cosmopolitan Events | Simcha’s Events | a.companie

Venues: Four Seasons Saint Louis | Ritz Carlton Saint Louis | Union Station Hotel |The Coronado |Marriott St. Louis Grand | Saint Louis Art Museum | Bellerive Country Club|Westwood Country Club| Stifel Theatre | Saint Louis Zoo

Decor: Decorum Events | The Aries Company

Post by Belli Fiori

Belli Fiori - St. Louis Luxury Wedding Florist