Meet The Member - The Scented Essence
The Scented Essence
We caught up with Cheryl from The Scented Essence to learn more about her journey into making non-toxic candles.
We’re delighted to have you as part of We Are Harpenden! Could you tell us a bit about your journey? How did you get started with hand-pouring candles?
My candle-making journey started during lockdown when I was searching for something creative and calming to do at home. I’ve always loved scented candles, but I became more conscious of the ingredients used in many mass-produced ones after starting candle making and experiencing a health scare. Discovering how many contain harmful toxins and irritantsreally sparked my mission to create candles that were luxurious, beautifully scented, and completely non-toxic. What started as a personal passion quickly turned into The Scented Essence, and now I get to share my love for luxury, sustainable and non-toxic candles with others.
What inspired you to turn your passion for candles into a business? Was there a particular moment or idea that sparked it?
There was definitely a turning point, and I remember the moment so clearly. I was sitting there, contemplating my options, after the concentrated fragrances I had been working with made me so sick that I had almost given up hope. But something inside me said, “No!” I refused to let this be an obstacle. I wasn’t going to give up on my dream. Instead, I was determined to find cleaner, safer fragrances and a way to make it work. More than that, I wanted to share this option with others—especially those like me who struggle with asthma, allergies, or sensitivities to chemicals and fragrances.
Creating scented candles is such an art, how do you go about choosing the fragrances and designs for your collections?
Each candle I create is mostly inspired by, nature, memories, or places that feel special to me. I spend a lot of time researching and testing fragrance combinations, ensuring they tell a story and create an immersive experience when lit. The design process is equally important—I love using pastel-coloured jars, gold detailing, and beautiful, eco-friendly packaging to make each candle feel like a little moment of luxury before it’s even burned.
What’s been the most rewarding part of running your own candle-making business?
Hearing from customers who say my candles have become part of their daily or evening routines. I love receiving their photos of the candles too. Whether it’s winding down after a long day, creating a welcoming and cosy home, or gifting them to a loved one. Knowing that something I’ve hand-poured is bringing comfort and joy to someone’s life is incredibly fulfilling.
Are there any misconceptions people might have about candles or the process of making them?
Absolutely! One of the biggest misconceptions is that all candles are made the same way. Many people don’t realise that mass-produced candles often contain paraffin wax and synthetic fragrances with hidden toxins. Another common one is that making candles is “easy” and I had the same misconception (before embarking on my own candle-making journey) but in reality, it takes a lot of testing to get the perfect mixture of the perfect wick, wax, and fragrance ratio to ensure a clean burn and great scent throw.
Your candles create such a cosy atmosphere, what’s your favourite scent to work with, and why?
That’s a tough one because I love them all for different reasons! But if I had to choose just one, my Palm Garden candle holds a special place in my heart. It was one of the first scents that I absolutely loved and decided it would feature in my signature collection. The fresh greenery and sweet orange blossom notes remind me of Mediterranean summers, bringing a natural vibrancy that feels uplifting and serene at the same time.
Running a small business takes dedication, but everyone needs downtime. What hobbies or activities do you enjoy outside of candle-making?
I love spending time in nature, it’s one of my biggest sources of inspiration. Whether it’s a walk through the woods or a trip to a waterfall, stream or beach, I always feel recharged when I’m outdoors. I also enjoy exploring new coffee spots, brunch with friends, reading, and, when I get the chance, traveling to new places!
What do you think makes your candles unique, and what kind of experience do you hope they bring to your customers?
My candles combine luxury, sustainability, and safety—without compromising on aesthetics. Hand-poured with non-toxic, eco-friendly ingredients, they feature fresher, less artificial-smelling fragrances for a more natural, true-to-life scent experience. Each candle comes with a wildflower seed paper dust cover to encourage reuse, and every order helps plant a tree through Ecologi. The goal is to create more than just a candle—it’s about delivering a sensory experience that’s luxurious and mindful while being good for both you and the planet.
Are there any exciting new scents or products you’re working on?
This year, I’m expanding my candle scent range and working on two dedicated collections—a Spring Collection inspired by fresh florals and uplifting notes, and an Autumn Collection with warm, earthy, and spiced fragrances. I’ll also be changing up the signature collection ever so slightly as Honey Pumpkin will now feature in the autumn collection. I can’t wait to share these with my customers!
And finally, when you’re not busy pouring candles, where’s your favourite spot in Harpenden to relax or find inspiration?
I love spending time in and around Rothamsted Park—it’s such a peaceful space to clear my mind and get inspired. I also enjoy exploring independent cafés and restaurants in town; I absolutely love the Silver Palate nothing beats a good cup of coffee and people-watching!
Tell us a fun fact about yourself.
I have a habit of rewatching my favourite comfort shows instead of starting new ones—there’s just something so relaxing about it! Friends is one of my all-time favourites to “have on in the background”, and no matter how many times I’ve seen it, I still laugh at the same jokes like it’s the first time.