Votives, Pillars, Floating Candles & Wax Melts: Which Is Right for You?

Walk into any candle shop and the choices can feel overwhelming: votives, pillars, floaters, melts. Each type has its own personality and its own best use. Here’s a quick guide to help you choose with confidence.

Votive candles: small but mighty

Votives are compact, typically two inches tall, and designed to be burned inside a holder. They liquefy fully as they burn, which gives a strong, consistent scent throw — ideal for filling a bathroom, entryway, or dining table with fragrance. Buy them by the box for everyday use or to scatter across a tablescape. Try our Maggie’s Blend Square Votives or the Texas-favorite Hill Country Bluebonnets votives.

Pillar candles: bold and architectural

Pillars stand on their own without a container and make a striking centerpiece. Because they’re dense, they offer long burn times and a sculptural presence on a mantel or table. Our hand-dipped Santa Rosa pillars, made in the centuries-old tradition, bring a rustic, timeless look to any room.

Floating candles: elegant and event-ready

Floating candles are shaped to rest on the surface of water, making them a favorite for weddings, dinner parties, and seasonal centerpieces. Drop a few into a glass bowl or vase for instant ambiance. Our floating candles come in a range of colors with an eight-to-ten-hour burn time.

Wax melts: fragrance without a flame

Wax melts are flame-free cubes you warm in an electric or tealight warmer. They’re perfect for homes with children or pets, offices, or anywhere an open flame isn’t ideal — and they release fragrance beautifully. Our Maggie’s Blend Soy Wax Melts carry our signature scent without the wick.

How to choose

For everyday fragrance, reach for votives or wax melts. For a statement piece, choose a pillar. For events and entertaining, floating candles steal the show. And when in doubt, mix and match — layering candle types is the easiest way to build a warm, welcoming room. Explore the full collection to find your favorites.