A coffee table is more than just a surface to rest drinks or magazines; it’s the centrepiece of your living room. It sets the tone for your space, catches the eye of every guest, and reflects your personal style. While books, vases, and trays are common choices, there’s one timeless element that adds both charm and warmth: handmade candles.
Candles bring an undeniable elegance to any coffee table. They combine functionality with aesthetics, offering not only soft illumination but also delightful fragrances that can transform the atmosphere of your home. Styling your table with candles is a creative process, and when done right, it elevates your entire living room.
Here are five unique and stylish ways to incorporate handmade candles into your coffee table décor.
1. Create a Centrepiece with Layered Heights
One of the most visually striking ways to decorate with candles is by using varying heights. Place tall pillar candles next to medium-sized jars and shorter tealights to create a layered effect. This adds depth and dimension, making your table look thoughtfully curated rather than cluttered.
- Use a decorative tray to anchor the arrangement, ensuring everything feels cohesive.
- Mix candle holders of different shapes and materials – glass, ceramic, or metal – to add character.
- Balance the look with other accents like a small stack of books or a vase of fresh flowers.
Handmade candles with unique textures or colored wax can further enhance this layered display. The different levels of light create a cosy, inviting atmosphere, perfect for both everyday lounging and entertaining guests.
2. Pair Candles with Natural Elements
For a warm, earthy vibe, combine your candles with natural elements. Think wooden trays, stone coasters, or bowls of pinecones. The raw textures beautifully contrast with the smooth finish of handmade candles, creating a look that feels organic and grounded.
This style works particularly well with coffee candles, which naturally complement woodsy and rustic décor. The rich, comforting aroma pairs perfectly with the rawness of natural accents, making your living room smell as inviting as it looks.
For a seasonal twist, you can update the natural elements throughout the year – autumn leaves in fall, seashells in summer, or sprigs of evergreen during winter. The candles remain constant, but the supporting décor keeps your coffee table looking fresh.
3. Mix Candles with Books and Magazines
A classic coffee table styling tip is to include a small stack of books or magazines, but when paired with candles, the result is effortlessly chic. Place a handmade candle on top of a decorative hardcover book or next to a stack of art and design magazines.
This approach adds personality and tells a story about your interests. For example:
- Pair a fashion-inspired coffee table book with sleek, minimalist candles in neutral tones.
- Combine travel magazines with candles featuring exotic scents like sandalwood or jasmine.
- Use glossy art books as a base and top them with a glass jar candle for a touch of sophistication.
This styling trick also works beautifully with pop culture keepsakes. For instance, if you have Friends themed gifts such as a collector’s mug, photo frame, or a mini trivia book, placing them alongside your candles creates a fun, nostalgic focal point. It’s a great way to blend décor with personal memories and spark conversations with guests.
The beauty of this method is its versatility – you can switch out the books or rotate candle scents depending on your mood, season, or current obsessions.
4. Go Minimalist with a Statement Candle
Sometimes, less is more. Instead of cluttering your coffee table with multiple items, let a single, bold handmade candle take centre stage. Choose a candle with a unique design, such as a sculptural shape, intricate carving, or luxurious jar.
This minimalist approach allows the candle to shine as both a functional object and a decorative art piece. To enhance the effect, place the candle on a simple base – a marble coaster or metallic tray – that draws attention without overwhelming the space.
Handmade candles from Amour By Anjali are perfect for this type of styling. Their carefully curated designs and high-quality craftsmanship mean each candle is more than just a source of fragrance; it’s a décor element in its own right. A single piece can elevate your table and instantly make your living room look polished and intentional.
5. Style a Candle Trio for Everyday Charm
When in doubt, stick to the rule of three. Grouping candles in threes is a classic styling trick that always works, no matter your table’s shape or size. Choose three handmade candles of varying sizes, but keep them in a consistent colour palette or complementary scents to maintain harmony.
For example:
- A trio of white candles in small, medium, and large jars.
- Three different scents that evoke a theme – like floral, citrus, and herbal for spring.
- A combination of smooth jars and textured finishes for visual interest.
To complete the arrangement, add a small decorative object like a ceramic bowl or a glass vase. This creates a balanced look without feeling overcrowded. The candle trio adds charm to everyday living while keeping your coffee table approachable and cosy.
Tips for Perfect Coffee Table Candle Styling
While the five methods above can serve as inspiration, here are some extra tips to ensure your styling looks cohesive:
- Balance function and beauty – Leave enough space on your coffee table for practical use. Guests should still be able to set down drinks without moving everything around.
- Experiment with scent layering – Combine complementary fragrances for a more complex atmosphere, such as vanilla with sandalwood or citrus with lavender.
- Use trays as anchors – A tray not only makes the display neater but also allows you to move the arrangement easily when needed.
- Think about proportions – Match the size of your candles to the scale of your table. Oversized candles work better on large surfaces, while smaller candles suit compact tables.
- Don’t forget safety – Always keep flammable objects like paper and fabric away from open flames.
Why Handmade Candles Make a Difference
Handmade candles stand apart from mass-produced alternatives for several reasons:
- Quality ingredients: They often use natural soy wax, cotton wicks, and premium fragrance oils.
- Unique designs: Each piece carries a handcrafted touch, making your décor feel personal.
- Clean burn: Handmade candles are less likely to release harmful toxins, ensuring a healthier home environment.
By choosing artisanal candles, you’re not just decorating; you’re investing in craftsmanship and sustainability. They’re an effortless way to bring warmth, fragrance, and individuality into your living space.
A Coffee Table that Reflects You
Your coffee table should be more than just functional; it should be a reflection of your personality and lifestyle. Handmade candles provide the perfect blend of beauty, fragrance, and ambience to achieve that goal. Whether you prefer layered arrangements, minimalist statements, or natural pairings, candles adapt to your style effortlessly.
With the right candles, every time you sit down in your living room becomes an experience – cosy, elegant, and uniquely yours.
