Waxing Poetic

Cards aren’t the only way to light up someone’s day.

Personalized candles from the Yankee Candle Co. make special days seem more memorable.

The candles, available in 47 fragrances, can be personalized with names, dates and nearly any message, from “Happy Holidays” to “Happy Birthday”--or one of your own creation.

For information or to order: (800) 243-1776.

Setting Pretty

You’ve got it covered with tablecloths that set a certain look at the table, and Bardwil Linens has three styles designed to add flair to any event or function.

Arbor Plaid is a striking large-scale plaid printed on a leaf Jacquard cloth. In cranberry, wheat and eucalyptus, it’s ideal for fall and winter.

Fresh Accents is a solid satin cloth for occasions when you want to pull out all the stops--like New Year’s Eve. The tablecloth comes in gold, burgundy, silver, navy or hunter.

The folk-art inspired Snowtime features friendly snowmen and Santa in his reindeer-drawn sleigh.

The machine-washable linens range from $15 to $45, depending on size and pattern.

Metallica

Glow with the soft shine of gold this holiday season, using bold vessels from Calvin Klein Home.

Calvin Klein Home’s tabletop collection for 1997 features modern shapes enriched by deep color and subtle texture. A touch of gold adds a little gleam and sophistication to the table.

The tabletop collection includes burnished bronze bowls and a flat platter, both finished with a matte gold wash inside. The striking colors resemble those of ancient textiles, yet the pieces capture the essence of modern luxury.

A charger (12 inches, $180), a salt and pepper shaker set ($100) and tall and short candlesticks (3 1/2 inches, $60; 10 1/2 inches, $80) complete the look.

The serving platter (13 inches, $350) and bowls (6 inches, $200; 10 inches, $270) and other furnishings are available at the Calvin Klein Home boutique, South Coast Plaza, Costa Mesa.