Custom Candle and Scent Blending Workshop

If you’re looking for a unique activity that combines creativity, aromatic delight, and a bit of local charm, the Custom Candle and Scent Blending Workshop in Ketchikan is worth considering. This small, interactive session offers a chance to craft a personalized candle while exploring a variety of fragrances, making it a memorable part of your port stop.

What we love about this experience is its intimate setting—limit of just 10 participants—and the chance to truly customize your candle with over 100 scents to choose from. Plus, the opportunity to browse a shop offering local souvenirs and home goods adds a nice touch for those wanting to bring home a piece of Ketchikan.

One potential consideration is that the workshop is notably shorter, about an hour, so if you’re craving a full-day excursion, this might be more of a quick, creative break. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who enjoy hands-on activities, scent enthusiasts, or anyone who appreciates a personalized souvenir rather than a generic ship shop item.

This experience is ideal for those looking to add a craft-focused, fragrant memory to their Ketchikan visit, whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with a small group of friends.

Key Points

• Personalization: You get to create a candle uniquely yours, choosing your vessel and scent blend.
• Local Touch: The shop offers discounts on locally made souvenirs and home goods.
• Duration & Size: Short, approximately 1-hour activity, with a small group cap of 10.
• Cost & Value: At $59 per person, you’re paying for a memorable, creative keepsake and a fun experience.
• Guided Process: Friendly staff guide you step-by-step, making it accessible even for newbies.
• Premium Options: There are higher-priced vessels ($40) available if you want an extra special container.

Ketchikan is famed for its lush scenery and vibrant local culture, but sometimes, what visitors really want is a meaningful, hands-on activity. The Custom Candle and Scent Blending Workshop offers just that—a chance to make something beautiful with your own hands. For about an hour, you’ll step into a cozy workshop space where creativity meets fragrant fun.

The experience is booked well in advance—on average 109 days ahead—indicating it’s popular among travelers seeking a creative souvenir. At $59 per person, it’s a modest investment for a personalized keepsake that goes beyond typical tourist tchotchkes.

What to Expect: A Step-by-Step Journey into Candle Making

Meeting Point & Accessibility
You’ll gather at 303 Bawden Street, a convenient spot within easy reach of public transportation. The activity is designed to be inclusive, with service animals allowed and most travelers able to participate. It’s not recommended if you have scent sensitivities, so keep that in mind if you or a travel companion are sensitive to fragrances.

The Creative Process
Once you arrive, the fun begins. Your first task is to select your vessel—ranging from styles costing between $15 and $49—and this choice sets the tone for your candle. You’ll find a variety of options, from simple jars to more decorative containers, allowing you to match your personal style or home decor.

Next, it’s time to visit the “wall of fragrances”—a beautiful array of over 100 scents. This part is perhaps the most delightful, as you get to smell and blend, crafting a scent that perfectly suits your preference. A friendly crew member will assist with guidance, ensuring you don’t accidentally create something overpowering or unbalanced.

Finally, you’ll pour your custom blend into your chosen vessel. All necessary tools are provided, so no need to bring anything but your creativity. When finished, you can leave with a candle that’s truly your own—something that will remind you of Ketchikan long after your cruise or visit.

Extra Touches & Shopping
After the workshop, visitors are encouraged to browse the chandlery store, which offers discounts on locally made souvenirs and beautiful home goods. This makes for a nice opportunity to pick up a gift or a little piece of Ketchikan to bring home.

Authenticity & Visitor Feedback

The reviews speak volumes about the quality of this workshop. One guest, Pamela_D, mentioned, “We had a wonderful time smelling and combining scents to make our own unique candle,” adding that everyone used the salted honey butter scent—a testament to the variety of fragrances available. The small group setting and friendly staff contribute heavily to a relaxed, enjoyable atmosphere.

Analyzing the Value

At $59, the price reflects the personal touch, the guidance, and the unique keepsake. The option to select premium vessels at an additional $40 allows for more luxurious options if you’re willing to splurge. Considering the cost of similar workshops elsewhere, this represents good value, especially given the memorable experience and the locally crafted souvenir you get to take home.

The Experience’s Unique Charm

This activity shines because of its attention to detail—from choosing your vessel, blending your scent, to pouring your candle. We loved the way the staff guides you through each step, making it accessible and fun, even for those new to candle-making.

The small group size means personalized attention, and the delightful aromas fill the space, making it a sensory treat. Plus, the convenience of combining this activity with a shopping stop adds extra value, turning what might have been a simple craft into a well-rounded experience.

If you’re interested in hands-on activities, love fragrances, or want a personalized souvenir, this workshop is perfect. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy creative, small-group experiences that don’t require a lot of time—ideal for a port day or a relaxing afternoon. It also makes a thoughtful gift for friends or family who appreciate crafts and locally made products.

This experience offers a charming, well-organized way to create a tangible memory of your visit to Ketchikan. You’ll leave with a custom candle, a better understanding of scent blending, and a small piece of local craftsmanship. It’s fun, friendly, and feels authentic—more than just a tourist trap.

While it’s not a lengthy or extensive tour, it packs a lot of value into an hour of your time. Whether you’re a craft lover, a fragrance enthusiast, or simply after something different from the usual cruise activities, this workshop delivers on its promise of creativity and personal touch.

In the end, it’s a special way to slow down, get creative, and take home a unique souvenir that will remind you of Ketchikan long after you’ve left the harbor.

How long does the workshop last?
The activity is approximately 1 hour, making it a perfect quick yet meaningful experience during your port day.

Is the price all-inclusive?
Yes, the $59 per person covers your vessel choice, all materials, and scent blending. Premium vessels are available for an additional $40.

Can I choose my scent?
Absolutely. You’ll be able to browse a wall of over 100 scents and create your own signature blend with guidance from the staff.

Is this activity suitable for children or those with scent sensitivities?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s not recommended for those with scent sensitivities due to the fragrances involved.

What should I expect at the end?
You’ll leave with your personal, hand-poured candle in your chosen vessel, along with the satisfaction of having made something unique.

Where is the meeting point?
The activity starts at 303 Bawden Street in Ketchikan, a convenient spot near public transit.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund.

If you’re looking for an engaging, creative way to remember your time in Ketchikan—beyond the usual sightseeing—this candle and scent workshop is a delightful choice. It’s simple, personal, and authentically local.