Zaleski Candle Works is located inside the big red quilt barn in the center of Zaleski. This barn hosts the Anvil Quilt Block and is part of the Vinton County Quilt Barn Trail.
Nothing says home sweet home like a candle burning and no one makes candles quite like Susan Tripp at Zaleski Candle Works. Tripp’s handmade candles burn far longer than most mass produced candles purchased in stores and the scent lasts longer too.
Many people will associate Susan with Wicker Cabin Gifts, a gift shop she operated before moving to her current location in Zaleski in March 2010. It’s hard to miss given that Zaleski Candle Works is located in a big red barn in the center of town. That barn also happens to be a host site for one of our quilt blocks, making it one of my favorite quilt barn sites.
Inside you will find a space packed with handmade candles and tarts plus some home decor items, tart warmers and fresh honey. With over 150 candle scents to choose from, Tripp literally has something for everyone.
Popular scents right now include Lilac and Buttercream Snickerdoodle but with a plethora of other scents to choose from the favorites often change with the season. Tripp is even preparing to add a new line of men’s scents. Some will be similar to popular cologne scents but other scents will include Hayride, Beer, Tobacco, Leather and Nag Champa which has an earthy scent combined with juniper, patchouli and vanilla.
If that’s not enough, she also sells fresh honey, with the comb and without.
Tripp likened candlemaking to a kind of aromatherapy. “I don’t know how to explain it but pouring candles all day just puts you in a better mood,” she explained. “I feel better doing this.”
Tripp also loves to meet new people so stop by her shop and check out the selection of candles, stuff for your home and maybe even take home some fresh Zaleski honey. Store hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 12-4 p.m. Sunday.
Remember, Tripp is available for candle parties and custom candle orders too.
Zaleski Candle Works is located near the intersection of St. Rt. 278 and St. Rt. 671, at 107 Commercial Square. Call 596-7054 for information.