Candles create a festive glow for celebrations. With the recent introduction of battery-operated candles, there is more variety than ever.

Many manufacturers tout soy as a natural alternative to paraffin, the byproduct of refined petro-

leum and the most frequently used candle wax. The rise in popularity of soy candles coincides with rising gas prices and concern about use of fossil fuels.

If you want a more natural candle, evaluate the elements before buying. Beeswax and soy or blends of the two are natural. Look for all-cotton wicks; lead-core wicks can create indoor-air pollution.

When used safely, candles can be problem-solvers. We looked to these sources for options.

1. A burned side dish

The candle solution: A candle with essential oils can help eliminate bad juju from a botched cooking attempt. Seven-ounce Zum lavender-mint soy candle by Indigo Wild of Kansas City ($15) at indigowild.com

2. A boring table

The candle solution: A pair of ivory tapers is a tried-and-true classic for the formal table. They're unscented, which is important, because you don't want a candle to compete with the aroma of yummy food. Tip: Use the attached strips of beeswax to secure the tapers to the candleholders. Tapers by Creative Candles of Kansas City ($8 a pair) at Ranch Mart Ace Hardware, Overland Park, Kan., 1-913-649-0111

3. The busy buffet

The candle solution: A flameless candle won't drip wax on the mashed potatoes or engulf the turkey in flames. Battery-operated 3-by-4-inch pillar, made in China, imported by Gerson Co. of Olathe ($10) at nellhills.com

4. The powder room

The candle solution: A votive with the subtle floral scent of gardenia, an essential oil. "Gardenia" votive by 5B & Co. Candlemakers ($2.75) at 1-816-361-6393

5. The too-manly man cave

The candle solution: This pillar is infused with patchouli, an essential oil with a definitely nonfloral scent. "A Man's Candle" by Creative Candles ($23) at Ranch Mart Ace Hardware, 1-913-649-0111