lumen candles

lumen candles: a wick history

Hey! I’m Tricia, a life-long maker. I never meant to become candle obsessed—but here we are, and I’m loving every minute of it. Originally a Midwest girl, I’ve proudly called Charlotte home for the past 16 years. What started as a curiosity of candle making (and a serious need for clean-burning options) quickly turned into a full-blown business after lots of research, testing and wax-covered countertops.

At lumenCLT, I handcraft candles using only high-quality, non-toxic components—nothing you’ll find on a big box store shelf. These are elevated, luxury scents made with purpose and passion.

When I’m not busy pouring candles and testing new scents, you’ll probably find me hanging out with my two rescue pups, crossing things off a never-ending to-do list, or catching up with friends over a good cup of coffee.

Come smell what I’ve been working on—you’ll understand the obsession.

Exclusively made in Charlotte, NC

Hand-poured lumen candles are made in small batches in Charlotte, NC. All oils used by lumen are void of carcinogens, mutagens, and toxins, are phthalate-free, and are made without ingredients on the California Prop 65 list. Candles burn clean against the jar without wasted wax.

Why soy? Soy wax is vegetable wax made from the oils of a soybean plant! Soy wax has a slow burn, meaning your candle will last longer than some other waxes. Many store-bought candles contain paraffin wax - which is a petroleum-based product. Soy wax candles are non-toxic and last up to 50% longer than a paraffin wax candle.

For a long-lasting candle:

Be sure to trim your wick(s) before you relight it (yes, every time!). You just need 1/4” - 1/2” of length on the wick before lighting. Removing the carbon top or extra-long wick length that forms many times after a long burn will ensure your candle burns evenly and reduces soot/smoke.

The first time you light a candle, make sure you have it lit long enough for the wax “pool” on the surface of the candle to burn all the way to the jar edges. This could take a couple hours, but will prevent tunneling of the wax.

The recommended burn time is 3-4 hours per burn. Only burn candles on a level, fire-resistant surface. Discontinue use when 1/2” of wax remains. Keep candles away from children, pets and sunlight.