Wax Art Works
Sculptural candles serve as consumable decor.
By Meredith Schwartz -- Gifts & Decorative Accessories, 9/1/2004
A few years ago, high-end sculptural candles hit the market. They were unique and gorgeous. But the market for them was limited, because of price points that reached up to $100. Consumers who did buy them, kept them — which meant few repeat purchases for retailers. That's bad news in a business geared for replacement sales. Enter today's burnable brilliance: candles molded in elegant shapes that are still simple (and economical) enough to burn. New textures and new twists on classic shapes make these candles a functional alternative to decorative artwork. With their warm, natural colors and intriguing patterns, they have the same appeal as handmade pottery. And at these prices, impermanence is a plus. Customers can afford to burn their candles without a qualm — and then update their decor with the latest colors and designs.
