My Story

Hello! My name is Chelsea and I am the owner of Modern Love Candle Co.

Modern Love Candle Co. is a woman owned fragrance and candle small business that offers unique, signature blends styled with a vintage eclectic PNW vibe.

Ever since I can remember I have always wanted to be an entrepreneur and create something for others to enjoy. My journey with candle making started at a very young age; my grandfather was the owner of Yaley Candle Enterprises, and as kids we would receive candle making kits and visit his warehouse every year. I didn't think anything of it at the time but eventually around 25 years old I decided to try my hand at candle making again. At first it was just for fun, a creative outlet for me, but eventually over time I couldn't stop thinking of it as a little business. I unfortunately didn't have the time or drive to keep it going while also working, and put that dream on pause...

A couple years went by and I made some big life changes, I got married and moved from the Bay Area to Portland Oregon. I was feeling lost and unhappy in my 9-5 job, and at the end of 2021 after a personal family loss, I had the idea of making a remembrance candle. I found my supplies and in that moment I felt a sense of purpose, this was the initial spark I needed to start making candles and find my creativity again.

I came up with "Modern Love" from the great musical icon, David Bowie. He was one of my moms favorite artists and I am now one of his biggest fans. My mom passed away when I was 9, but I am forever grateful for her unconditional love and the introduction to my passion of candle making. One of my most adored scents is in honor of her influence on me, our beloved "Mama Mia" candle.

My candles are made with 100% soy wax, clean non-toxic fragrances and natural wood crackling wicks. I am proud to offer a sustainable candle recycle program, a seasonal subscription club, quarterly themed collections, and one-of-a-kind ceramic collabs with Molly.Wat Ceramics. I have recently added non-toxic linen/room sprays, 100% soy wax melts into the shop, and a new product (coming soon) reusable reed diffusers!

Modern Love Candle Co. is not only a small business, it's a personal journey that encompasses scent memories that are shared and connected with customers, family, friends and other makers; something you just can't find at any big box store.

Please enjoy these unique non-toxic vintage vibe candles, as much as I enjoyed creating them.    

 --With Love, Chelsea

Read more about me and my candle making journey here!