Candles create a festive glow for celebrations. With the recent introduction of battery-operated candles, there is more variety than ever in craft stores, department stores and even grocery stores.Many manufacturers tout soy as a natural alternative to paraffin, the byproduct of refined petroleum. If you want a more natural candle, evaluate the elements before buying.Beeswax and soy or blends of the two are natural. Look for all-cotton wicks; lead-core wicks can create indoor-air pollution.A burned side dishA candle with essential oils can help eliminate bad juju from a botched cooking attempt.A boring tableA pair of unscented ivory tapers is a tried-and-true classic for the formal table. Beeswax can be used to secure the tapers to the candleholders. Unscented candles won’t compete with the aroma of yummy food.The busy buffetA flameless candle won’t drip wax on the mashed potatoes or engulf the holiday meal centerpiece in flames. Many stores offer battery-operated models, from pillars to tea lights.The powder roomA votive with the subtle floral scent of gardenia, an essential oil.The too-manly man caveUse candles infused with nonfloral scents, such as patchouli or cedar.

Candles create a festive glow for celebrations. And now, many kinds of battery-operated candles are also available. Photo by McClatchy Newspapers