What a stupendous time Stuart and I had with the CEO.org team planning our next “Live Royally” event for 2027. We explored breathtaking palaces and private castles in Salzburg and Vienna, Austria. Everywhere I turned, from the grandest ballrooms to the more intimate dining chambers, I would tilt my head back to admire the gilded chandeliers and the stately candelabras and notice a detail that would make any traditionalist’s heart sing: every single candle had a perfectly blackened wick!
It reminded me immediately of a lesson Mummy instilled in me years ago. A candle is an object used for light, never merely a static decoration. To display a candle with a pristine, white wick is to suggest it is “just for show,” which, in the world of lovely living, is a “no-no!” By lighting the wick—if only for a brief moment—and then extinguishing it, you signal that your home is a place of authentic hospitality. It shows you actually use your treasures!
There is also a whisper of old-world folklore associated with this practice. Some traditions suggest that a blackened wick serves to ward off “evil spirits.” The idea is that a flame purifies the air, and the charred remains of the wick stand as a silent sentry, proving the light has already conquered the darkness.
Why Blacken the Wick?
Beyond the etiquette and the spirits, there are several “proper” reasons to keep this tradition alive:
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The Grace of Readiness: A pre-burned wick is much easier to light during a dinner party. It catches the flame instantly, sparing you from standing for an awkward length of time as you try to light the candle!
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Authenticity: In a historic or traditionally decorated home, a stark white wick can look a bit “new,” while a blackened wick adds a touch of lived-in soul and timelessness.
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A Polished Look: For an old-school, elegant, but never stiff aura, a blackened wick suggests that a lovely evening has taken place before, and will happen again!
Do take a moment to “kiss” your new candles with a flame before they take their place in your favorite silver holders. It is a small, secret detail, but as we know, the secrets are what make life truly lovely.
With pearls and elegant candlelight,
Xx
Holly
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