Dining table centerpieces range from basic bowls of fruit to highly detailed tabletop decor. One of the most beautiful and most affordable centerpiece options is a candle tray, but it does not have to be ordinary. With a rectangular platter, polished pebbles and an array of pillar candles, you can create a very impressive display like the one pictured. Consider this easy way to make a candy tray centerpiece, and embellish your dining room or kitchen table.
Necessary Supplies to Make this Candle Display
To make a candle tray centerpiece like the one pictured, you will need a shallow rectangular platter that is approximately two inches deep. You will also need polished river rock or pebbles and eight candles in graduating sizes. Choose candles that will coordinate with the colors in your kitchen or dining room, but avoid choosing something fragrant. Scented candles are ideal for the living room, bedroom and other areas where food is not typically served. If scented candles are chosen, select something with a very light fragrance such as vanilla or linen. Also, if open flames are a concern, consider the flickering battery-operated variety.
Wet stones are naturally more eye-catching and vibrant than dry ones. If the stones you want to use for the candle tray centerpiece are not shiny, add permanent shine with clear acrylic spray. Simply lay clean, dry pebbles on newsprint or a paper bag, and spray them outdoors. Allow plenty of time from drying. Turn the pebbles over and spray the other side. The natural colors will pop, and although the stones are dry they will appear slick and wet.
Procedure
To set up the candle tray centerpiece, begin by arranging the candles as shown in the photo. Place the tallest one in the center, and arrange them according to size with the shortest ones on the ends.
Next, fill in the candle tray centerpiece with the polished stones. Rearrange them as necessary with the prettiest specimens on top. It is okay for the base of the candle tray to show through. It does not have to be filled to the brim.
A centerpiece like the one pictured can be purchased, but it is much cheaper to make. Use the aforementioned idea, or come up with your own. Consider using something other than polished stones. White marble chips, flat glass marbles or other eye-catching embellishments can be used instead. In any case, the finished candle tray centerpiece will look lovely when lit in the evening or when during daylight hours.