If you’ve known me longer than five minutes, you already know I’ve always been a maker. In fact, back in the day people used to call me the “Native Martha” — as in Martha Stewart. (We’re basically birthday twins. She’s August 3rd. I’m August 2nd. Coincidence? I think not.)

For years — both through Wachiay Friendship Centre and volunteer work with Aboriginal Head Start Preschool — as well as with my kids and friends - I ran craft nights, youth programs, family workshops… basically anything that involved culture, creativity, and a group of people laughing around a table. If it involved making things with our hands, I was in. If it involved bringing people together, even better.

So launching Wicked Candle classes felt less like “a new business idea” and more like returning to my natural habitat.

The Real Inspiration

Here’s a fun fact that sounds fake but is 100% true: the part of your brain that controls anxiety literally can’t stay activated when you’re in a creative headspace.

So every time you doodle, pour wax, blend fragrances, or just play — even if you’re not making a masterpiece — your brain is basically forced to turn the anxiety switch off. Creativity clocks in, anxiety clocks out.

Honestly, in today’s world, we all need more of that (creative activities should qualify as mental healthcare!)

I named it “Wicked” as a playful double meaning — “wicked” as in excellent, fun, and a little witchy… and “wick-ed” as in, literally wicking your candle. It captures the spirit of the class perfectly: creative, uplifting, and full of good energy.

The Vibe

These classes are designed to feel cozy, fun, and a little magical — like the adult version of an after-school craft club, but with better lighting, better ambiance.

You’ll mix scents, pour candles, laugh with your friends (or strangers who will feel like friends pretty fast), and leave smelling better than when you arrived.

The “Keep One, Gift One” Chaos Theory

One idea I loved from the start was making two candles:
One for yourself — your signature candle.
And one for someone you care about.

This does two things:

1. It helps you figure out what you like.

2. It tests how well you know your favourite people.

Is this a candle or a personality quiz? Hard to say.

The goal wasn’t to stress anyone out — it was to add a layer of connection. Creativity is powerful on its own, but when you make something with someone else in mind… that becomes a whole other kind of medicine. A handmade gift hits different. It carries intention. It carries care. It also carries the bragging rights of “I made this especially for you!”

And no, it’s not mandatory. If you want to keep both candles? I am not here to judge your self-care choices.

Types of Classes - Choose Your Vibe:

Afternoon classes are the “soft life” version.
Think chill, daylight energy. People fresh off lunch. Friends who want something fun and low-pressure. Folks who prefer hanging out before the witching hour. It’s relaxed, creative, and perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy a calm reset in the middle of their day.

Evening classes? Those have a little spice.
Not wild, but definitely more “social ladies’ night” than “midday crafting.” The music hits different when the sun goes down. This is where the bubbly and charcuterie come out. It turns the whole thing into a mini event. Not wild, but definitely more fun-forward. The kind of night where strangers become friends and everyone decides their candle smells like absolute perfection. It’s cozy, it’s vibey...

Both are fun. Both are creative. Both will de-stress you.

The only difference is whether you like your candle therapy with afternoon sunshine or evening ambience.

Why It Matters

At the end of the day, these classes aren’t just about candles. They’re about letting yourself play. Laugh. Unwind. Make something beautiful. Share something meaningful. Or just escape your house for two hours without having to put on heels.

If you’ve been craving a night out that fills your cup — or your jar of wax — this is the one.

I can’t wait to see what you create. And if you walk out feeling a little more relaxed, a little more inspired, and a little less anxious… well, that’s the whole point.