Light up your life

Often at dinnertime, even amongst surrounding craziness that occurs with 2 wee ones and 2 four legged lovelies, I get down a few of my votives (leftover from our wedding over 9 years ago, we had them all over the tables)...and I light candles on the dinner table and set on the mantle as well.

This always somehow relaxes me, the act of lighting them and then the warm glow and soft light make our dinnertime very intimate (yes, even with wee ones) and feels special in a quiet way. Then of course, after dinner everyone makes a wish and blows out a candle or two.

Here are some inspirational and idea sparking ways to display candles I came across and thought I would share, some are great for upcoming holidays or just anytime.

A lovely way to greet guests...

Print something special in a fun font, personal or relating to your event (what you are thankful for at Thanksgiving even naming those at the table) on parchment paper and attach to outside of simple glass candle holder.

I love candlelight, in bathrooms, in bedrooms, on tables, outside, you name it, candlelight just adds that special something to a space.

Of course, you must be careful, and take extra caution with little ones and pets as well.

A fresh and new way to use your pie platters, I might even add a little something around the candles, sand, pebbles, stones, greenery...

Wine glasses transformed.

And then champagne flutes flipped
(make sure the rims are thicker style).

Easy holiday table decor, wrap with wire whatever your heart desires

(could be any holiday!)...think of the possibilities; spiders, webbing, stones, moss, berries, acorns, feathers...oh my the list is limitless! Fun stuff.

Or line them on the stairs...so cool.

Love this simple and festive look.

Now, don't you just want to get out those candles and set the mood for a good time?
All pictures are from realsimple