fredzeppelin

thanks for all the input guys. unfortunately, we are on a budget and most of the ideas listed just aren't cost effective enough. the only solution is for us to make them ourselves. i've already poured some beeswax test candles using a mini-muffin pan and various size flat braided wicks just to get an idea of burn time. i might have to use larger muffin pans... don't know yet. i know a lot of you have worked hard for a long time on your craft and might not necessarily want to give away the "castle secrets" but i'm committed to making this happen. its part of her dream/vision for the wedding and we've both had to sacrifice a lot to make this happen... and i don't want her to have to settle on things that she doesn't really want. any additional input greatly appreciated. p.s. @ candleman - both wide and regular mouth jars

that sounds like a decent idea janette, but i think the bride-to-be has her mind set on floating candles...sigh... i've got six weeks til the big day... thanks again.

reason for the water is: a) we like the effect. i tested a votive inside a mason jar and the jar got so hot that a slight bump shattered the jar. i was afraid of people bumping these jars with their heads etc. we are pretty set on doing it this way... suggestions please.

I have been given the task by my fiance to track down some floating candles for our wedding. The only catch is, they need to be long burning. After searching the net for these, it seemed like everything was way too expensive and i should attempt to make our own. Here's the scenario: 1. We are getting married in her family's walnut orchard at dusk (ceremony and reception in same place). 2. We are planning on having about 400 lanterns made from mason jars (various sizes) which will have floating candles inside (floating on water - probably about half full) hanging from the trees in the orchard. we need about 8-10 hours burn time... so we can set everything up ahead of time... light the candles and still have 4-5 hours for the ceremony/reception. so, a few questions: am i on a suicide mission? if not, please give me suggestions for candle size, materials and wicking. i was planning on using a mini-muffin pan for a mold and using some beeswax in the candles (not sure what % or just pure beeswax). help?