26/04/24

Introducing Dundee Candle Works' Eco-Friendly Scented Candles and Reed Diffusers

31/03/23

Doctor Creates Scottish Home Fragrance Business During Pandemic

Dundee Candle Works is the creation of NHS doctor, Katie Watson. The concept was borne from the need for a creative outlet and distraction as events unfurled in 2020 whilst working as a critical care doctor during the covid pandemic.

As a form of escapism, Katie decided to see whether a hobby could become a successful small business with Dundee Candle Works. She had always adored the comfort and tranquillity of natural home fragrance and so this seemed an excellent fit. She has adopted Dundee as her home, and is proud to live in the newly rediscovered city.

Keen to create a modern Scottish brand, Katie could think of nothing better than basing her business around the East of Scotland. It was hard not to be inspired by locations such as the famous DJCAD (Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art and Design) and the Kengo Kuma designed V&A Dundee.

Katie also wished to fashion uniquely scented Scottish products, inspired by her surroundings. Current popular scents include Marmalade & Lime after the famous citrus preserve, and Firs & Fairways; influenced by the wonderful local golf courses (e.g. St Andrews and Carnoustie) with their rich greenery. All products, now including luxury sized reed diffusers and gift sets, are made with care in small batches in her workshop in Dundee. Coconut wax is used in the candles for its clean and even burn and low environmental impact. All Dundee Candle Works products are vegan, cruelty-free and come packaged in typically Scottish biodegradable jute bags.

Katie has been both delighted and overwhelmed by the initial response, with her products currently stocked in many well regarded Scottish outlets, including several 5-star hotel and visitor attractions, and cannot wait to see what the future holds for her new business.