Our Story

The Name Behind the Candle

Nayeli — it's a word that means "I love you" in Zapotec, an indigenous language of Mexico. But for us, it means something even more personal.

When founder Natalie Clarke's nieces and nephews were little, they couldn't quite say "Natalie" — so "Nayeli" is what came out. That sweet, stumbling attempt at their name became something they treasured deeply. When it came time to name the candle brand, there was only one choice.

Nayeli Candles is named for love — the love of family, of memory, and of the moments that stay with us long after they've passed.

Meet the Founder

Hi, I'm Natalie — a candle maker, memory keeper, and proud small business owner based in Chesapeake, VA. I started Nayeli Candles because I believe a scent can take you somewhere. A single whiff can bring back a summer afternoon, a grandmother's kitchen, or a quiet morning that felt like magic.

I wanted to create candles that do more than fill a room with fragrance — I wanted them to fill a room with feeling.

Hand-Poured with Purpose

Every Nayeli candle is hand-poured right here in Chesapeake, VA using a premium coco-soy blend wax. We chose this blend intentionally — it burns cleaner, lasts longer, and carries fragrance beautifully. No shortcuts, no mass production. Just careful, intentional craft in every pour.

Our candles are made in small batches so that every single one gets the attention it deserves.

Scents That Tell a Story

We don't just create scents — we create experiences. Each fragrance in our collection is designed to evoke a feeling, a place, or a memory. Whether you're looking for something warm and grounding, fresh and uplifting, or cozy and nostalgic, there's a Nayeli candle that speaks to you.

Because the best candles aren't just smelled — they're felt.

Made with Love, Shipped with Care

We ship throughout the United States, and every order is packed with the same care we put into making the candles themselves. When you open a Nayeli package, we want it to feel like a gift — because it is.

Thank you for being here. Thank you for supporting a small, black-owned business. And thank you for letting Nayeli Candles be a part of your story.

With love,
Natalie
Founder, Nayeli Candles