The story of Solei Studios

Solei Studios is a London candle studio inspired by sunshine and warmth. Each candle is made by hand in small batches using plant based wax.

Hi, I'm Lena 👋

Hello 👋 I'm Lena, founder of Solei Studios. I grew up in Swedish Lapland, the land of the midnight sun, and I'm happiest by the sea with warm sun on my skin.

My love of candles started long before Solei Studios. For a long time, but especially during Covid whilst working from home, I became fascinated by the way scent could change the feeling of a space - helping me relax, feel energised or simply make home feel just right.

In January 2024, after 20 years working in product management for London tech and start-up companies, I decided to do something a little wild. I took a year out to explore my love for scent and design, and launched Solei Studios that June.

I've never looked back. Reading your messages, meeting customers at markets and seeing Solei Studios candles out in the world is still the best feeling.

The inspiration

Solei Studios is an ode to the sun. Growing up near the Arctic Circle gave me a deep appreciation for warm days, long summer evenings and making every moment of feeling sun on your skin.

When I create a candle, I often start with a place or a feeling: warm sand underfoot, waves rolling in, the garden doors opening on the first days of spring, or how I like to feel on warm days.

Those moments became the starting point for the collection, candles designed to bring a little warmth and feel good moments into everyday life.

Quality matters

Every Solei Studios candle is made by hand in small batches in my South East London studio. It's where I explore scents, pour your favourites and pack every order.

I test each candle recipe carefully for scent throw, burn quality and safety, tailoring the wax and wick to suit each fragrance rather than using a one-size-fits-all formula.

Making every candle myself means I can keep a close eye on every part of the process, from the first test burn to the candle that arrives at your door.

Browse the collection