Who doesn’t love a good candle? Whether they’re scented or not, I’m a huge fan of adding them to your space. If you’ve paid any attention to your Instagram feed or explore pages lately – you’ve probably seen an uptick in weird, wonderfully shaped candles. They can add a cool decor element without breaking the bank, even though they look too pretty to use.
The festive season is here and quite frankly, I’m trying to find some gifts for myself. It’s a been a hard year and I deserve it, laid ease. Recently, All the Pretty Birds fashion and beauty contributor Chinea Rodriguez found some gorgeous candles to shop online but most of the companies are US-based and I wanted to find what we had on offer locally. So I did a Google, pored over my Instagram feed and did some shopping of my own.
This is a growing directory so if I find out about any more businesses and brands – I’ll be sure to add them here.
Via. Wax
Based in Cape Town and started by two sisters, Nathalie and Laura – this brand got its start on Instagram. Made by hand out of their kitchen, Via. Wax has small drops with retro-inspired colours. You can purchase their candles via their online store, pop them a DM or send an email to them with your ideas and inspirations for something custom.
Melle Studios
Located in Johannesburg, Melle Studios is all about making hand-poured candles that are perfect for the dinner table (but honestly anywhere else in your home). I really love that the candles come in a set, with variety of colours that are super on-trend right now. You can choose between the Spiral, Taper and Sphere candle shapes – depending on what works for your home (or whoever you’re gifting). They recently launched their online store – so you can check out any new releases online.
Okra Candle
Okra Candle was one of the first companies I saw on my social feeds doing these ‘gram worthy dinner candles. Based in Cape Town and started by duo Erik and Michelle, Okra has a variety of shapes, from female/male busts to skinny tall candles that make any table look like it’s out of the Addams Family Values props department. You can shop their range (and get scented candles) on their online store.
If you’re looking for more gifting ideas, I’ve written a short series on tea and coffee brands, more local candle companies to check out and online plant stores.
x A
alyx carolus 
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