🕯️ Votive Candles

What makes a votive different

A votive is a short, cylindrical candle designed to liquefy fully as it burns, pooling wax inside a snug holder. That design gives votives a long, even burn — standard votives run about 15 hours — and a soft, contained glow. Unlike tea lights, votives don't come in their own cup, so they require a proper holder.

Votives are the traditional choice for churches, restaurants, and any setting that needs dependable, low-maintenance candlelight over many hours. They're also among the most economical candles per hour of light.

Choosing votive holders

A votive holder should fit the candle snugly enough to keep it upright but loosely enough for easy replacement. Glass is the classic choice because it glows beautifully and lets you see the wax pool; straight-sided holders are easiest to clean. Ceramic and metal also work and hide the melted wax.

Because votives liquefy completely, the holder must be heat-safe and leak-proof. Always place holders on a stable surface, and clean out leftover wax between uses so the next votive sits level.

Votive burn times explained

Standard votives are rated around 15 hours, though real-world burn time depends on the holder, drafts, and wick care. Some shorter 10-hour votives are sold for single-evening events. The long burn is why votives are a favorite for all-day venues — one votive can cover an entire service or ceremony.

For predictable results, trim the wick to a quarter inch before lighting and let the candle burn in a draft-free spot. Votives that don't liquefy fully on the first burn can tunnel; a proper first burn helps them melt evenly.