Scandles is a wonderfully apt pun. The brand name, created by Sofia Cherneva, combines the sound of the English words "candles" and "scandal." But in reality, there's nothing scandalous about either the candles or the name. Both are products of creative ideas and a lot of hard work. Sofia is a lawyer by education, but after maternity leave, her desire to return to that profession wavered. So, after the birth of her daughter, Scandles was born too.
Sometimes the best ideas are born spontaneously – that's how Scandles by Sofia Cherneva came to be. The truth is, I started almost as a joke. I just wanted to get involved in something new. I stumbled upon a video of an Australian brand that made candles with jewelry inside. It inspired me. That's how my first series, Surprise Candles, came about. Each candle hides a small gift – a steel or silver piece of jewelry that reveals itself as the candle burns. Imagine the moment – a quiet evening, the scent of your favorite candle filling the room, and a surprise glinting in the melted wax... Sounds magical, doesn't it? But the truth is, when I started, I had no idea how deep and complex this industry is. Candles seem like a simple thing, but in fact, behind them lies science, art, and countless tests.
Why is quality most important?
Most standard candles are made from paraffin – a petroleum byproduct that is carcinogenic and harmful to both humans and the environment. I chose a different path. I work only with natural wax because I believe that a scent should not only smell good but also be clean, safe, and sustainable. In the beginning, it was difficult – endless reading, experiments, mistakes... Every detail is important: from the choice of wax to the precise wick size that guarantees even and long-lasting burning. I don't compromise. Every candle bearing my name is a product I fully believe in, and into which I have poured my heart and energy.
Feminine energy and the magic of hands
One of the most exciting moments in the development of Scandles was the launch of the workshops. These events are more than just making candles – they are a moment of connection, of creating with hands, of shared energy. I believe that feminine energy flows through the hands and that creativity is a way to recharge and connect with oneself. At the last workshop, my daughter was with me – she also made her own candle. That was a moment I will remember forever.
Scents that tell stories
Every scent in the collection has its own story. Some of them are customer favorites and never leave the catalog, for example, Brandied Pear – a scent loved by both ladies and gentlemen, which has become the brand's total bestseller. Over time, Scandles has grown, and today, in addition to beloved scented candles, the product range also includes home diffusers and car air fresheners. For me, scent is much more than just a fragrance – it's a memory, an emotion, and a mood that we carry with us every day. That's why I wanted to create products that bring comfort not only at home but also in the car, in the office – everywhere we spend time.
What's next?
Scandles is already a recognized brand, but I dream of more. This year, I want to expand into more physical locations and work with large retail chains. I'm preparing new collaborations, new projects – because inspiration never stops, and that's the greatest motivation.
I confess – I'm naturally impatient and don't like to meticulously perfect things. But candles taught me something different – patience, attention and care for detail, enjoyment of the process. I adore what I do. And I know that the best is yet to come.
