Candles create a cozy mood and emit beautiful scents. For these reasons, they've become a standard in home decor. Choosing or making just the right candle holder is not hard. The hard part is limiting yourself to just a few!

One of the simplest and most effective tips is to buy a number of inexpensive votive candle holders and place a tea light in each one. Group for a flickering display of light. You will want to add scent separately, perhaps through simmering potpouri or an electric air freshener, or you can look for scented tea lights.

Tea lights are simpler to use than traditional votives, since they don't require the candle holder to be cleaned between candles. For more romance, place a votive candle holder in the center of a floral ring for a simple decoration.

Tapered Look

Tapers in tall candlesticks create an elegant look at a formal dinner, but can be unsafe around an active family. For a similar effect, look for a candle holder designed to hold a pillar candle. Group several of differing heights on the table, and arrange some greenery or flowers around the bases of the candle holders.

Another candle holder option that is as dramatic as it is safe is to float several floating candles in a large crystal bowl. For extra interest place colored marbles or jewels in the bottom of the bowl. The effect of the candlelight reflected in water is lovely.

Often an effective candle holder can be created from simple materials found at home. For instance, a canning jar can become a votive holder, or a fabric covered tin can may hold a pillar candle. Use ornate fabric with metallic accents and trim with ruffled metallic lace for a glam holiday look.

For safety's sake, be sure any loose ruffles or dried flower accents are kept away from the wick of the candle. For a homemade outdoor candle holder, start with a large clear glass vase.

Put a couple of inches of colored aquarium sand in the bottom of the vase. Set a pillar candle down in the sand. The vase will help protect the candle from the wind. For a natural look, use natural sand and place a few shells around the candle. Embellish the vase with a raffia bow if desired.