Red Raven Candle Co. didn’t start in a sterile lab; it started with a wild idea and a kitchen that I’m pretty sure still has wax splatters on the ceiling. I wanted a candle that didn’t just sit there—I wanted it to perform. I wanted layered wax, dessert-inspired toppings, and scents that make you stop in your tracks.

Getting that "whipped" wax look, though? That was a saga. Let’s just say there were several moments where I looked like I’d lost a fight with a giant frosting bag. It took more trials than I care to admit to get that perfect, fluffy peaks-of-perfection look you see today. Now, I’ve mastered the art so you don’t have to deal with the wax-splattered floorboards. You’re welcome!

We are a proud Veteran-owned business. As a U.S. Army Veteran wife, I know a thing or two about grit (and coffee). My husband—the actual Vet in the house—is my partner in this candle-making madness. We’ve traded military drills for artisan pours, though we still bring that "mission-ready" focus to every single jar.

We also have a "Chief Scent Officer" in training: our grandson. He’s still a tiny toddler, but he’s already a pro at smelling the new batches and giving his stamp of approval. Seeing him light up over a new scent is a constant reminder of why I do this: to create those little "vibe shifts" that make a house feel like a home.

To us, a candle is a conversation piece. It’s the "where did you get that?" at a dinner party, the gift that actually gets used, and the mood-setter for your "me-time." Whether it’s a surprise reveal candle or a decorative wax melt, every piece is hand-poured with intention, personality, and a whole lot of Illinois soul.

While we love shipping boxes of joy across the country, we are Pawnee locals through and through! We also own Kalena’s Closet, our brick-and-mortar consignment shop right here in Pawnee, IL.

We keep a curated selection of favorites on the shelves for you to grab on the go, but since most of our work is custom and made-to-order, the website is your best bet for the full "menu." If you’re local, you can skip the shipping fees and select "Store Pickup" at checkout. I’ll pour your candles, and you can swing by the shop to grab them once they're ready!

Thank you for supporting our small business and letting Red Raven be the light (and the scent) in your favorite space.