We’ve come a long way since the first primitive candles [http://www.homeandfamilyonline.com/vegetable-gardening/a-brief-history-of-candles.html], when only a couple of different formations were available. You need only duck into your local candle store or visit one of the many websites that sell online scented candles to glimpse the staggering array of styles, shapes, colors, and scents on the market today.

Available in both freestanding and container form, a majority of candles fall into one of the following standard groups:

• Tealight Candles: The smallest of the common candle types, tealights are normally between 1” and 1-1/2” high. Usually housed in a metal holder, tealights are cylindrical in shape. Ideal for use in small candleholders or as warmers for potpourri or incense, they also make ideal floating candles when added to a bowl of water. Due to their cost-effective price and short burning times, tealights provide an easy, low-commitment way to sample many different candle scents without investing a lot of money.
• Votive Candles: The next size up from tealights, votive candles are petite in stature, normally between 2” and 2-1/2” tall with a 1-1/2” radius. These versatile cylindrical candles are sturdy enough to stand on their own, but should be contained in a safe cup or holder before burning. Votives can be used for a variety of applications—add them to a sconce candleholder or centerpiece, or line a bathtub or windowsill with individual votives.
• Pillar Candles: One of the most popular candle styles, pillars are freestanding candles that are usually 3” or more in radius. Pillar candles (also known as column candles) can be purchased in a wide variety of shapes and widths. Large pillars often include multiple wicks to allow for even burning from end-to-end. They must be burned on a fire-resistant tray or candleholder to keep the liquefied wax contained. Group several different shapes and sizes together to form a dimensional centerpiece.
• Taper Candles: Often used for special events and ceremonies such as weddings, baptisms, or religious services, taper candles are tall and slender, usually measuring anywhere from 6”-18” high. Often referred to as “dinner candles,” tapers are commonly used as centerpieces for formal meals. Many taper candles are unscented, ensuring that they won’t conflict with the taste of the food being served. They are not free-standing and are meant to be contained by a candleholder.
• Jar Candles: The most versatile type of candle, jar (or container) candles are poured directly into fire-safe containers, usually made with glass or metal. Because they require no special candleholder or surface, highly portable jar candles can be easily and safely moved from one location to another. They require no clean-up and can be cost-effectively disposed of and replaced when they’ve finished burning.
• Luminaria Candles: Make a dramatic outdoor impact by placing a votive or small pillar candle inside a semi-transparent container (such as a paper bag) and lining a walkway or staircase. Be sure to weight the containers with sand or some other fire-safe substance to keep the luminarias securely in place.
• Gel Candles: Made from mineral oils or synthetic hydrocarbons, these clear candles are softer than traditional paraffin candles. Their unique consistency creates a striking visual effect when paired with a dancing flame.

When choosing a candle style for your decorating or entertaining needs, you’ll have no shortage of options. Mix and match various shapes to create a diverse effect. Just be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and guidelines for each candle type to ensure a safe, enjoyable candle-burning experience.