What do the Candles Mean for a Sweet 16?
The Sweet 16 candles ceremony is a beautiful way to celebrate a young lady’s birthday. Sweet 16 candles are a symbol of the transition from childhood to adolescence, and they are often used to make a wish for the future.
The birthday girl starts by lighting 16 candles, representing her 16 years of life. Each candle will be given to an important person in her life. This person can be a family member or a close personal friend.
A short speech will be given to each of the recipients of a Sweet 16 candle. The speech can be a short ‘Thank You’ or a funny or emotional story of a past event with the Sweet 16 candle recipient.
What is the Sweet 16 Candles Lighting Ceremony?
Sweet 16 candles lighting ceremony takes place. After the entrance ceremony, the shoe ceremony, and the father and daughter dance. But before the cake-cutting ceremony.
If you have a live entertainment show planned for your guests with you and your friends dancing, the candle lighting ceremony generally takes place before that show.
There are two types of Sweet 16 candle ceremonies.
For the first type, get a small notebook and write your speeches or highlights that you want to bring out during the Sweet 16 candle lighting ceremony speech.
You will need someone helping you during this ceremony. Remember you will have on your hands, the notebook, a microphone, and the candle you have to light up before giving it to the guest.
Practice at home how to juggle this difficult process. Have a very small notebook that you may be able to hold with one hand with the microphone.
Try not to put down the microphone on the table and just pass it to the person assisting you with the candle ceremony (some microphones create loud feedback if they are suddenly put down without being turned off).
That person passes you the candle, and you temporarily pass the microphone to the assistant while you give out the candle to your guest.
You probably don’t want the assistant to be someone that you are giving a candle, but if it is a person you want to give a candle to, then make sure they are the last person you give out the candle to. (You can even give them as a surprise gift because they did not see it coming).
As you give the Sweet 16 candles out, the candle recipients will stand to one side of you and form a line and they will blow out the candles together all at once and the ceremony will be over.
The second Sweet 16 candle ceremony type is very similar to the first one. You do not physically give out any Sweet 16 candles to guests.
You do give them a short speech and call them to stand next to you one at a time, and each candle recipient will help you light one candle at a time from a ‘Candelabras’ a special candleholder stand with 16 or 17 candles.
Your guest can return to their seats after helping you light up their candle, or form a line behind you as other guests are called out. After all the Sweet 16 candles are lit up, you can go ahead and blow all the candles out.
You may want to take some photos with all the recipients together in front of the Candelabras before you blow out the candles.
Who do You Give Candles to at a Sweet 16?
The first and second Sweet 16 candles will be given to the person that raised you. Most of the time it will be the parents of the birthday girl; mom and dad.
You can choose to give one single candle to both of them, and it will be fine this way. You can honor both of your parents by giving a combined speech for both of them.
This will also allow you to free up an extra candle to give to someone else, but if you are short of people to give out a candle at the candle ceremony.
Just break up candles one and two for mom and dad, but you will have to break down two speeches for each of them.
For many reasons, one or both parents may not be available to give out the candle. You can give the candle to a legal guardian that raised you.
This can be a grandmother, aunt, uncle, stepdad, or stepmom. Trust me, you will know who this person is. It’s the closest family member to your heart. Your grandparents can also receive the second candle together.
The third and fourth Sweet 16 candles will be given out to siblings, those you grew up to you the closest and experienced your ups and downs together.
Depending on how many brothers and sisters you may have, you may have to give three or four candles out to this group.
If you feel like you have too many siblings to give out candles, and won’t have enough candles left to give out to aunts, cousins, and close friends.
Just explain to your siblings in private before the event the need to exclude them from this important ceremony.
My advice is if you have a few sisters and a few brothers… cut the boys out. They won’t take it take too personal. The ceremony may even be too girly for them and they will be glad that you cut them off from it.
The fifth and sixth sets of Sweet 16 candles will be given out to cousins. You may not have that many cousins or have a lot of candles to give out to this group; it’s normal.
Try to set a balance with this group and the next upcoming group (I will get to them in a second) This group is very similar to the sibling group, so if you need to prioritize people to give out candles… cut the boys out again if needed.
Also, you may have a very close childhood friend that is like a brother or a sister to you. Even though friends are lower on the list of giving out candles, in certain rare circ*mstances you can bump up that one single special friend to this tier group.
The seven and eight Sweet 16 candle sets are reserved for uncles and aunts. For the most part, this will probably be the smallest group you will give out candles to.
I’ve noticed this group only being big when parents are absent from the birthday girl’s life many number of reasons.
(I organized a Sweet 16 event where both parents had passed away, and the birthday girl gave out most of the candles to all her uncles and aunts that helped plan the Sweet 16 event for her.)
The ninth and remaining Sweet 16 candle sets will be given out to friends. Schoolmates or even school teachers, there’s no age limit in this group.
Don’t worry about creating a hierarchy of jealousy between friends if one friend gets called out before the other one.
Pro-tip, call them out by alphabetic order; girls first, then boys. No feelings will be hurt if you do it this way.
How to Create a Sweet 16 Candles Ceremony Table?
It’s pretty simple, the event venue should have some extra tables for you to use; if not a small foldable 4f table from Walmart for $40 should be more than enough space for the Sweet 16 candles.
You also want to get a linen cloth for the table. You can reuse an extra cloth table that’s not being used or buy a stretch linen tablecloth on Amazon for around $10.
To DIY the Sweet 16 candle ceremony table, you will need 16 pillar candles, for the Sweet 16 candles holders you will need 16 regular candle holders (whatever your preference will be as long as they all match in color and design) and a simple kitchen candle lighter.
(A Sweet 16 candles stand is optional)
Sweet 16 Candles
Sweet 16 Candles Holders
Sweet 16 Candles Stand (Optional)
Kitchen Candle Lighter
Place the candleholders on the center of the table and measure the space between them 2 to 3 inches, so they form a perfect line side by side.
You can decorate the table with flowers to pretty it up a little bit, but I would strongly discourage you from adding too many decorations to the 16 candles table.
You don’t anything getting too close to the candle flames; the risk of catching fire is great. I would just keep everything somewhat plain for the 16 candles table.
Go to Etsy, and just search for ‘custom name signs‘ in wood, plastic, or metal. Pro-tip, this will be much cheaper than typing ‘Sweet 16 custom name signs‘ price options are 80% lower, and your guests won’t be able to tell the difference.
And finally, If everything above seems too much hard work. You can buy a fully custom-made candelabra from an online marketplace like Etsy for around $70 to $140; they will have the colors you want and the birthday girl’s name on it mailed to you in a few days.
How Many Candles are on a Sweet 16 Candelabra?
A candelabra is a beautiful candleholder stand with 17 candles, you can get them fully customized with colors that match your event and have the birthday girl’s name written on the front of them.
You may be confused why there is an extra candle for a Sweet 16 ceremony.
This is the lucky Sweet 16 candle, just an extra candle for the birthday girl to gift to someone that could not make the event or has passed away, and she wants to honor their memory.
The birthday girl may also decide to give this Sweet 16 candle to everyone inside the room, and light the candle by just herself.
Sweet 16 Candles Speeches Examples
Sweet 16 candles speeches are a time for the birthday girl to thank her parents and guests for their support.
Here are several examples of sweet 16 candles speeches that you can use as inspiration for your own Sweet 16 candles speeches.
“Dear Mom and Dad,
I can’t believe I’m already Sweet 16! It feels like just yesterday I was celebrating my 9th birthday. Time really does fly when you’re having fun. I want to take this opportunity to say thank you to you both for everything you’ve done for me over the years. You’ve always been there for me, whether I needed help with my homework or just a shoulder to cry on. I’m so lucky to have you as my parents. I love you both so much.”
“Hi Mom and Dad,
I can’t believe it’s already my Sweet 16! The past few years have flown by, and I feel like I’ve grown up so much. I want to take this opportunity to say thank you to my parents for everything they’ve done for me. They’ve always been there for me, no matter what, and I’m so grateful for that. I know I wouldn’t be where I am today without their love and support. Thanks, Mom and Dad!”
“Hi brother,
Thank you, brother, for always being there for me. You’ve always had my back, whether I needed help with my homework or just someone to talk to. You’ve always been a great listener, and I really appreciate that. Thank you also for your advice and guidance – I know I wouldn’t be where I am today without your support. I’ll always be grateful to you for being such a wonderful brother. Thanks again from the bottom of my heart.”
“Dear brother,
Thank you, brother, for always being there for me. Whether I needed a shoulder to cry on or someone to help me move furniture, you were always there. You’ve always been my rock, and I can’t imagine what I would do without you. Thank you for being the best brother I could ask for.”
“Hi sister,
Thank you for always being my sister. Thank you for being the one person in my life who knows me better than anyone else. Thank you for always being there for me, no matter what. Thank you for listening to me and supporting me, even when I’m at my lowest. Thank you for always being honest with me and never sugarcoating anything. Thank you for being my best friend and the most important person in my life. I don’t know what I would do without you, and I’m so grateful that I have you in my life. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for everything. I love you, sister.”
“Dear sister,
Thank you for being such a great role model. You’ve always been so confident and sure of yourself, and I’ve always looked up to you for that. Thank you for never giving up on your dreams, even when things get tough. Thank you for showing me that it’s never too late to learn and grow. I am so proud of the woman you have become, and I know that anything you set your mind to, you can achieve. Thank you, sister, from the bottom of my heart.
“Hi friend,
Thank you so much for being such a great friend. You’re always there for me when I need you, and I really appreciate it. I know I can always count on you, and that means a lot to me. Thank you for being someone I can rely on.”
“Dear friend,
I’m really grateful for your support and encouragement. You’ve helped me through some tough times, and I really appreciate it. That’s what friends are for, and I’m glad I can count on you. Thanks for being such a great friend.”
“Hi cousin,
Thank you for being an amazing cousin and friend. You’ve always been there for me, whether I needed a shoulder to cry on or someone to share a laugh with. I can’t imagine my life without you in it. Thank you for being the best cousin ever.
“Dear cousin,
I don’t know what I would have done without you during the tough times in my life. Your support and friendship meant so much to me. Thank you for being the best cousin a girl could ask for. You’re such an amazing human being, and I’m so lucky to be able to call you my cousin. Thanks for everything.
“Hello again Auntie,
I wanted to take a moment to show my appreciation for everything you’ve done for me over the years. Your constant support and love have meant the world to me, and I sincerely thank you from the bottom of my heart. From helping me with my homework to taking me on vacations, you have always been there for me. I really appreciate it. I know that I can always count on you and I am so lucky to have you in my life. You’ve helped shape me into the person I am today and I am so grateful. Knowing that I can always count on you is one of the greatest gifts life has ever given me. Thank you for being the best auntie ever!”
“Thank you Uncle,
I wanted to take this opportunity to thank you for your support over the past years, Uncle. It has meant so much to me and I am truly grateful. Your guidance and advice have been invaluable, and I know that I would not be where I am today without your help. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.Your generosity is deeply appreciated, Uncle. Thank you for your kindness and thoughtfulness. I know that your gifts are always given with love, and I am truly blessed to have you in my life. Thank you, thank you, thank you!
“Hi Grandma and Grandpa,
Thank you, Grandma and Grandpa, for everything. I know I don’t say it enough, but I really appreciate all that you do for me. From taking me to my favorite restaurant on my birthday to cheering me on at my soccer games, you are always there for me. You have always believed in me and supported me, even when nobody else did. I know I can always count on you to be there for me, no matter what. Thank you for being the best grandparents a girl could ask for. I love you!
“Dear Grandma and Grandpa,
Thank you, Granny and Pops, for your never-ending supply of love and support. You have always been there for me, even when I haven’t been very good. I know I can be difficult at times, but you never give up on me. You have always encouraged me to be the best that I can be. Thank you for your wisdom and your patience. Thank you for believing in me even when I didn’t believe in myself. There’s nobody in the world who could ever take your place in my heart. I love you!
“Hi everyone,
I want to thank all of my friends and family for being here today. It means so much to me that you all took the time to celebrate with me. Here’s to an amazing year ahead!”
“Hello everyone,
I want to thank all of my family and friends for being here today. It means the world to me that you all came to celebrate with me. I’m so excited to see what the next year has in store for me. I’ll cherish these memories forever. Thank you all so much.”
After the Sweet 16 Candles Ceremony
After the Sweet 16 candles ceremony is over, make sure all the candles are put out before storing them away and moving on to the next phase of the party.
You don’t want your special day to become a nightmare because someone bumped into your Sweet 16 candles ceremony table while dancing, and one of the candles was still burning.
All venues have fire extinguishers, but just in case, I would purchase one of these fire extinguisher spray cans and have it nearby to the 16 candle table just in case.
Sweet 16 Candles Ideas
Here are a few Sweet 16 candle ideas you can use for your Sweet 16 candles ceremony birthday party. Etsy is a great resource for Sweet 16 candle ideas, so here are the best ones there.
Pink 16 Candles Sweet 16 Candles
Buy Pink 16 Candles Sweet 16 Candles
At first glance, this Sweet 16 Candelabra may look like a simple decoration. But upon closer inspection, it becomes clear that this is a truly special piece.
The delicate pink foam and sparkling rhinestones are just the starts – the real beauty of this candelabra lies in the details.
From the intricate lace trim to the magnificent pearl-accented shoes, every element of this piece has been carefully crafted to create a stunning work of art.
Pink Roses 16 Candles for Sweet 16 Candles
Buy Pink Roses 16 Candles for Sweet 16 Candles
This Candelabra Sweet 16 candles table is the perfect choice for this special occasion. The delicate pink blooms are accented with sparkling pearls, adding a touch of elegance to the arrangement.
The foam letters can be customized with the birthday girl’s name, making it a truly personalized gift. And the 3D styrofoam provides a sturdy base for the candles, ensuring that the arrangement stays in place throughout the party.
Floral Sweet 16 Floating Candles
Buy Floral Sweet 16 Floating Candles
This beautiful piece features 3D foam letters that spell out the birthday girl’s name, along with a stunning display of flowers inside gorgeous water-filled jars.
Floating candles in water complete the look, providing a romantic and elegant touch.
Butterfly Candelabra Sweet 16 Candles
Buy Butterfly Candelabra Sweet 16 Candles
This Candelabra sweet 16 candle holder will be the perfect addition to your birthday girl’s special day.
The candelabra is adorned with a 3D name in blue with diamonds, and the top of the birthday girl’s name is adorned with beautiful butterflies.
The custom 3D name is made of high-quality foam letters and is very detailed.
Red Glitter Sweet 16 Birthday Candles Candelabra
Buy Red Glitter Sweet 16 Birthday Candles Candelabra
This beautiful centerpiece features 3D foam letters that spell out the birthday girl’s name in glittery and red letters.
The candles are set in ascending steps, adding a touch of elegance to the piece. The 16 candles have a unique red color with glitter.
Rounded Candelabra Candles for Sweet 16
Buy Rounded Candelabra Candles for Sweet 16
This Rounded Candelabra Candle Lighting with gold glitter with or without rhinestone tiara is the perfect choice! This stunning piece features 16 candles, arranged in a beautiful circular design.
The center of the piece is accented with a gold glitter number 16 or rhinestone tiara, making it extra special for the birthday girl. The candles are surrounded by a custom 3D foam name of the birthday girl.
DIY a Candelabra with this Sweet 16 Candles Holder
Buy DIY Candelabra with this Sweet 16 Candles Holder
Looking for a fun and unique sweet 16 candle holder centerpiece? DIY a candelabra yourself! Is the perfect way to add some personal flair to your Birthday girl’s big day!
It features 16 candle holders, each with its own built-in drip cup. Plus, the simple design means it’s easy to assemble – no need for expensive tools or professional help.
Just decorate the base with flowers of your choice, paint some glittler or glue cute ribbons on it.
Colorful Taper Candles for Sweet 16
Buy Taper Candles for Sweet 16
If you want to add a bit more color to the candle ceremony display, consider getting some taper candles for your Sweet 16 event.
Special Sweet 16 Birthday Candles from Movie 16 Wishes
Buy Special Sweet 16 Birthday Candles from Movie 16 Wishes
You can use these fun colorful candles for more casual Sweet 16 birthday parties, let’s say a backyard birthday party. They are very cute and come in a nice decorative box.
