Finding the perfect candle can transform a space. Whether you're seeking a calming lavender scent for your bedroom or a vibrant citrus fragrance for your kitchen, the right candle sets the mood. Austin, a city known for its eclectic spirit, boasts a diverse range of candle stores, each offering unique scents and styles. This guide explores 15 of the best candle stores in Austin, helping you discover your next favorite fragrance.
Top Picks for Candle Lovers in Austin
This list caters to various tastes and preferences, from locally made artisan candles to well-known brands.
Locally Made & Artisan Candles
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The Austin Candle Company: This local favorite offers a wide variety of scents inspired by the Texas landscape. Expect unique blends using natural ingredients and sustainable practices. Their candles are known for their strong throw (scent diffusion) and long burn time. They also frequently offer seasonal scents reflecting Austin's vibrant events.
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Bluebonnet Botanicals: Specializing in natural and soy-based candles, Bluebonnet Botanicals uses essential oils and locally sourced botanicals. Their minimalist packaging and commitment to sustainability appeal to eco-conscious consumers. Their candles make excellent gifts for those seeking naturally fragrant and ethically sourced products.
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Texas Candle Co.: As the name suggests, this store is dedicated to capturing the spirit of Texas through its candle fragrances. Expect bold, distinctive scents reflecting the state's diverse landscape, from wildflowers to mesquite wood. They also offer larger container sizes, perfect for filling larger spaces with fragrance.
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Barton Springs Soap Company: While known for their soaps, Barton Springs also offers a lovely selection of candles crafted with natural ingredients and essential oils. Their focus on natural scents aligns with their overall brand ethos of providing quality, naturally-derived products for the body and home. They often feature seasonal scents using local ingredients.
Big Brands & Boutiques
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Anthropologie: This popular lifestyle store carries a curated collection of candles from various brands, offering a mix of styles and scents to suit different tastes. They are known for their stylish packaging and trend-focused selections. You can often find unique collaborations and limited-edition scents here.
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West Elm: West Elm provides a similar experience to Anthropologie, offering a well-curated selection of candles that complement their home furnishings. Their offerings often emphasize modern aesthetics and minimalist designs. They tend to favor cleaner, less overpowering scents.
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Crate & Barrel: Another high-end home goods store, Crate & Barrel offers a selection of high-quality candles with a focus on elegant scents and sophisticated packaging. Expect a more classic and timeless aesthetic. They often carry candles from established and well-regarded brands.
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Target: While not exclusively a candle store, Target offers a surprisingly diverse and affordable selection of candles catering to a wide range of preferences. They are a great option for finding budget-friendly options and seasonal scents. They frequently collaborate with designers for unique offerings.
Specialty & Niche Stores
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Uncommon Objects: This unique shop is more than just a candle store; it's a treasure trove of quirky and handcrafted gifts. Their candle selection reflects this unique style, offering unusual scents and handcrafted containers. This store is great for finding truly one-of-a-kind gifts and candles.
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The Home Depot: While primarily a home improvement store, The Home Depot surprisingly offers a solid selection of candles in various sizes, scents, and styles. These are usually very affordable and great for practical needs. Their selection tends towards more classic and straightforward fragrances.
Online Retailers with Austin Presence
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Etsy: Numerous Austin-based candle makers sell their creations on Etsy, offering a vast selection of unique and handcrafted candles. This platform allows you to discover small-batch candles and support local artisans. Look for shops with excellent reviews and detailed product descriptions.
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Amazon: Amazon offers a wide selection of candles from various brands, including those with Austin origins or distribution. This is convenient for price comparison and ease of ordering, but may lack the personalized experience of a local store.
Exploring Beyond Candles: Stores with Notable Candle Selections
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Local bookstores: Many independent bookstores in Austin feature a small but carefully selected collection of candles that complement their atmosphere. These are often curated to evoke a sense of relaxation and literary inspiration.
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Home décor shops: Several smaller home décor shops throughout the city often include candles as part of their product offerings. These are a great opportunity to discover uniquely styled candles that fit the shop's aesthetic.
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Farmers' markets: Check local farmers' markets for artisan candle makers showcasing their creations. These markets offer the chance to meet the creators, learn about their processes, and discover unique, locally-sourced scents.
Choosing the Right Candle for You
Consider these factors when selecting your perfect candle:
- Scent Profile: Do you prefer floral, fruity, woody, spicy, or something else?
- Scent Throw: How strongly do you want the scent to fill the room?
- Burn Time: How long do you need the candle to last?
- Container: Do you prefer a simple jar, a decorative vessel, or something else?
- Wax Type: Soy wax is a popular, eco-friendly choice, while paraffin wax is more widely available and affordable.
This comprehensive guide provides a starting point for your candle-shopping adventures in Austin. Happy scent-finding!
