Creating Custom Candles for the Rubbos
We don’t do a one size fits all approach to custom candles around here. So when we started working with Casey and Donny Rubbo we wanted to create something unique to their story that fit the vision they had for their wedding at the Fox Hollow, in Westbury, New York.
His and hers scents
First, Casey gave us some direction for scents. She wanted something that smelled like the ocean. Donny liked vanilla scented candles. We wanted to create custom candles that would fit these requests, be in harmony with each other, and fit the autumnal season they got married in. To do this we tested about a dozen different scents.
Custom candle samples
Four sample scents were selected and sent to the couple for their final decision. They chose salt air, oud, and tonka for her scent and chai, spiced honey, and tonka for his scent. The scents they chose are now exclusive to the Rubbos — so they will truly remain a one of a kind wedding favor.
Choosing custom vessels
Next, we discussed wedding colors, fonts used in the stationary, flowers, and all the other details that bring a wedding together. We decided to focus on burgundy because the bouquets, linens, and wedding party all featured this autumnal color.
We also discussed using candle tins, so those who traveled for the wedding did not have to worry about them breaking on the way home. After a few weeks we found tins that were a perfect match.
Designing custom labels
Once we had vessels it was time to design labels. We went with gold to evoke the sunflowers found throughout the event. About six options were created that were sent to the bride and groom for review. Casey and Donny chose a simple “Mr. and Mrs. Rubbo” with the date and the scent notes.
Creating 157 custom candles
Now just a few weeks out from the wedding, it was time to crank out 146 custom candles for the confirmed guests (with a few extra in case TSA was a little rough with our bags). For this we just turned on our fall playlist and made candles every day for a week.
Are custom candles for weddings worth it?
In all, the entire process from original scent inspiration to candle making to setting the candles at every seat took about five months. And at the end of the night, no candles were left behind — we even saw one couple walk out with six candles. So we think it was worth it to create custom candle favors as unique as Donny and Casey.
Interested in custom candles for your wedding? Check out our custom candles page to get in touch — we’d love to work with you.
