As retail continues to evolve and find shoppers spending more time and money shopping online, many retailers are finding that experience is crucial to add to their allure to keep consumers engaged.

Keeping in step with that trend, locals, and siblings Heather Boadella and Sean Kowalski have opened Orlando’s first DIY candle pour bar, Artifact Candle Foundry.

Yes, we could all continue to shop for our favorite scents from Anthropologie’s Blue Volcano candle or searching the discount candles at TJ Maxx, but you miss some crucial components in doing so. The experience of creating something on your own, and crafting a unique scent elevates a purchase that can otherwise seem impersonal.

Additionally, some candles and fragrances are a cause of irritant to some due to sensitivity to chemicals. At Artifact, they use ingredients that are natural fragrances made up of essential oil, absolutes, extracts, CO2’s, and isolates of the natural aromatic components taken from the complex scent of essential oils.

How it works:

When you enter the bar, you’ll write down your favorite scent profiles. From there, you’ll be helped to create your signature fragrance. They have recipes on hand and can even help you try to duplicate a favorite scent from your past.

They have close to 100 scents on hand, some that rotate seasonally, so the fun comes from creating a signature scent all your own from their catalog. The list of scents includes deep and earthy, to light and floral. Some scents on hand are Elderflower, Leather, Coffee Bean, Bergamot, Magnolia, Old Books, and Champagne.

The candles do take about two hours to cure, so when the experience is over, it’s a good idea to stick around downtown, maybe grab a bite to eat and return to get your candle the same day. There are other items that you can create a scent for, including room/linen sprays and reed diffusers.

If you prefer to buy a candle, their merchandise wall is full of ready to purchase items or can be a source of inspiration as you concoct your own creation. The candle bar hosts groups and parties with a call ahead, but also welcomes walk-ins.

The hours are Wednesday - Saturday 11 AM - 8 PM and Sunday 11 AM - 5 PM.

Address: 2 N Summerlin Ave, Orlando, FL 32801

Instagram: @artifactcandlefoundry