Today the candle is a staple of any family home, used to create a mood, reflect that homely feel or used purely for decorative purposes, but where did the fascination with one of the world’s most popular gifts first begin and where will it end? Phil Hertel from the specialist online retailer of personalised gifts, Personal Presents, sees the future of the candle taking on more of a creative edge and personal message - here he explains why...

Taken from the Latin term meaning ‘torch’ or ‘to make bright’ the candle dates back as far as 3000 BC to the time of the Egyptians.  These first beeswax candles were often accompanied by rush lights, or torches, which were a slightly different variation of the traditional candle, made by soaking reeds in molten tallow.  Later variations of the gift included candles made from whale fat developed by the Chinese during the Oin Dynasty, burning an oily fish, known as the  ‘candlefish’ on a forked stick and even those made from rendered animal fat.

Thankfully, today the candle making process takes on a much more environmentally friendly edge consisting of paraffin, or in some cases beeswax, soy and other natural waxes. Today’s candles will often take on an entirely new design, shape or in some cases a personalised edge.

Mr Hertel, managing director of the firm who offer christening gifts, personalised anniversary gifts and even birthplates, said, “We are finding that candles are still extremely popular, but in my opinion the candle of 2009 has to be personalised in nature.  Personalised gifts, have become something of a rarity in recent years, making them even more desirable.

“Most of the candles we sell are designed to commemorate the birth of a baby, or a Christening, but we do have candles that can be given as gifts from the little ones to their grandparents and family friends at Christmas and Easter.  We offer a bespoke service that allows the customer to add whichever name they choose, colour scheme and dependant on which candle you select, you can even add a special message to mark any occasion on your chosen candle.”

With prices starting from as little as £9.99 for some designs, there really is no excuse for not allowing the candle tradition to live on well into the next decade- so what are you waiting for?