During my childhood, my evenings were dedicated to performing a simple yet meaningful ritual of setting the dinner table and sparking the soft flicker of candlelight. My mother would immerse our home in the tranquil sounds of dinner music—often jazz or classical—that enveloped us in a warm embrace. As we gathered around the flickering candles, my parents and I shared stories from our day, engaging in heartfelt conversations that were always enhanced by the show of light.
In today’s fast-paced digital world, the comforting glow around our dinner tables has shifted from candlelit intimacy to the often harsh light of smartphone screens. However, a nostalgic resurgence is underway. As we face longer nights and embrace the increasingly popular cottagecore aesthetic, numerous families—especially parents—are rekindling the beautiful tradition of dining by candlelight. This movement has not only found a home in our homes, but it has also become a viral sensation on TikTok, with experts revealing that the candle market is, quite literally, on fire, anticipated to reach a staggering USD 8.0 billion by 2031.
Textile designer Heather Taylor expressed a shift in her approach to family meals, saying, “I used to save candles for special occasions; however, I’ve come to realize that even the simplest meals—from a plate of pasta to a casual takeout night—deserve a touch of that warm glow.” She runs the thriving home goods line Heather Taylor Home, where ambiance is prioritized.
Alyson Morgan, who is both an author and a devoted parent, has deepened her family’s mealtime experience since her children were young by utilizing candles in their farmhouse in Wisconsin. She shares, “Candles transport us from the digital world into a cherished analog experience. It’s about turning off those harsh artificial lights to reconnect with our inner light during the darker months.”
There are candles to suit every design preference, from tea lights to large pillar candles to wax poured into fun or quirky shapes. However, it seems that tall taper or pillar candles work especially well on the dinner table. The ever-curious candle aficionados can scatter them throughout the room or use tea lights to maintain that enchanting ambiance. Alyson advises steering clear of scented options at the table. “The overwhelming perfumed scents can overpower the appetizing aroma of whatever delicious dish is cooking,” she cautions.
Food writer Alicia Kennedy, known for her engaging newsletter From the Desk of Alicia Kennedy, emphasizes the importance of aesthetics, selecting all of her candles in classic white to seamlessly blend with various occasions—from festive holiday dinners to serene everyday meals.
Country Living editor-in-chief Rachel Barrett shares how she incorporates vintage matchbooks, gathered during her travels, into her dining experience. This simple addition has significantly transformed her family’s weeknight dinners into moments of connection. “As a parent to two energetic kids engulfed in extracurriculars, our dinnertime often feels rushed and chaotic. Lighting a candle allows us all to reset and focus on being present in the moment, even if the kids are still in their soccer cleats,” she reflects. Her insight highlights children’s need for comfort in established rituals, making this practice an easy yet impactful one to adopt within the family.
Heather affirms, “Aesthetically, candles provide a beloved cozy atmosphere; however, they possess a subtle power to slow us down.” Even amid our busiest days, the act of lighting a few candles embodies a signal that it’s time to gather, pause, and connect with one another.
To-action=”Alicia Kennedy” class=”body-link css-13crpbb emevuu60″>Alicia Kennedy emphasizes the importance of balancing tastes, and shares tips on creating a delightful dining experience. Lighting candles elevates the ambiance, making meals feel special regardless of their simplicity. This practice is gaining traction as a way to enhance everyday moments, turning dining into a more intentional and enjoyable ritual.
The North American candle market is experiencing significant growth, projected to reach USD 8.0 billion by 2031. This surge is driven by consumers increasingly incorporating candles into their daily lives, not just for special occasions but as a means to create a warm, inviting atmosphere. With a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.5%, the market showcases the rising demand for different types of candles, including decorative and functional varieties.
As consumers continue to prioritize experiences and ambiance in their homes, candles are becoming a staple in enhancing daily rituals, whether during family dinners or quiet evenings at home. The versatile designs and scents available in today’s candle market cater to diverse preferences, making them a popular choice for consumers looking to elevate their everyday experiences.
