How to Make Hurricane Floating Candle Floral Centerpieces

Wash the hurricane vases and fill them with water. It is important to wash them even if they are new, as trace dust and fingerprints may be more apparent once candles are lit. Experiment with different water levels in the vases to create a multi-tiered effect once the candles have been placed inside.

Place heavy embellishments in the bottom of the vases. For a formal event, glass beads or gems add sparkle; small, smooth rocks contribute a more low-key, natural element. Marbles are a fun touch for a children's party; sand and seashells work for a beach theme event. For the latter, add the sand before adding water and let it rest for a few hours for the sand to settle.

Place the floating candles in the water-filled hurricane vase. Don't put too many in each vase — make sure the candles have ample room to float, to create gently moving points of light. Choose candles in colors and scents which complement your decor. White, rose-shaped floating candles work well for a wedding, round; apple-scented candles, for a Thanksgiving dinner; baby-blue, seashell-shaped candles complement a beach-themed party.

Add a few flowers heads to the water, allowing them to float among the candles. Choose flowers that will lie flat on the water, such as roses or daisies, to prevent errant petals from catching fire.

Arrange the hurricane vases on the table, being careful not to slosh the water on the table. Evenly space them on a long table, or group them in the center of a round table to create a sparkling focal point.

Light the candles just prior to the beginning of the event. Floating candles often burn quickly because they are fairly small; you don't want them to lose their magic before the event is over.