Hi, I’m Sandy—the heart (and slightly wax-covered hands) behind Sandy Cane Designs.
I spent 15 years as a visual effects artist in Los Angeles, where creativity was part of my everyday life. After the 2009 economic crash, I traded visual effects for litigation and became a paralegal. There were plenty of deadlines, but very few opportunities to say, “This needs more sparkle.”
After losing my husband, I found comfort in making candles. Grief doesn’t come with instructions, but working with my hands gave me somewhere to put my feelings. Little by little, creating something beautiful helped me reconnect with myself.
The very first candles I made were intention candles—little reminders to stay positive and let go of energy that no longer belonged in my life. Lighting one became a moment to pause, set an intention, and choose how I wanted to move forward. Those candles eventually grew into fairies, with small but meaningful sayings like “Believe.” Sometimes, one little word was exactly the encouragement I needed.
Then, in my 50s, I was diagnosed with ADHD and autism. Suddenly, a lot about me made sense—including why “I think I’ll make a candle” turned into a year of studying wax, wicks, fragrance, and the science of how they work together.
My creative side wanted to design everything. My detail-focused side wanted to know exactly why one wick worked and another didn’t. Somewhere between the beautiful ideas and the very extensive testing, I found my favorite combinations: thoughtfully chosen materials, a reliable burn, and fragrance that fills the room. Let’s just say I took “finding a hobby” very seriously.
Along the way, my son and I began making and selling candles to raise money for a local animal shelter. We’ve now kept that tradition going for four years straight. Giving back is a big part of Sandy Cane Designs, and sharing that experience with my son has made this journey even more meaningful.
For years, candles were my personal creative escape. Now, I’m turning that love into a full-time adventure—and sharing it through custom candles and candle-making parties. Watching someone light up over something they’ve made is one of my favorite parts.
I love making candles that mean something: a reminder of someone you love, a celebration, a little encouragement, or a piece of your personality with a wick in it.
I also hope to help others reconnect with their own sense of purpose. Sometimes, that can begin with something as simple as lighting a candle you made yourself, reading the positive affirmation you chose, and carrying that intention into your day. That small ritual meant something to me, and I love being able to share it.
Every candle I create carries a little of my story. My hope is that yours will carry a little of yours, too.
