glow: The Glow of a City

Charleston Candle Co. just turned ten. If you've ever lit one of their candles at a dinner party or given one as a thank-you, you've been part of the story. Founder Kristen Schwiers says it started with “a passion for creativity and a deep love for Charleston.” A decade later, the scents in the original Signature and Seasonal collections remain "largely unchanged from the very beginning," with just three additions along the way. Some things you get right the first time.

The regulars who keep it going

For Schwiers, the best part is the people. "Our customers are truly one of our greatest blessings,” she says. One family, now calling London home, stops by every time they’re in town to stock up on favorites before heading back. "Stories like these remind me why I started this business in the first place, and keep me going on the tough days.”

Two candles, two ways to love a city

To mark the milestone, the shop launched two new candles. Schwiers says the Charleston candle "captures the feeling of a leisurely stroll through downtown on a perfect day, blending coastal and floral notes to evoke the city's unique charm." It's compact, too, made for visitors who want to "carry a piece of the city's magic home with them."

Locals call Charleston the Holy City, and this candle is for them. Schwiers describes the scent as mysterious and musky, a nod to the churches that define the skyline. "Charleston holds a special place in the hearts of those who know it best, which is why we created this candle as an insider's tribute to the city they love.”

A fresh look Downtown

Schwiers teamed up with local design firm Public Regard to reimagine the downtown flagship. The goal was "a space that feels both cozy and sophisticated, one that invites customers to linger, explore, and find their next favorite scent." There's more room to browse now, and the space still feels warm and personal, just with a little more elbow room.

Make one yourself

Feeling crafty? The shop runs small group candle-making classes for up to 12, and everyone goes home with two candles they blended themselves. Schwiers says it's "the perfect opportunity to connect with our customers and create a cozy, memorable experience they can share with their loved ones." Grab a few friends and pick your scents.

What's next

While nothing's set in stone, Schwiers admits that "expanding to new corners of the city is an idea that's hard to shake, especially when every 'for rent' sign in downtown Charleston seems to call my name…" Whatever comes next, the heart of it stays the same. "We love bottling that feeling, and we hope to keep doing so for years to come.”

charlestoncandleco.com.