Custom Candle and Scent Blending Workshop

A Warm Look at Ketchikan’s Custom Candle and Scent Blending Workshop

Imagine spending an hour in Ketchikan where you’re not just sightseeing but creating something uniquely yours. That’s exactly what the Custom Candle and Scent Blending Workshop delivers—a chance to get hands-on with fragrances and craft a personal candle that you can take home as a souvenir. It sounds simple, but it’s surprisingly immersive and a little more special than your average craft class.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the variety of vessels—from simple to more elaborate styles—that you can choose to house your creation. Second, the over 100 scents available for blending, which means your candle can truly reflect your personality or mood at the moment. However, it’s worth noting that premium vessels come at an additional cost—$40 per person—so plan your budget accordingly. If you’re someone who loves mixing scents or appreciates a quiet, creative moment during your travels, this could be a perfect fit. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy small, intimate workshops and want a tangible memory of Ketchikan’s charm.

Key Points

• Creative engagement: You’ll blend your own unique scent from over 100 options, making each candle one of a kind.
• Choice of vessel: Pick from a variety of styles, with most included in the $59 price, but premium options available at extra cost.
• Guided process: Friendly staff assist you with pouring and scent blending, ensuring a smooth, enjoyable experience.
• Local shopping: Afterward, visit the chandlery store for discounts on home goods and locally crafted souvenirs.
• Duration & accessibility: Around one hour, with a small group limit of 10, making it more personal.
• Family-friendly: Not specifically aimed at children or scent-sensitive travelers, but service animals are welcome.

What to Expect from Your Candle-Making Experience

This workshop is straightforward but thoughtfully designed. When you arrive at the meeting point on 303 Bawden St, you’re greeted with a cheerful atmosphere that invites creativity. The process kicks off by choosing your vessel. Options range from simple containers to more stylish or decorative options, with most included in the base price of $59 per person. If you want a premium vessel, it’ll cost an extra $40, but for many, the standard choices are perfectly lovely.

Once your vessel is selected, you’ll move on to the scent wall—a vivid display of over 100 different fragrances. Here, you get to smell and mix until you find the perfect combination. The staff helps guide you through this, ensuring you don’t get overwhelmed by all the options. It’s a relaxed, almost meditative process that encourages experimentation.

After your scent is finalized, you return to your station to pour your candle. The staff assists during the pouring phase, making sure everything is done safely and correctly. This part feels satisfying—seeing your blend take shape in your chosen vessel. The entire process takes about an hour, making it easy to fit into a port stop or a relaxed day of exploring.

Once your candle has cooled, you’re free to browse the chandlery store, where you’ll find discounts on home goods and local souvenirs. It’s a nice bonus, especially if you’re looking to bring home a piece of Ketchikan that’s more than just a photo.

The Value of This Experience

At $59 per person, this workshop offers a good balance of hands-on fun and personalized keepsake. The inclusion of all materials, plus the guidance from friendly staff, ensures you’re not left to figure it out on your own. The option to choose a vessel within the price is also helpful—you can go for a simple, affordable option or splurge on something more decorative.

Many reviews highlight how enjoyable it was to smell and combine scents, with one reviewer mentioning, “We had a wonderful time smelling and combining scents to make our own unique candle.” Interestingly, everyone in that group used the salted honey butter scent, showing how approachable and fun the process can be. The small group size (max 10 travelers) keeps the experience intimate and interactive, which is ideal when you’re learning a new craft.

Since it’s a one-hour activity, it’s easy to slot into your day without feeling rushed. And, because it’s suitable for most travelers—excluding those with scent sensitivities—it’s accessible for many. Service animals are allowed, which is a considerate touch for travelers with mobility or service needs.

The Downsides and Considerations

While this experience is charming, it’s not for everyone. If you’re very sensitive to fragrances, this might not be ideal. The workshop involves blending and working with scents, which could be overwhelming or uncomfortable. Also, if you’re hoping for a larger or more elaborate workshop, this is quite a small, intimate session—more craft class than full-blown art experience.

The premium vessels, while lovely, add an extra $40, which might seem steep compared to the base price. If you’re on a tight budget, sticking to the standard options is a sensible choice. Plus, since the workshop is only about an hour, those wanting a longer, more in-depth crafting session might find it a bit quick.

Finally, while the process is straightforward, it’s mainly about scent blending and pouring—if you’re expecting a deep storytelling or history component, this isn’t that kind of experience. It’s more about enjoying your creative side in a relaxed setting.

Who Is This Experience Best Suited For?

This workshop is perfect for travelers who enjoy hands-on activities and want a tangible souvenir from their trip. It’s especially attractive for those interested in fragrances, candles, or DIY crafts. The small group size and personalized guidance make it suitable for couples, friends, or solo travelers looking for something unique.

It’s also a good choice for visitors who want a break from sightseeing but still want to engage with the local vibe. If you’re traveling with someone who appreciates creative, relaxed activities, this could be a highlight of your day in Ketchikan.

People who are scent-sensitive may want to think twice, but for most, it’s a charming, memorable way to add a personal touch to your trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this experience suitable for children?
It’s generally geared toward adults and older teens who can participate in scent blending and pouring. Children might find the process engaging, but because of scent sensitivities and the adult nature of crafting, it’s best suited for older participants.

How long does the workshop last?
The activity takes about one hour, making it easy to include as a part of your day’s plans without too much commitment.

Are there different vessel options?
Yes, you can select from a variety of vessels, with most included in the base price. Premium vessels are available at an extra cost of $40.

What scents are available for blending?
While the exact list isn’t specified, there are over 100 fragrances to choose from, allowing for a personalized and creative experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled experience, ensuring flexibility if your trip needs to shift.

Is transportation provided?
No, the workshop meeting point is at 303 Bawden St, and it’s near public transportation, so getting there should be manageable.

Do I need prior experience?
Not at all. The staff guides you through each step, so no prior craft or scent blending knowledge is necessary.

Is there any additional cost?
Most costs are included in the $59 base price, except for optional premium vessels at $40 and potentially some other souvenirs in the store.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a low-key, creative activity during your time in Ketchikan, this Custom Candle and Scent Blending Workshop offers a welcoming space to experiment, relax, and create a personalized keepsake. It’s a chance to slow down, enjoy delightful aromas, and walk away with a candle that’s truly yours—whether you keep it or gift it.

While it’s not a deep dive into candle-making mastery, the friendly guidance and charming setting make it a worthwhile stop, especially if you enjoy sensory experiences or craft activities. Keep in mind the size of the group and the scent sensitivities when planning your visit, but overall, it’s a sweet addition to any trip that values memorable moments over elaborate production.

This workshop appeals most to those wanting to combine creativity with a bit of local flavor, making it an authentic, enjoyable slice of Ketchikan life.