Photo Candle vs Wreath Candle: Which Baptism Candle Style Is Right for You?

A Photo Candle and a Wreath Candle are the two main styles of personalised Baptism candle we offer, and the choice comes down to one main thing: whether your child's photo is the centrepiece of the design, or an optional extra alongside a decorative wreath. Both are handcrafted, Australian-made pillar candles personalised with your child's name, date and venue, with your choice of wording on the back.

What Is a Photo Candle?

A Photo Candle puts your child's photo front and centre on the candle, alongside their name, date and venue. Because the photo is the main design element, this style works best when you already have a photo you love — whether it's a portrait taken specially for the occasion or a favourite family snap.

The back of the candle carries your chosen wording (a poem, prayer or verse) and the names of godparents or sponsors, so the candle doubles as a keepsake of both the image and the words that mattered on the day.

What Is a Wreath Candle?

A Wreath Candle features a decorative wreath or floral design on the front, along with your child's name, date and venue. A photo can still be added if you'd like one, but it's optional rather than the focus of the design.

This style suits families who prefer a more classic, symbolic keepsake, who don't yet have a portrait they're set on, or who simply like the look of a wreath design better than a photo-led one. As with the Photo Candle, the back carries your chosen wording and the names of godparents or sponsors.

Photo Candle vs Wreath Candle: Quick Comparison

Which Should You Choose?

Choose a Photo Candle if…

• You already have a photo you love from the ceremony or a recent portrait
• You want the candle to double as a framed-style family keepsake
• A clear, personal image matters more to you than a decorative motif

Choose a Wreath Candle if…

• You don't have, or don't want to commit to, one specific photo
• You prefer a more traditional, symbolic design
• You'd still like the option to add a photo, without it being the main feature

In short: choose a Photo Candle if your child's photo is the centrepiece you want to display, and a Wreath Candle if you prefer a decorative, symbolic design with the photo as an optional extra.

Ordering Is the Same Either Way

Whichever style you choose, the process is identical. We'll ask for your child's name, date and venue (plus a photo if relevant), and you can pick from our Candle Wording Examples or send us your own wording at no extra cost. We'll always email you a free digital proof to approve before we print, and an Urgent Order service is available if your ceremony is less than three weeks away.

Many families also add matching Taper Candles for godparents and sponsors, in either style.

Browse Both Styles

Browse our Personalised Photo Candles

Browse our Personalised Wreath Candles

Related Baptism Planning Resources

• Wording Ideas: Find inspiration with our Candle Wording Examples.
• The Big Day: Use our full Organising a Baptism Checklist to ensure you don't miss a step.
• The Candle's Meaning: Discover Why You Need a Baptism Candle.