FAQ
Wara Living
Everything you need to know
We make handcrafted soy wax candles rooted in Indian heritage. Here are the answers to the questions we hear most.
Scents & Products
What makes Wara candles different from other candles?
Three things set Wara apart.
The scents are Indian. We don't use generic "ocean breeze" or "vanilla latte" fragrances imported from a catalogue. Our scents are rooted in real Indian memories — South Indian filter coffee, Madurai jasmine, Mysore sandalwood, mogra, and Indian rose. These are the smells of Indian mornings, Indian celebrations, Indian homes.
The forms are sculptural. Wara candles are individually hand-formed — petals placed by hand, botanicals assembled one leaf at a time. No two pieces are ever exactly alike. These aren't candles that disappear into a corner. They're objects you notice.
The wax is pure soy. Not paraffin, not a paraffin blend — 100% soy. It burns cleaner, lasts longer, and is better for the air in your home.
The scents are Indian. We don't use generic "ocean breeze" or "vanilla latte" fragrances imported from a catalogue. Our scents are rooted in real Indian memories — South Indian filter coffee, Madurai jasmine, Mysore sandalwood, mogra, and Indian rose. These are the smells of Indian mornings, Indian celebrations, Indian homes.
The forms are sculptural. Wara candles are individually hand-formed — petals placed by hand, botanicals assembled one leaf at a time. No two pieces are ever exactly alike. These aren't candles that disappear into a corner. They're objects you notice.
The wax is pure soy. Not paraffin, not a paraffin blend — 100% soy. It burns cleaner, lasts longer, and is better for the air in your home.
What scents do you offer, and how do I choose?
Our scents sit across three families:
Indian Heritage — our signature range. Filter coffee (rich, roasted, creamy), mogra (sweet white flower, reminiscent of a gajra), Madurai jasmine (lush, heady, romantic), Mysore sandalwood (warm, woody, grounding), Indian rose (full-bodied, the rose you recognise).
Warm & Woody — patchouli and tuberose (earthy and exotic), sandalwood with amber (slow-burning warmth), cinnamon and orange (spiced, festive).
Fresh & Floral — rose and peony (soft, powdery), white musk (quiet, clean), mogra and vetiver (floral over a green base).
Indian Heritage — our signature range. Filter coffee (rich, roasted, creamy), mogra (sweet white flower, reminiscent of a gajra), Madurai jasmine (lush, heady, romantic), Mysore sandalwood (warm, woody, grounding), Indian rose (full-bodied, the rose you recognise).
Warm & Woody — patchouli and tuberose (earthy and exotic), sandalwood with amber (slow-burning warmth), cinnamon and orange (spiced, festive).
Fresh & Floral — rose and peony (soft, powdery), white musk (quiet, clean), mogra and vetiver (floral over a green base).
✨ Not sure? A good rule: if you want a candle for relaxation or sleep, choose mogra, sandalwood, or white musk. For a living room or gifting, filter coffee, Indian rose, or patchouli. For festive occasions, orange and cinnamon or jasmine.
What is soy wax and why do you use it?
Soy wax is made from soybean oil — a natural, renewable plant-based material. We use 100% pure soy wax (not a blend) because:
- It burns significantly longer than paraffin — up to 50% more burn time for the same weight of wax
- It produces little to no soot, keeping your walls and air cleaner
- It holds fragrance better, releasing scent gradually rather than all at once
- It's non-toxic and free from the petroleum byproducts found in paraffin wax
Soy wax costs more than paraffin. We use it anyway, because the candles you burn in your home shouldn't compromise the air you breathe.
Are your candles scented or unscented?
Most Wara candles are scented using high-quality fragrance oils blended to our specifications. The scent intensity is moderate to strong — enough to fill a room without being overwhelming.
A few products — such as our taper candles — are unscented, which we mark clearly on the product page. If you're unsure, the product description will always specify whether the candle is scented and what the fragrance is.
A few products — such as our taper candles — are unscented, which we mark clearly on the product page. If you're unsure, the product description will always specify whether the candle is scented and what the fragrance is.
Are the brass and terracotta vessels reusable?
Yes — and this is something we're genuinely proud of. The brass dabara used in our Filter Coffee Candle is a real, functional vessel. Once the wax is fully burned, you can clean it out with warm water and use it as a planter, a pen holder, a diya — whatever feels right.
Similarly, our terracotta and wooden bases are designed to last well beyond the candle's burn life. We make objects that are worth keeping.
Similarly, our terracotta and wooden bases are designed to last well beyond the candle's burn life. We make objects that are worth keeping.
To clean a vessel: once the candle is spent, place it in the freezer for 30 minutes. The remaining wax will shrink and pop out easily. Wipe clean with a cloth.
Can I customise a scent or vessel for a specific occasion?
For bulk and corporate orders (minimum 25 units), we offer custom scent blending, vessel options, and personalised labelling. Reach out to us on WhatsApp or via the Bulk Order page to discuss what you have in mind.
For individual orders, we don't currently offer bespoke customisation — but our catalogue includes occasion-matched collections for weddings, Diwali, birthdays, housewarming, and more. You can also add a personalised gift message at checkout at no extra charge.
For individual orders, we don't currently offer bespoke customisation — but our catalogue includes occasion-matched collections for weddings, Diwali, birthdays, housewarming, and more. You can also add a personalised gift message at checkout at no extra charge.
Burn & Care Instructions
How do I light my Wara candle for the first time?
The first burn is the most important one. Soy wax has memory — it will always melt to the same diameter it reached in the first burn.
On your first burn, allow the candle to burn until the entire top surface has melted into a full melt pool. For most Wara candles, this takes 2–3 hours. Do not extinguish it before the wax reaches all edges, or you'll get "tunnelling" — a hollow channel down the centre — in every subsequent burn.
On your first burn, allow the candle to burn until the entire top surface has melted into a full melt pool. For most Wara candles, this takes 2–3 hours. Do not extinguish it before the wax reaches all edges, or you'll get "tunnelling" — a hollow channel down the centre — in every subsequent burn.
💡 Think of it like seasoning a pan. The first use sets the pattern for every use after.
How long should I burn my candle each time?
Minimum: Long enough to achieve a full melt pool (edges to edges) — usually 2–3 hours.
Maximum: Never more than 4 hours at a stretch.
Burning beyond 4 hours causes the wick to become too long and the wax to overheat, which reduces scent quality and shortens the candle's life. After 4 hours, extinguish, let the candle cool completely, trim the wick, and relight.
Maximum: Never more than 4 hours at a stretch.
Burning beyond 4 hours causes the wick to become too long and the wax to overheat, which reduces scent quality and shortens the candle's life. After 4 hours, extinguish, let the candle cool completely, trim the wick, and relight.
How do I trim the wick and why does it matter?
Before every burn (after the first), trim your wick to 5–6mm above the wax surface.
Why it matters:
Why it matters:
- A long wick produces a larger, hotter flame that can smoke and produce soot
- It can cause the wax to burn unevenly or too quickly
- Keeping it trimmed gives you a cleaner, longer-lasting, better-smelling burn
If you see black smoke or a flickering, mushrooming flame, it's almost always because the wick is too long. Extinguish, cool, trim, relight.
Why is my candle not throwing enough scent?
A few common reasons:
The room is too large or ventilated. Candles scent rooms best when windows are closed and the space is not too big. A single candle works best in a 150–200 sq ft area.
The wick is too long. A wick that's too long causes the wax to burn too fast and the fragrance to combust rather than diffuse. Trim to 5–6mm and relight.
You've nose-adapted. If you've been in the same room for a while, your nose stops registering the scent — this is called olfactory fatigue. Leave the room for 10–15 minutes and return. You'll notice the fragrance immediately.
The melt pool hasn't fully formed. Scent throw is strongest once the entire top surface has melted. If you've only let it burn for 30 minutes, the scent hasn't had a chance to develop.
The room is too large or ventilated. Candles scent rooms best when windows are closed and the space is not too big. A single candle works best in a 150–200 sq ft area.
The wick is too long. A wick that's too long causes the wax to burn too fast and the fragrance to combust rather than diffuse. Trim to 5–6mm and relight.
You've nose-adapted. If you've been in the same room for a while, your nose stops registering the scent — this is called olfactory fatigue. Leave the room for 10–15 minutes and return. You'll notice the fragrance immediately.
The melt pool hasn't fully formed. Scent throw is strongest once the entire top surface has melted. If you've only let it burn for 30 minutes, the scent hasn't had a chance to develop.
My candle has white patches or looks uneven on top. Is this normal?
Yes — completely normal, and actually a sign of quality. The white patches you see (called "frosting") are a natural characteristic of pure soy wax. It happens because soy wax, unlike paraffin, is made from a natural material that reacts to temperature changes.
Frosting does not affect scent, burn quality, or longevity in any way. It's the wax equivalent of a watermark on silk — a hallmark of the real thing. Mass-produced candles often add additives specifically to hide frosting and look "perfect." We don't.
Frosting does not affect scent, burn quality, or longevity in any way. It's the wax equivalent of a watermark on silk — a hallmark of the real thing. Mass-produced candles often add additives specifically to hide frosting and look "perfect." We don't.
How do I safely extinguish my candle?
Do not blow out a soy wax candle. Blowing causes the wick to move and can deposit soot onto the wax surface, which affects the next burn.
Instead:
Instead:
- Use a candle snuffer if you have one — this is the cleanest method
- Or gently dip the wick into the melt pool using a toothpick or wick dipper, then straighten it back up while the wax is still liquid — this extinguishes without smoke and coats the wick for easier lighting next time
How do I store my candle when not in use?
- Keep the lid or dust cover on (if one was included) to protect the wax surface and preserve the fragrance
- Store away from direct sunlight — UV light causes soy wax to yellow and degrades fragrance over time
- Store in a cool, dry place — avoid storing near a window, on a balcony, or in a car during Indian summers. Heat above 35°C can soften or warp the wax
- Keep away from fans and air conditioning vents, which cause uneven burning
Shipping & Delivery
How quickly will my order be dispatched?
We dispatch all orders within 24 hours of confirmation — including weekends. Every Wara candle is made in Bengaluru, packed by hand, and ships the next working day.
You will receive a shipping confirmation with a tracking number as soon as your order leaves us.
You will receive a shipping confirmation with a tracking number as soon as your order leaves us.
How long does delivery take?
- Bengaluru: 1–2 business days
- Metro cities (Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Hyderabad, Pune, Kolkata): 2–4 business days
- Rest of India: 4–7 business days
What are your shipping charges?
Shipping is free on all orders above ₹499. For orders below ₹499, a flat shipping fee applies and will be shown at checkout before you pay.
💡 Tip: Add the ₹199 Sugandh Wax Melts or ₹299 Scented Wax Sachets to any order under ₹499 to unlock free shipping — and get a beautiful extra for yourself or your gift recipient.
Do you ship internationally?
We currently ship across all of India. International shipping is not available through our website at this time.
If you're based outside India and would like to order Wara candles, please reach out to us directly on Instagram (@wara_living) or WhatsApp and we can explore options on a case-by-case basis.
If you're based outside India and would like to order Wara candles, please reach out to us directly on Instagram (@wara_living) or WhatsApp and we can explore options on a case-by-case basis.
How are the candles packed to avoid damage in transit?
Every Wara candle is individually wrapped and packed with protective padding before dispatch. Our sculptural and wax bouquet products receive extra cushioning because we know how long each one took to make — and we're not about to let a courier undo that.
If your order arrives damaged, please photograph it immediately and contact us within 48 hours of delivery. We will replace or refund without question.
If your order arrives damaged, please photograph it immediately and contact us within 48 hours of delivery. We will replace or refund without question.
Gifting
Can I send a Wara candle directly to someone as a gift?
Yes — and this is something we're set up for properly. At checkout, you can:
- Enter a different delivery address from your billing address
- Add a personalised gift message (written by hand on a card inside the package)
- Add gift wrapping for a small additional charge
Which products do you recommend for gifting?
It depends on who you're gifting. Here's a quick guide:
For a wedding or anniversary — Wara Signature Gift Set (₹1,199), Apsara Wax Bouquet (₹4,999), Neelima Wax Bouquet (₹2,999), or Gulabi Rose & Peony Candle.
For a birthday — Black Swan (consistently our best-reviewed product), Shaant, or the Filter Coffee Candle in Brass for a South Indian coffee lover.
For a housewarming — Mitti & Bloom Botanical Candle, Earthen Whispers, or the Solstice (Orange, Coffee & Cinnamon) for a warm, home-filling scent.
For a baby shower — Blossom Bear Candle, or any of our softer floral fragrances.
Under ₹500 — Boxed Beauty (₹299), Rose Garden Wax Sachet (₹299), or Sugandh Wax Melts (from ₹199).
For a wedding or anniversary — Wara Signature Gift Set (₹1,199), Apsara Wax Bouquet (₹4,999), Neelima Wax Bouquet (₹2,999), or Gulabi Rose & Peony Candle.
For a birthday — Black Swan (consistently our best-reviewed product), Shaant, or the Filter Coffee Candle in Brass for a South Indian coffee lover.
For a housewarming — Mitti & Bloom Botanical Candle, Earthen Whispers, or the Solstice (Orange, Coffee & Cinnamon) for a warm, home-filling scent.
For a baby shower — Blossom Bear Candle, or any of our softer floral fragrances.
Under ₹500 — Boxed Beauty (₹299), Rose Garden Wax Sachet (₹299), or Sugandh Wax Melts (from ₹199).
Not sure? Message us on WhatsApp with a few words about the person and the occasion — we'll recommend something specific.
Can I include a personalised message with my gift?
Yes. At checkout, there's a gift message field where you can write your note. We handwrite it on a Wara card and include it inside the package. No extra charge.
For bulk or corporate orders, we also offer printed or custom-stamped cards — ask us about this when placing your bulk order enquiry.
For bulk or corporate orders, we also offer printed or custom-stamped cards — ask us about this when placing your bulk order enquiry.
Do you have ready-made gift sets?
Yes. The Wara Signature Gift Set (₹1,199) is our most popular ready-to-gift option — it includes a curated selection of our best pieces in a gift-ready box. We also offer Boxed Beauty (₹299) for a more affordable gifting option.
Our wax bouquets — Apsara, Neelima, Whispering Fuchsia, and Rati Laal — come in their own packaging and need no additional wrapping. They arrive looking like gifts.
Our wax bouquets — Apsara, Neelima, Whispering Fuchsia, and Rati Laal — come in their own packaging and need no additional wrapping. They arrive looking like gifts.
Bulk & Corporate Orders
Do you take bulk or corporate gifting orders?
Yes — and this is a large part of what we do. We work with companies, event planners, wedding teams, and HR departments to create gifts that people actually remember.
We've supplied candles for weddings, Diwali corporate gifting, product launches, team appreciation hampers, and client gifting. If you need something beautiful in quantity, we can make it happen.
We've supplied candles for weddings, Diwali corporate gifting, product launches, team appreciation hampers, and client gifting. If you need something beautiful in quantity, we can make it happen.
Minimum order quantity for bulk is 25 units. Volume pricing starts at 50 units.
Can you customise products with our company branding?
Yes. For bulk orders of 50 units and above, we offer:
- Custom labels — your company name, logo, or a personalised message on the candle label
- Custom scent blending — work with us to create a signature scent for your brand (minimum 100 units)
- Custom packaging — branded boxes, tissue, and ribbon in your brand colours (minimum 50 units)
- Personalised gift cards — printed cards with a message from your company to each recipient
What is your pricing for bulk orders?
Bulk pricing depends on the product selected, quantity, and customisation requirements. As a general guide:
- 25–49 units: 10% off standard pricing
- 50–99 units: 18% off standard pricing
- 100+ units: 25% off + complimentary gift wrapping
How far in advance should I place a bulk order?
Standard bulk orders (no customisation): 5–7 business days lead time.
Customised orders (custom labels, scents, packaging): 10–15 business days.
For peak seasons — Diwali (October), Christmas/New Year (December), and Valentine's season (February) — we strongly recommend placing orders at least 3–4 weeks in advance. We work to capacity during these periods and cannot guarantee timelines for late orders.
Customised orders (custom labels, scents, packaging): 10–15 business days.
For peak seasons — Diwali (October), Christmas/New Year (December), and Valentine's season (February) — we strongly recommend placing orders at least 3–4 weeks in advance. We work to capacity during these periods and cannot guarantee timelines for late orders.
Already know you'll need Diwali gifts? Reach out in August or September. We offer early-bird pricing for orders placed more than 6 weeks ahead of a major gifting season.
How do I place a bulk order enquiry?
Three ways:
- Fill in our Bulk Order form on the website (Bulk Order page) — we respond within 24 hours
- WhatsApp us directly — our number is in the bottom right of every page
- DM us on Instagram @wara_living with "BULK" in your first message — we'll respond the same day
Returns & Refunds
What is your return policy?
We want you to love what you ordered. If you're not happy, here's how we handle it:
Damaged or defective products: If your candle arrives damaged, photograph it within 48 hours of delivery and send it to us via WhatsApp or email. We will replace or refund in full — no questions asked.
Wrong item received: We'll send the correct item and arrange collection of the incorrect one at no cost to you.
Change of mind: Because our candles are handcrafted and fragrance-based, we're unable to accept returns for change of mind. If you're unsure about a scent, please message us before ordering — we're happy to guide you.
Damaged or defective products: If your candle arrives damaged, photograph it within 48 hours of delivery and send it to us via WhatsApp or email. We will replace or refund in full — no questions asked.
Wrong item received: We'll send the correct item and arrange collection of the incorrect one at no cost to you.
Change of mind: Because our candles are handcrafted and fragrance-based, we're unable to accept returns for change of mind. If you're unsure about a scent, please message us before ordering — we're happy to guide you.
My candle arrived damaged. What should I do?
We're sorry — this happens sometimes despite our best packing efforts.
Please:
Please:
- Photograph the damaged product and the outer packaging
- Send the photos to us within 48 hours of delivery via WhatsApp (bottom right of this page) or email
- Include your order number in the message
How long do refunds take?
Once a refund is approved, it is processed within 2 business days on our end. Depending on your bank and payment method, the amount will appear in your account within 5–7 business days after processing.
We refund to the original payment method — UPI, card, or net banking, whichever you used.
We refund to the original payment method — UPI, card, or net banking, whichever you used.
Still have a question?
We're a small team in Bengaluru and we actually respond. Message us on WhatsApp or Instagram — we usually reply within a few hours.
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