Wicks, Bags, and Banter: What Ethical Creation Really Looks Like
Today, we’re pulling back the curtain to reveal the behind-the-scenes story of our massage candle - an intimate collaboration shaped by remarkable women, each bringing their unique artistry to life.
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The Women Behind the Project
Karla – Our Brilliant Designer with Deadlines (and a Baby on the Way)
Every detail of Elan Skincare's visual identity has been touched by Karla’s creative magic. A multidisciplinary designer and soon-to-be mother of two, Karla has poured her heart into this project - all while preparing for her new baby’s arrival next week. Her dedication and talent make her an irreplaceable part of our journey.
Find out more about Karla
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Ania – An Illustrator and Talented Printer
Next up is Ania, a printing wizard and illustrator. Her studio in Woolwich, just a stone’s throw from ours, is where the magic of our hand-printed cotton bags happens. Using the screen-printing technique, she brings artisanal charm to every bag, making each one as unique as the candles they accompany.
Find out more about Ania
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Kasia – A Natural Skincare Champion
Then there’s Kasia. If you think juggling motherhood, running a small business, and pouring candles by hand sounds challenging, you’re right. Kasia’s resilience comes from a deep place—she’s a cancer survivor who channels her strength into everything she touches.
The candles are hand-poured in small batches, ensuring each one meets the highest standards of care and quality.
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The Journey of Creation
It’s been a journey of ideas, tests, tweaks, failures, and triumphs - all led by these incredible women. Crafting our massage candle was a test of perseverance. Over months of experimentation, we explored everything from formulations to wicks and an array of packaging options, from aluminium to ceramic clay. Ultimately, we found the perfect partner in a family-run ceramics studio in Poland, renowned for their exquisite fine porcelain.
This choice wasn’t just about aesthetics - it was about creating something timeless. This logo-free porcelain is designed to be reused, ensuring it lives on in your home long after the candle’s last flicker.
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A Commitment to Thoughtful Craftsmanship
At every step of this journey, we made intentional choices that align with our values. For our product leaflets, we selected recycled silk paper—an eco-friendly, recyclable material—produced in London.
Here’s the thing: we could have outsourced production to a factory. It would’ve been faster and cheaper. But that’s not who we are. By working with small-scale, skilled artisans, we created a product that tells a story of human connection and care. Every candle you hold represents hours of craftsmanship, collaboration, and a deep respect for the hands that made it.
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A Candle That’s More Than a Candle – A Celebration of Women
When you light this candle, you’re holding a piece of all the effort that went into making it. This isn’t just another product - it’s a symbol. A testament to what happens when women come together to create something beautiful.
It’s a call to celebrate yourself, take a moment to breathe, and let it become a part of your self-care ritual. Whether it becomes a soothing part of your evenings or a thoughtful gift for someone you love, you’re passing on a little bit of magic. This candle carries the spirit of resilience, collaboration, and joy.
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So, here’s to collaboration, creativity, and candles that feel like more than just wax and wicks. Here’s to women who make things happen—and to you for being part of the story.
Now, take a moment, light the candle, and let it remind you: You Are Worth Celebrating.