Rachel Zanders recently took what was once her creative outlet full-time and even opened her first brick-and-mortar location. Shop her safe and sustainable candles in Easton.
Rachel Zanders
Owner / Candle Maker
Where did your love for candles come from?
I love burning candles, but often found myself overwhelmed by the strong (and usually sweet) scents. I wanted a candle I could burn without overpowering or offending guests... enough scent to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. After researching, I realized how toxic those strong candles were and was determined to make something that is safe for humans, pets and the environment and smells amazing.
I started Easton Candle Company while working full-time as a merchandise planner in the corporate retail world, so it became my creative outlet from the daily grind of crunching numbers.
Describe the candle-making process.
Sustainability is important to me, so all my supplies are sourced from the East Coast. Every candle is made with 100 percent U.S.-grown soy wax, cotton wicks and a blend of fine fragrance and essential oils. The fragrance oils are paraben- and phthalate-free and meet IFRA (International Fragrance Association) criteria for safety. Once the wax is melted, fragrance is added and the wax is poured into the jarsto cool overnight. It’s important to keep the wick centered so the candle performs with a clean, even burn. After they are cooled, I clean the jars of excess wax and add the labels.
Tell us a little bit about the journey to opening Easton Candle Company’s brick-and-mortar location!
I started Easton Candle Company in 2016 by selling to friends and family and online. I acquired a few wholesale accounts over the years and decided to take my business full-time in September 2021. This allowed me the opportunity and time to sign up for local events (Garlic Fest, Bacon Fest, Easton Winter Village). The success of having an in-person presence gave me the confidence to pursue a brick-and-mortar location.
My number one question was “Do you have a store?” and now I can reply “Yes!” It’s been so wonderful interacting with customers and putting a face to the brand.
I also moved my studio into the back of the store, so everything is made and sold in the same location.
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What can shoppers expect to find in the store?
There are three sizes of candles: 4 ounce, 8 ounce and 16 ounce, along with wax melts and reed diffusers. I also offer gift items, such as matches/match holders, greeting cards, soap and bath bombs sourced from fellow small-business makers.
What’s the overall vibe like?
The store is an extension of the branding. My mother-in-law and I did everything—painting, building furniture and decorating. The smallest details came together perfectly to provide shoppers with a cozy environment. Some of my favorite details are the original exposed brick and beams, a sewing machine table that belonged to my great-grandmother and the countertop found in an old barn in New Jersey. We removed the shelves from the countertop and turned them into a light fixture above it!
Is there something that readers may be surprised to hear that you offer?
I make custom favors for weddings, gifts and events.
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What is your most popular candle?
Cereal Milk is the most popular candle and is available year round. It’s a delicious blend of sweet cream, vanilla and cinnamon. It’s been a part of my assortment since 2016.
How often do your offerings change?
I change out seasonal scents four times a year in addition to four year-round scents. Occasionally there are special candles available aligning with holidays, such as Valentine’s Day and Mother’s Day.
What are some of your favorite candle varieties for spring/summer?
Rabbit’s Garden is a personal favorite. It’s a unique blend of earthy scents—mint, basil and clementine. It was created in honor of my pet rabbits (you can also spot rabbit figurines throughout the store). Looking forward to summer scents, my favorite is Golden Hour. You know that feeling when you’re watching the sun set after a long day at the beach? This scent captures that moment with warm notes of amber and sandalwood.
117 N. 3rd St., Easton | eastoncandleco.com
Published as "Get the Goods" in the May 2022 edition of Lehigh Valley Style magazine
