Finding the perfect candle can transform a space, setting the mood and adding a touch of personality. Austin, a city known for its vibrant culture and eclectic spirit, boasts a diverse range of candle stores, each offering unique scents and styles. Whether you're searching for a sophisticated soy candle, a whimsical hand-poured creation, or a rustic, natural scent, this guide highlights the 15 best candle stores in Austin, ensuring you discover your next olfactory obsession. This guide covers various candle types, price points, and store aesthetics, helping you find the ideal candle for your needs and preferences. We'll delve into what makes each store special and why they've earned a spot on this coveted list.
Top Picks for Candle Lovers in Austin
This selection focuses on diverse offerings, from locally-made artisan candles to well-known brands. We consider factors like scent variety, quality of ingredients, store ambiance, and customer reviews in our selections.
Locally Made & Artisan Candles
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The Austin Candle Co.: Known for its commitment to using natural soy wax and essential oils, The Austin Candle Co. offers a range of sophisticated scents inspired by the Texas landscape. They prioritize sustainability and ethical sourcing, making them a popular choice for eco-conscious consumers. Their candles boast long burn times and captivating fragrance throw.
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Blue Moon Emporium: This enchanting shop offers a curated selection of hand-poured candles, alongside other magical goods. Their candles are often infused with crystals or herbs, adding an extra layer of mystique and intention to the burning experience. Each candle tells a story, reflecting the shop's unique personality.
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Paddywax Candle Bar: This interactive store allows customers to create their own custom candles. Choose from a wide selection of scents, waxes, and containers to design a personalized candle that perfectly reflects your taste. It’s a fun and unique experience.
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Otherland: While not solely a candle store, Otherland's presence in Austin showcases their exceptional range of luxury candles. Their sophisticated scents and elegant packaging make them a perfect gift or a treat for yourself.
Specialty & Unique Boutiques
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Uncommon Objects: This eclectic home goods store features a curated selection of candles from various artisans. Expect to find unusual scents and unique vessels, adding an artistic element to your candle selection.
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Elizabeth Anthony: Known for its high-end home decor and accessories, Elizabeth Anthony offers a selection of luxury candles from established brands. The store's sophisticated atmosphere makes it an ideal place to find a special candle for a gift or a personal indulgence.
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Parts & Labor: This lifestyle store blends home goods, clothing, and other lifestyle items, including carefully selected candles that fit its overall aesthetic. Expect interesting scents and unique packaging.
Big Box & Department Stores with Strong Candle Selections
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Anthropologie: Anthropologie's Austin location boasts a stylish collection of candles, ranging from playful to sophisticated. They frequently collaborate with different artisans, offering a rotating selection of unique scents and designs.
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Nordstrom: A reliable source for a variety of high-quality brands, Nordstrom’s candle section offers a wide range of scents, from familiar favorites to lesser-known luxury brands. Their selection caters to diverse preferences.
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Target: While not exclusively a candle store, Target's selection offers affordable and trendy candle options. This is a good place to discover new scents and brands without breaking the bank.
Candles with a Focus on Specific Scents or Experiences
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Cedar & Salt: While specializing in natural home goods, Cedar & Salt carries a selection of candles with a focus on natural and botanical scents. Expect earthy and calming aromas, perfect for creating a relaxing atmosphere.
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Flower Child: This bohemian-inspired boutique features candles that align with their overall aesthetic. Expect floral and light, airy scents that complement their clothing and accessories.
Online Retailers with Austin Delivery/Pickup
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Homesick Candles: While not a physical store in Austin, Homesick offers candles inspired by specific places, including scents evocative of Texas. They offer online ordering and delivery options, making it easy to get your chosen scent delivered to your door.
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Diptyque: Famous for its luxurious candles, Diptyque can be purchased online or at select retailers in Austin. They’re a classic choice for those seeking sophisticated and high-quality candles.
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Yankee Candle: A well-established brand with a wide selection, Yankee Candle offers a range of scents and price points. While not exclusively Austin-based, their candles are readily available online or at various retailers in the city.
Finding Your Perfect Austin Candle: A Buyer's Guide
This guide is designed to help you navigate the diverse world of Austin candle stores. Consider the following factors when making your selection:
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Scent Profile: Do you prefer floral, woody, spicy, fresh, or sweet scents? Experiment and find what best complements your personal taste and home environment.
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Wax Type: Soy wax is a popular choice for its clean burn and natural properties. Other options include paraffin wax and beeswax, each with its own characteristics.
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Burn Time: Look for candles with a long burn time to maximize your enjoyment and value.
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Price Point: Austin offers candles at various price points, from affordable options to luxury selections. Set a budget before you start shopping.
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Vessel Design: The candle container can add to the overall aesthetic appeal. Choose a vessel that complements your home decor.
Conclusion: Light Up Your Life with Austin's Best Candles
Austin's candle scene offers a vast and exciting array of options. From locally-made artisan candles to well-known luxury brands, there's a perfect candle waiting to be discovered. Use this guide to embark on your own scented journey and find the candle that best illuminates your space and enhances your mood. Remember to support local businesses whenever possible, and enjoy the transformative power of a beautifully scented candle.
