Indies Only: Country Candles by Dena Marie Still Burning Strong

Dena Marie Andersen’s habit of burning candles became expensive, so she utilized trial and error to create her own perfect candle. Nine years later, the Oswego woman has sold thousands of them.

“It started as a hobby for myself. Then my friends wanted me to make candles for them. Then they referred me to their friends,” Andersen said. “Within three months of making my first candle, I was selling at craft shows.

“It’s important to me to offer a good quality product. I based my candles on the best candles in the market,” Andersen said of her product, Country Candles by Dena Marie.

Country Candles are lead-free, so they will not put off any black soot, Andersen explained. Andersen’s candles are triple-scented so they have the same scent start to finish. Cheap candles will only smell when the top layer is burned, explained Andersen.

Even with 55 candle fragrance options, Andersen can fill most orders within 24 hours. She will also mix two scents in one container on request. Custom scents are available with a minimum order, she said.

Andersen enjoys the hunt for cute containers and often searches at Goodwill and resale stores. She encourages customers to return their jars when they reorder. Reusing and recycling are important to her, she said.

If customers have a favorite jar or container, Andersen will fill it with the customer’s choice of candle. Andersen once filled a huge vase with approximately 140 ounces, using three layered scents and five wicks.

The four-ounce jars are the top sellers – especially for new customers, said Andersen. They sell for candles are $5.50 each or 5 for $23. Each candle burns 25-30 hours.

Country Candles are available in four, eight or 16 ounce jars, tea lights, votives and tarts.  

“I feel huge satisfaction when someone enjoys my candle – like when they say it takes them back to their childhood,” Andersen said. “I like bringing happiness to someone else.”

Andersen promises a 100% guarantee on her candles. She explained: “If for any reason the candle burns funny or you are not satisfied in any way, I will replace the candle or refund your money. It’s important to me that people are satisfied. I want everyone to be happy with every purchase.”

Tom Konrad found Country Candles by Dena Marie in a PrairieFest booth. Andersen offers great scents at a reasonable price, she fills the order within a couple days and it’s convenient, Konrad said.

Konrad describes Andersen’s customer service as “fantastic” and “better than expected.” “Once I had a problem with a wick and she gave me a new candle, free of charge, and quickly.”

Andersen said hopes to expand her business by selling to local businesses.

“I’d love to have people selling for me. I need to get my name out there and expand however I can,” Andersen said. “I’ve made thousands of candles and this is still fun for me. Making money is just a big bonus.”

You can contact Dena Marie Andersen at 630-674-3827 or candlelady3@gmail.com.