As the days shorten and the air turns crisp, home becomes more than a place to retreat to - it becomes a haven. Autumn invites us to gather, to slow down, and to savour the comfort of candlelight. With evenings spent indoors once more, it’s the perfect moment to reimagine your dining table as the heart of your home - a place for shared meals, gentle laughter, and soft flickers of light dancing across glassware.
And the secret to creating that effortless sense of warmth? Candle holders.
Whether rustic and sculptural or sleek and modern, the right candle holders can completely transform a tablescape - adding height, mood, and artistry. They are the subtle details that make a meal feel special, even on an ordinary evening.
Why Candle Holders Belong at the Centre of Your Table
Candle holders are one of the simplest yet most transformative styling elements. They create rhythm and balance across the table, catching and reflecting the candle’s glow. A single sculptural piece can anchor the entire setting, while a mix of varying heights and textures draws the eye and adds intrigue.
When paired thoughtfully, candle holders don’t just illuminate a space - they tell a story about the season, your mood, and your personal style. This autumn, we are sharing with you our candle holder collection from What a host that brings together rustic charm, contemporary design, and timeless craftsmanship - all designed to set the perfect atmosphere for indoor gatherings.
Mash + Mint Favourites for an Autumn Glow
Each of these candle holders offers its own mood and personality - together they form a collection that celebrates the beauty of contrast.
Anya Rustic Iron Candelabra
A statement piece that commands attention, the Anya Candelabra combines rustic charm with sculptural form. Its weathered iron finish captures the essence of autumn - grounded, natural, and inviting. Perfect for long dining tables, it pairs beautifully with warm linen runners, dried foliage, and deep-toned glassware.
Cessna Black Candle Holder - Irregular Shape
With its organic silhouette, Cessna is both modern and moody. Its sculptural irregularity makes it ideal for a minimalist table setting or a monochrome theme. Style it alongside simple ceramics or neutral tablecloths for a quietly contemporary feel.
Myra Iron Black Candle Holder Set
A versatile trio that works beautifully together or apart, the Myra set brings balance and depth. Their matte black finish feels sleek and sophisticated, while the subtle variations in height allow you to layer light naturally across the table.
Viena Sculpture Shape Iron Black Candle Holder
Part functional piece, part work of art - the Viena Candle Holder is perfect for those who appreciate form as much as function. Its sculptural shape adds an artistic edge, ideal for a modern home or for anyone looking to create a talking point in their tablescape.
Margo Iron Rustic Candle Holder Set
Rustic yet refined, the Margo set brings a touch of countryside warmth to any setting. The distressed iron finish pairs beautifully with natural materials - think woven placemats, wooden boards, and earthy tableware. This set instantly makes your dining space feel lived-in and welcoming.
Anna White Ceramic Candle Holder
Soft and minimal, Anna offers a lighter touch. Its crisp white ceramic design brings freshness and calm to darker autumn tones, creating contrast that feels effortless and timeless. Perfect for brunches, morning gatherings, or tablescapes that favour serenity over drama.
How to Style the Perfect Autumn Tablescape
1. Start with a mood, not a colour palette.
Before pulling out table linens or choosing plates, think about how you want your evening to feel. Do you want something romantic and moody? Go for darker tones, iron holders, and candlelight in abundance. Prefer calm and clean? Pair lighter holders like Anna with soft neutral fabrics and simple glass votives.
2. Mix heights and textures.
Layering is key to a tablescape that feels natural rather than staged. Alternate tall taper candles in pieces like Anya or Viena with shorter votives or tea lights. This creates movement and rhythm - your eye naturally dances from one element to another.
3. Keep it balanced.
If your candle holders are dramatic, keep your tableware simple. If your holders are subtle, introduce bold napkins or textured chargers. Think of your table as a composition - every element should complement rather than compete.
4. Let the candles do the talking.
There’s a certain magic that happens when the lights dim and the first candles are lit. Allow that warm flicker to take centre stage. Avoid overly bright lighting and embrace shadows - they add depth, texture, and intimacy.
5. Add natural autumnal touches.
Layer in small seasonal details to bring your table to life: dried hydrangeas, branches of eucalyptus, miniature pumpkins, or clusters of berries. These touches connect your table to the season without overpowering it.
Creating an Atmosphere Worth Remembering
Candlelight has an emotional quality - it softens spaces and slows moments down. A candle holder does more than display a flame; it shapes the way that light behaves in your room. The reflection on metal, the warmth against ceramic, the subtle shadows on linen - these small details weave together to create an atmosphere that feels deeply human.
An autumn tablescape doesn’t need to be elaborate or costly to feel special. With just a few carefully chosen candle holders, you can completely change the tone of your home. Whether it’s a simple supper for two or a gathering of friends, the glow of the Anya, Viena, or Margo candle holders will make it feel like an occasion.
