A Personal Journey into Candle Appreciation
The other day I was sitting with my book and remembered the first time I lit a soy candle during Diwali a few years ago just after I was married. The gentle flicker, the subtle fragrance of Mogra and the soft glow it cast across the room created an ambiance that was both calming and festive. It wasn't just about illumination; it was about the experience, the mood, and the memories it evoked.
This led me to ponder: what truly makes a candle premium? Is it the price tag, the brand name, or something more intrinsic?
1. The Essence of Quality: Wax Matters
At the heart of any candle lies its wax. While paraffin wax is commonly used due to its affordability, it often releases black smoke and toxins when burned. In contrast, soy candles, made from hydrogenated soybean oil, offer a cleaner and longer-lasting burn.
This was one of the many reasons when we started making candles at Mandy & Co. Here we use only premium soy wax, which is non-toxic, sustainable, eco-friendly, and biodegradable. It burns slowly and cleanly, producing no harmful smoke and causing no indoor pollution—making it a healthier alternative to most candles available in the market.
Soy wax’s lower melting point also ensures a slower burn, allowing you to savor the fragrance and ambiance for extended periods. Every candle we pour is a conscious choice for a safer, more mindful lifestyle.
2. Fragrance: The Soul of the Candle
A premium candle doesn't just light up a room; it fills it with a captivating aroma. The quality of fragrance oils used plays a pivotal role. High-end candles often incorporate essential oils or toxin-free blends that provide a balanced and enduring scent throw.
Unlike many mass-produced candles that use phthalate-laden synthetic fragrances, luxury candles including the ones that we at Mandy & Co make choose pure essential oils that are safe to inhale—even when you're sitting close to the flame. This commitment to purity ensures that every breath you take around our candles is not only aromatic but also safe.
One of the most impressive and impressionable soy candle I recall purchasing was a mind-blowing infusion of lavender and eucalyptus. The aroma was so authentic and soothing that it transformed my living space into a personal spa. That's this kind of experience that distinguishes a premium candle from the rest.
3. Wick Wisdom: The Unsung Hero
The wick might seem like a minor component, but it significantly influences a candle's performance. Premium candles typically use cotton or wood wicks, which ensure a steady flame and minimal soot production.
Wooden wicks were not very popular in India till a few years back. Wood wicks, in particular, offer a unique crackling sound reminiscent of a fireplace, adding an auditory dimension to the candle experience. This multi-sensory engagement elevates the simple act of lighting a candle into a holistic ritual.
4. Artistry in Design and Packaging
A premium candle is as much about aesthetics as it is about function. From elegantly designed containers to thoughtfully crafted packaging, every detail contributes to the overall experience.
I once received a Diwali candle encased in a handcrafted ceramic jar, adorned with intricate patterns. It wasn't just a candle; it was a piece of art that complemented my home décor.
At Mandy & Co., our candles are hand-poured by women, not machines. This human touch—the intent, the care, the labour of love—is what sets a truly premium candle apart from factory-made alternatives.
5. Sustainability and Ethical Craftsmanship
In today's conscientious consumer landscape, the story behind a product matters. Premium candles often come from brands that prioritize sustainable sourcing, ethical labor practices, and eco-friendly packaging.
Supporting such brands means investing in products that align with values of environmental responsibility and social equity. It's about choosing candles that not only light up your space but also contribute positively to the world.
When you choose Mandy & Co, you're supporting a brand that believes in thoughtful production and intentional design—one candle at a time.
An anecdote that I want to share here - Soy candles are a Gift that keeps on giving
Last Diwali, I gifted a close friend a set of our premium soy candles (as I knew already how she loves to light candles - ours or the commercial fragrance laden ones, she doesnt differentiate). Months later, she shared how lighting those candles became a nightly ritual, helping her unwind after hectic days. It's heartening to know that a simple gift can have such a lasting impact. Another beautiful detail she shared was that these candles no longer gave her a headache after being lit.
This underscores the idea that premium candles are not just products; they're experiences, memories, and moments of tranquility in our busy lives.
Incase , you would like to see what we gifter her, Im putting in the link
Vanilla candle - https://mandyandco.in/products/vanilla-soy-candle-double-wick-hand-poured-candle
Iced Cappucino candle - https://mandyandco.in/products/whipped-coffee-soy-candle