7 Overlooked Thrift Store Finds You Need for Hosting

Look for Where They Might Be Hiding

You need a Candle to enhance your home atmosphere. While jar candles are easy to merchandise, it’s more difficult for secondhand shops to display votives and tapers in a visually pleasing way, meaning that more than likely, they’re hiding in a bin or box somewhere that requires a bit of a search. Sometimes they’re near the glass section where the candleholders are lurking, or they could be in a place dedicated to candles, holders, and snuffers. If you’re at a loss, just ask an employee where they are.

• Search bins and boxes for hidden gems.
• Check near glass sections for holders.
• Ask employees for help if needed.

Know What to Search For

Invest in a Quality Candle for a better experience. Big box stores sell taper candles relatively inexpensively—often for a dollar or less each—but they typically burn down quickly and drip wax on candlesticks and surfaces. I’ve learned to look for better brands, such as Colonial Candle, that are dripless and tend to last longer. Beeswax candles are also a score, as they’re fairly pricey to buy new. Quality tapers retail for $4 and up each, so finding them for 50 cents or less at my local shop is a bonus. Plus, most thrift stores charge the same price for all candles, so why not be brand-conscious when the cost is the same?

• Look for dripless candles from reputable brands.
• Consider beeswax candles for longevity.
• Enjoy the savings when buying secondhand.

Consider Imperfect Candles for Home Use

Try adding a Unique Candle to your collection. Of course, you’ll see lots of brand new candles at the thrift store, but if you really like a color, pattern, or shape, don’t pass on them if they’re damaged a bit. When burning candles at home, it doesn’t necessarily matter if they are chipped or broken. Even preburned candles can add a lived-in look, as the wicks will blacken after one use anyway. If your purpose is to display tapers, opt for new, but otherwise, imperfect candles will still add a soft glow to your room.

• Don’t shy away from slightly damaged candles.
• Preburned candles add character.
• Perfect for enhancing ambiance at home.

Layer Candles for a Modern Look

You need a Candle Layering Technique for stylish decor. This year, one of the most impactful lighting trends is layering. Instead of harsh, ambient light sources, designers are using accent lamps, sconces, and task lighting to add softness. And candles can accomplish that same goal. Need ideas? Dim your dining room chandelier and burn tapers, or create a focal point with a cluster of low votives paired with sculptural tapers on an entry table—all in thrifted holders, of course.

• Use candles for soft lighting effects.
• Create focal points with clusters of candles.
• Mix thrifted holders for added charm.

Stock Up for Special Occasions

Try adding a Variety of Candle Colors for every season. There was a time when I’d never consider a candle color other than white or cream, but now that I actually use my candles, a whole world of possibilities has opened up. No matter the time of year, I keep an eye out for specific colors while remaining open to different tones. My favorites are red and green, which work for various holidays, but I also pick up pastels for springtime and earthier tones for fall decor.

• Look for seasonal colors like red and green.
• Consider pastels for spring decor.
• Earthy tones can enrich fall aesthetics.

Don’t Save Them for Special Occasions Only, Though

Swap this for a Regular Candle Usage. I used to only keep tapers out for show, but now I burn them all the time to add a soft glow. Knowing that I can easily and inexpensively replace candles has allowed me to relax about something so simple as burning them. Even if it’s not mealtime, I’ll light candles on my kitchen counter or in the corner of a bathroom to make even an ordinary day seem a bit more special.

• Use candles daily for a cozy feel.
• Enhance mundane moments with soft lighting.
• Relax about using candles more often.