Candles have long held a special place in our hearts and homes, offering warmth, ambiance, and comfort in even the darkest of times. Beyond their practical uses, they’ve become a canvas for creativity and the expression of style.
Today, Black-owned candle companies are infusing the home fragrance world with unique scents inspired by our style and culture. By using sustainable materials sourced from our community, they are crafting products that feel – and smell – like home.
Read on to discover some of the brightest stars in Black home fragrance. We’re sure you’ll find your next favorite burn.
1. Candles 4 the Culture
Based in Atlanta, Candles 4 the Culture is a favorite among our editorial team. The brand crafts scents that have the familiarity of a 90s jam. You know that song we all grew up with that everybody sings along to at a party? That’s what C4C candles smell like.
Their Black and Bougie collection is a standout, combining familiar notes in unique and inviting ways. With names like Diamonds & Pearls and Forever My Lady, these 15 oz beauties will make you smile before your first light.
Be forewarned: they often sell out, and restocks go quickly, so sign up for alerts on future drops.
Bon Vie’s Best (scent we love): Diamonds and Pearls
Notes: Spice, Vanilla, Tonka Bean, & Wood
Pricing: $49
2. Harlem Candle Co.
Teri Johnson’s Harlem Candle Company is a New York stalwart committed to celebrating the rich culture and history of the iconic neighborhood. From fabulous candles to perfumes and accessories, each creation is infused with a reverence for the past.
With names like Ellington and Josephine, Harlem Candle Co’s offerings invoke memories of a bygone era that deserves to still be celebrated.
Take the brand’s scent quiz to discover a fragrance you’ll enjoy.
Bon Vie’s Best: After Dark
Notes: Golden Saffron, Oak, & Oud
Pricing: $48
3. La Boticá
Multi-disciplinary design studio and fragrance house La Boticá has mastered the art of combining splendid olfactory knowledge and modern design. Founded by Afro-Dominican art director and photographer Dawn Marie West, the brand excels in both form and function.
Nestled in handcrafted travertine stone vessels, you’ll discover candles like Flor de Selva and Nolita 96, which are influenced by the creator’s own life journey. The design features a glass liner, making the main vessel a reusable, and thus sustainable, work of art.
Bon Vie’s Best: Flor de Selva
Notes: Orange, Pimento, & White Cedar
Pricing: $135
4. Joe + Monroe
Founded by an IT Project Manager & mom, Joe+Monroe is a labor of love with a sustainable focus. Joyaa, the chandler of this brand, named the company in honor of her grandfather and daughter. Since her foray into candlemaking, the creator has focused on sourcing eco-friendly materials that prioritize wellness.
Each candle is individually poured and paraben & phthalate free. The use of natural essential oil results in a clean burn that is healthy for the customer & better for the environment.
Bon Vie’s Best: Lavandin Santal
Notes: Amber, Tobacco Leaf, & Vanilla
Pricing: $42
5. Laguna Candles
A journey that started as a search for clean-burning candles in 2001 has evolved into the powerhouse Laguna Candle customers know today. From its own catalog of classic scents, to creating white label fragrances for big brands, Laguna has claimed its place among the best Black-owned candle brands.
The company’s commitment to sustainability and wellness has remained a hallmark over the years. Each candle is phthalate-free, cleaning burning, and cruelty free.
Bon Vie’s Best: Soul Searching
Notes: Palo Santo, White Honey, & Pear
Pricing: $34.95
Black-owned candle companies stand out as beacons of authenticity and soulful expression. These visionary entrepreneurs are not just creating candles – they’re crafting experiences, one flame at a time.
The next time you light a candle, think of the story behind it & the hands that poured it. We hope this list inspires you to add a little black girl magic to your collection. Happy lighting!
What Black-owned candle brands do you adore? Share your favorite scents below.
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