Becoming a Chandler: A Hands-On Workshop Experience at Candlefish
In 2018, on my second-ever solo trip, I found myself at Candlefish in Atlanta for a candle making class. Although this location has since closed, Candlefish still welcomes crafters in Charleston and Boston to create something meaningful with their own two hands.
For $60, I spent an hour and a half with experienced chandlers who walked us through the process of fragrance blending. Step by step, we explored top, mid, and dry notes to create two custom 9 oz candles that reflected our own scent preferences.
What stood out most to me that day was the people. The thing about solo travel is that for activities and excursions, you are almost always joined by a diverse group of people with whom you already have a common interest or thread. I was joined by people from all over the country and even a fun group of women from South Africa.
That moment taught me something I carry into every trip—leaning into the moment and connecting with those around me can turn the simplest activity into an unforgettable memory. Solo travel never has to be isolating, and finding community, even for a few hours, is such a gift.
As a bonus, attendees receive an exclusive 15% in-store discount on the day of the workshop and the option to ship candles if you’re not local.
Looking back on my experience at Candlefish, it wasn’t just about crafting candles—it was one of my earliest adult memories of learning how to create beautiful and memorable moments for myself. It was about challenging myself to do something new and connecting with people I might never have met otherwise.
