Candeur’s beginnings: from the first candle to the shop
By Brenda · Nosy Be · Published on · Updated on
I started Candeur Malagasy at home in Nosy Be. My first candles taught me to work with wax, oils and vanilla, before the shop and today’s collection.
The resources I had, the desire to make
After my studies, I was looking for my place. In Nosy Be, most jobs are in hospitality; being shy, I could not see myself there. I chose candles: wax, wick and fragrance, a tangible project in my hands.
Progress I can see and smell
The first feedback helped me. In my trials, the flame became steadier and the vanilla more noticeable, depending on the room and draughts. Its warm, woody profile, discovered at the Hell-Ville market, remained my guiding thread.
What constraints taught me
My beginnings brought me face to face with the realities of working in Madagascar:
- The pace of supplies : I learned to organise my work around available materials and seasons.
- Heat and humidity : they test how waxes and fragrances hold up.
- Power cuts : you learn to work differently.
- Packaging and transport : keep it simple, sturdy and local where possible.
These constraints taught me to organise small batches and choose materials and formulas that I can explain.
Trying wax, then oils
I adjusted the combination of wax + oil. In my trials, Nosy Be beeswax gave a steadier flame. I then explored oils with or without a flame: jojoba seemed subtle enough to let the vanilla take centre stage.
The practices that became my method
- Locally selected materials when available and when their origin is known.
- Chosen formulas : understand the role of every ingredient.
- Small-batch trials : observe, adjust, try again.
- Adapting to the climate : products designed with the heat in mind.
Where I am today
Today, my Madirokely shop brings together scented creations, vanilla pods and spices: ingredients to discover in Nosy Be and fragrances to enjoy again at home.
From my workshop to your choice
This story looks back at my beginnings.
What followed those first steps: Why Candeur Malagasy · From candles to oils: extending the fragrance
Discover Candeur Malagasy sizes and prices, then come and choose at the shop near Tatie Chris in Madirokely. To reserve products or arrange delivery to your hotel in the areas served, write to me on WhatsApp.