How many candles are needed to light a dinner table?

[Gala Matrix Fire]

I've been wanting to use candles on my dinner table, but so far I can't make them cast enough light to see by, so I have turn on the overhead electric light, and then the candles are pointless.

I've seen candle holders that hold fifteen tealights, but I'm suspicious that that still won't be enough to see by at dinnertime.

Maybe if I augment the table candles with wall sconces? What if I install a dimmer on the electric light? What if I find candle holders with mirrors or facets that enhance the amount of light being given off?

Who has great lighting ideas for a candlelit eating experience?

[twickster]

Dimmer switch is your best bet.

My sister, who's very big on dining by candlelight, uses eight regular candles. She waits until everyone is served and seated before turning off the overhead light -- once you know where everything is on your plate, it's enough light to eat by.

I've done the mirror thing for atmosphere in other parts of my house -- I put candles on the bureau, which has a mirror, in my bedroom, and that gives off a fair amount of light, enough for whatever activities might be going on -- but, uh, well, you know.

For a party once, I put a full-length mirror sideways (long ways) on top of the buffet in the dining room, with candles in front of it -- but this wasn't a dinner party, so lots of light wasn't needed. It looked really cool, though -- very festive.