Arden Candlesticks: Styling Short vs Tall for Your Table
By Robert Welch® Designs | Stainless-steel cutlery, knives & cookware | Published: 2026-10-16
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to style Arden candlesticks on your dining table. Compare short vs tall arrangements, get a step-by-step guide, and avoid common mistakes.
Quick answer
For a balanced dining table, use short Arden candlesticks (like the Arden Candlestick Short, 240mm) for everyday meals and lower floral arrangements. Reserve taller candlesticks for formal dinners or when you want to create a dramatic vertical accent. If you're unsure, start with a pair of short candlesticks—they're versatile and won't block conversation.
Why candlestick height changes your table
The height of your candlesticks affects both the visual balance and the practicality of your table setting. Short candlesticks keep sightlines open, making them ideal for conversation-heavy dinners. Tall candlesticks add elegance and draw the eye upward, but they can obscure faces if placed directly between diners. The Arden Candlestick Short stands 240mm high, which is a classic short height that works well with most dining tables. Taller options, while not part of the Arden range, can be used if you have high ceilings or a large room where a vertical element is needed.
How to style short Arden candlesticks
Short candlesticks are the workhorses of table decor. Use them in pairs or groups of three along the centerline of the table. For a clean look, place a pair symmetrically, about 30-40cm apart, and add a low floral arrangement between them. The Arden Candlestick Short has a mirror finish and elegant curves, so it pairs well with both modern and traditional tableware. For candles, the Ivory Venetian Candle 25cm is a perfect fit—its 25cm height means about 1cm of candle will show above the holder, which is safe and looks intentional. Avoid using candles that are too tall for short holders; they can become top-heavy and tip over.
How to style tall candlestick arrangements
Tall candlesticks create a formal, dramatic look. Use them sparingly—one or two tall candlesticks on a large table can be enough. Place them at the ends of the table or flanking a centerpiece to frame the setting. Ensure the candle height is proportional: a tall candlestick typically looks best with a candle that extends at least 10-15cm above the holder. If you're using the Arden Candlestick Short as your only option, you can still create a taller arrangement by placing it on a small pedestal or stack of books, but be cautious about stability. For a cohesive look, mix short and tall candlesticks only if you have a clear focal point, such as a central floral arrangement.
Choosing candles for your Arden candlesticks
The candle you choose matters as much as the holder. The Ivory Venetian Candle 25cm is designed to complement Robert Welch candlesticks and candelabras. It undergoes rigorous testing for safety and quality. Available in six colours, you can match or contrast with your table linens. For short candlesticks, a 25cm candle is ideal. For taller arrangements, you may need a longer candle, but always check that the candle fits securely in the holder. Never force a candle that is too wide; it can crack the holder. Also, trim the wick to 5mm before lighting to prevent smoking and uneven burning.
Step-by-step: styling your Arden candlesticks
- Measure your table and ceiling height: Before choosing candlestick height, measure the distance from the table surface to the ceiling. For short candlesticks (like the 240mm Arden), you need at least 60cm of clearance above the candle flame. For tall candlesticks, ensure at least 80cm. Also consider the width of your table—short candlesticks work on tables as narrow as 80cm, while tall ones need at least 100cm to avoid feeling cramped. Checkpoint: If your ceiling is lower than 2.4m, stick to short candlesticks.
- Decide on the number and placement: For a rectangular table, use a pair of short candlesticks placed symmetrically about 40cm apart along the centerline. For a round table, place three short candlesticks in a triangle. If using tall candlesticks, use one or two at the ends of the table. Avoid placing tall candlesticks directly in front of a diner's face. Common mistake: Placing tall candlesticks in the middle of the table where they block conversation.
- Choose the right candles: Select candles that fit securely in the holder. For the Arden Candlestick Short, the Ivory Venetian Candle 25cm is ideal. Ensure the candle is straight and not loose. Trim the wick to 5mm before each use. If you want a taller look, you can use a longer candle, but never exceed a height where the candle becomes unstable. Checkpoint: The candle should stand upright without wobbling. If it leans, it's too narrow or the holder is too wide.
- Add complementary decor: Balance the height of your candlesticks with other elements. For short candlesticks, add a low floral arrangement or a small bowl of fruit. For tall candlesticks, keep other decor minimal—perhaps a simple runner or a few scattered petals. The goal is to let the candlesticks be a focal point without clutter. Common mistake: Overcrowding the table with too many tall elements, which makes the setting feel chaotic.
- Light and adjust: Light the candles and step back to assess the overall look. Check that the flames are not too close to any flammable decor. Adjust the spacing if needed. If the candles are for a dinner party, light them just before guests arrive so they burn evenly throughout the meal. Final check: Ensure no candle is within 30cm of a wall or curtain, and always never leave burning candles unattended.
Product facts
- Arden Candlestick Short: Arden Candlestick Short: Made from high quality cast stainless steel and hand finished. Height: 240mm. Individually gift boxed and available with a mirror finish. Candle sold separately. The 240mm height is a versatile short size that works for most dining tables. The hand-finished stainless steel and mirror finish add a premium look, and the gift box makes it easy to store or give as a present. Remember to buy candles separately.
- Ivory Venetian Candle 25cm: Ivory Venetian Candle 25cm: A high quality ivory venetian dinner candle to complement Robert Welch candlesticks and candelabras. Available in six colours. These candles undergo a rigorous testing process to ensure a safe, high quality. At 25cm, this candle is perfectly sized for the Arden Candlestick Short, leaving a safe amount of candle above the holder. The six colour options let you coordinate with your table decor, and the rigorous testing gives confidence in safety.
- Arden Bright Cutlery Set, 24 Piece for 6 People - Includes 2 Arden Short Candlesticks: Arden Bright Cutlery Set, 24 Piece for 6 People - Includes 2 Arden Short Candlesticks: Award-winning Arden cutlery, paired with the candlesticks which inspired the design. Both take their name from the ancient Forest of Arden, found in Warwickshire. The Arden collection has a traditional shape, modernised with elegant lines and gradually tapering forms. Simple yet striking, both cutlery and candlesticks have delicate, graceful silhouettes and are a perfect partnership on the dining. This set gives you a coordinated look for your table—cutlery and candlesticks designed to match. It's a convenient way to achieve a cohesive style without mixing collections. The 24-piece set serves 6 people, ideal for dinner parties.
