There are many ways to elevate your home or event premises. Flower decoration, balloon arc, old antiques, and whatnot. But a simple floating candle centerpiece can not only be an elegant decoration, but it’s also inexpensive.
No matter what the season or occasion is, this simple centerpiece can lift moods, and bring in comments and positive vibes. Today we are going to show you how to make floating candle centerpieces because you need this for your next event!

5 Step Process of Making Floating Candle Centerpiece
As the name suggests, floating candle centerpieces are very easy to put together. And require very little effort and time. But it does leave an ever-lasting impression on your loved ones or guests.
It’s more about your creative side, favorite theme, flower, or the season’s best. Here are the things you will need to make a floating candle centerpiece.
- Floating candles.
- Glass floating candle holder.
- Flowers/pebbles/seashells.
- Artificial plants/flowers/roots/herbs.
- Distilled water.
- Different size see-through bowls/mason jars/different size glass jars.

Step 1: Gather Every Element
Start off by gathering everything. You’ll get a better focus and arrangement idea once everything is within your reach.
Step 2: Insert Decorations Inside the Bowl/Jar/Vase
The first step is to place all your decorations in the bowl/jar/vase. This is done so that nothing interrupts the water and candle afterward. Make sure to use some weight on the flower stems if you are using it. If you are only using the flower afloat, then there is no need for anchoring. Also, if there is more than one flower stem, use dental floss to hold them together. For seashells, pebbles, and other decorations that have some weight, just place them in your pot.
Step 3: Fill It Up With Distilled Water
When you are satisfied with the inside, it’s time to pour in the water. The reason we are using distilled water is because it gives a more clearer view, and won’t react with any of the decorative elements. Pour the water as slowly as possible. It should submerge all of the flowers, pebbles, and seashells and cover almost a third of your vessel. Go a little further and add some more keeping 2-3 inches of gap from the decorations.
Step 4: Place Your Candles
And it’s time for the main event. Place your candles on a glass candle holder. Proceed to place them slowly over the water. The reason we are suggesting a floating candle holder is that there won’t be any water to accidentally wet the candle wick.

Step 5: Light up the Candles
When everything is in place, put some twigs, leaves, or flower petals around your centerpiece. It brings in a more artistic and inviting atmosphere. And light up the candles whenever you’re ready.
Bonus Step: Add a Sweet Fragrance
The fun part of a floating candle centerpiece is it is highly customizable. You can incorporate anything and everything in it. And one such secret step you can go for is adding a sweet mild fragrance. Just a tiny bit. It will not only smell great but also offset any unpleasant odor.

Which Vessel for Your Candle Centerpiece Is Better?
The option to decorate your very own candle centerpiece is totally up to you. Depending on the occasion, you can choose the size of the floating candle decoration.
For a bigger room with a center table, a bowl would be fine. Make sure it’s a bit deep so that you get to place in some of your personal favorite decorative pieces along with the candles.
To make things romantic and minimalistic, also a bit rustic, a mason jar is the one to go with. You can not only use one, but several jars, along with different sizes, which makes it more intricate. Make sure to tie some ribbons to make it extra fancy!
Clear tall glasses, flower vases, and jars can also join the party, cause, why not! They give a more modern and unique aspect to the floating candle decoration. But it has to be crystal clear, with no designs or patterns. Or it won’t be as beautiful as it should’ve been.

Pro Tip:
- Regular candles don’t float, so go for floating or tea candles.
- Glass candle holders ensure the candles don’t get water in them or make a mess in the bowl/jar.
- Adding a very small amount of fragrance helps elevate your candle centerpiece by a ton. But use a mild fragrance not to overwhelm your guests.
- Keep the centerpiece away from any hanging decorations or curtains.
- Soak artificial decorations 24 hours prior to putting them in the centerpiece. As the color might start to dissolve, it will ruin the centerpiece.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions and Answers)
What do I fill vases for floating candles?
You fill vases with distilled water for floating candles. This is because there are no impurities in distilled water hence no discoloration or reaction will occur.
How do I get candles to float in water?
Floating candles are different than regular candles. They have lesser weight and density, which allows them to stay afloat. You can make them at your home if you want, which is a bit of a hectic process. So if you are in a hurry we suggest you buy tea candles or floating candles.
FYI: regular candles don’t float in water.
How to make a floating candle from Dollar Tree?
To make a floating candle from Dollar Tree, simply order the items you want to decorate with, along with the vessel (bowl, jar, vase, glass), floating candles, and decorations. When they arrive, put the decorations first inside your vessel, then distilled water, and lastly the candles. It’s easy as that.
Conclusion
Floating candle centerpieces are an aesthetic for weddings, family events, and romantic nights. Make sure you get some tea candles rather than using regular candles in the centerpiece. And always practice safety around the fire. While leaving the venue, event, or room, blow the candles off. Happy decorating!