According to thefreedictionary.com, the definition of a chandler is:
chan·dler
n.
1. One that makes or sells candles.
2. A retail dealer in specified goods or equipment: a ship chandler

Referring to the first definition, a chandler, these days, is more specifically known as a candlemaker. It seems easy enough to be called a chandler. But, those in the field, that use this title, handle it with care.

I love candles. If you would have entered my bedroom in high school, you would have remembered seeing oodles of candles. Yes, I used the word oodles. To take it further, what you would have remembered about my candles is that each one was unique. Not the normal, plain candles you see everywhere.

Candles are a fantastic way to bring style, ambiance, and, of course, mask aromas of your stinky family. Admit it. Your family stinks. When your kids come inside from playing outside all day or your husband… (Well, men just have to exist to be smelly.), the term, “You smell like a dog,” is not an expression for people who smell good, and you know you have told that to your family.

It was no surprise to my family, when I started creating candles. I made my first one, which I still have and would never burn. From then on, I was hooked. I began making so many candles that my husband demanded, “Either start selling them or I’m throwing them in the trash.” I decided to start selling them, but I wanted to do it the right way. I take pride and care in my candlemaking.

Candlemaking is a serious business. If made wrong or used improperly, there are serious safety consequences. No one wants a burned house or a faulty candle that doesn’t work or could harm someone. I joined the IGCA (International Guild of Candle Artisans), which is a group of candlemakers who pledge to product test their candles and support each other with candlemaking advice. You can rest assured that every line of my candles has been tested before being made for sale. Not to say, that every so often there is a lemon, no one can prevent that.

Still, being a chandler is more than all of this. It is a tradition that has been around since men first made fire. I love traditions and feel, in a small way, that I am carrying on this tradition that started so long ago. To read a quick history of candlemaking, visit IGCA’s section devoted to it, The History of Candlelight.

So, love chandlers, love candles, but, please always use candles with as much care as it has been made with.