With summer already here, barbecues and dinners outdoors are some of the best treats you can enjoy alongside your friends and family. But it's not just the food that matters - atmosphere is also an important aspect you should take into account when you're making the shopping list for your next party. Candles are a very simple and affordable way to help ease your guests into a pleasant, comfortable and relaxed atmosphere, and the more creative you are with them, the more spectacular will be the results. Here are a few ideas on how to put candles to good use.

First of all, think who is coming to your party. It's safest to use candles on the dinner table, around the house and/or the pool if there are no young children around. There are two simple ways to choose candles, based on how you're planning to arrange them later on. One option is to buy candles of the same color but in different sizes. Bigger candles always create the maximum of effect, while smaller candles will make the most impact if they're placed closely together or if you use a stylish candle holder.

The other option is to group candles of the same size together, but go for different colors. Colored candles work well if you also decide to place them in a hand-decorated holder. A simple, clear glass bowl or a clear saucer makes for a great holder. Use gravel, sand or even fish tank gravel as a base for the candles, then add things like seashells, petals or dried flowers to crate a theme. You can place the decorated bowls or saucers on the table or in a remote location such as the side of the pool, after removing all flammable materials from their vicinity.

If you happen to have a pool in your back yard, floating candles are a spectacular idea. Wax floats, any candle that is wider than it is tall will float upright. There are candles specifically designed to float, or you can use the same method mentioned above, placing candles in floating bowls or saucers. If you don't have a pool and know for sure that there won't be any kids coming to your party, then half-fill your bath tub with water and place floating candles inside. For added effect, place votive candles around your bath and let matching flower blossoms or petals float along the candles in the bath tub. Smaller floating candles in glass bowls also make for wonderful table centerpieces. Match the various flavors and colors, and you'll be sure to enjoy the results.