One of the best ways to experience the scents of the South is through the use of handmade candles. Fortunately, there are many talented and passionate Southern candle makers who take pride in creating high-quality, all-natural products.

Artisanal Candle Makers in the South

Many Southern candle makers use traditional methods and locally sourced ingredients to create their products. They take great care in selecting the best materials and crafting candles that not only smell great but also look beautiful.

One such candle maker is Sarah from Savannah, Georgia. She sources her beeswax from a local beekeeper and uses it to create beautiful pillar candles that have a natural, honey-like scent. Sarah takes pride in the fact that her candles are not only eco-friendly but also support local beekeepers.

Another candle maker is John from Asheville, North Carolina. He creates soy candles in small batches, using only essential oils for fragrance. John believes in the power of aromatherapy and carefully selects scents that promote relaxation and well-being.

The Process of Creating Southern Candles

Creating a high-quality candle is no easy feat. It requires a great deal of skill and attention to detail. Southern candle makers take pride in their work, and often spend hours perfecting each and every candle. From selecting the right scents to pouring the wax, every step is carefully planned and executed.

Many candle makers, like Lisa from Charleston, South Carolina, use a double-boiler method to melt their wax. This ensures that the wax is heated evenly and doesn't burn. Lisa also adds in dried flowers and herbs to her candles for a beautiful visual effect.

Another important step in candle making is wicking. Wicks need to be the right size and placed in the center of the candle to ensure an even burn. This is something that candle maker Michael from New Orleans, Louisiana takes very seriously. He hand-pours his candles and carefully places each wick to ensure that his candles burn evenly and for as long as possible.

Supporting Local Southern Businesses

When you purchase candles from local Southern businesses, you're not only getting a high-quality product, but you're also supporting the local economy. These small businesses are often family-owned and operated, and every purchase helps to keep them thriving.

Many Southern candle makers, like Mary from Nashville, Tennessee, also give back to their communities. Mary donates a portion of her profits to a local animal shelter and uses recycled materials for her packaging.

So the next time you're in the market for a candle, consider supporting a local Southern candle maker. You'll not only be getting a beautiful and fragrant product but also supporting a small business and the local community.