Candle Making in Traverse City with Evil Queen
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5–2 hours
Fitness Level
No special physical fitness required; suitable for all ages
Overview
Handcraft your own custom candle in Traverse City’s unique Evil Queen studio, where playful scents meet serious creativity. Discover a hands-on experience that blends artisan craft with local charm.
Details
Traverse City, Michigan, is widely known for its crisp waterfronts and towering dunes along Lake Michigan’s Grand Traverse Bay, but tucked inside its vibrant indoor market is Evil Queen, a destination where artisan candle making meets playful creativity. This unique studio offers hands-on candle making classes that invite locals and visitors alike to craft their own personalized scents in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Far from your typical outdoor excursion, this experience provides a sensory adventure through fragrance and design—perfect for anyone seeking a creative pause from Traverse City’s renowned natural shores and forest trails.
Evil Queen’s classes stand out for their approachable yet detailed instruction, guided by passionate staff who help participants navigate an extensive palette of scents, wax types, and decorative elements. Guests quickly learn how to blend essential oils, choose candle vessels, and customize labels, often adding whimsically dark or humorous touches reflective of the brand’s sassy personality. The studio’s vibe mirrors the city’s artisan culture, drawing parallels between the craftsmanship of outdoor hiking gear and the meticulous care poured into each candle.
Practically speaking, Evil Queen is an ideal stop during a Traverse City getaway for adventurers who want a creative keepsake or a heartfelt gift. Sessions are suitable for small groups, bachelorette parties, or solo travelers. The studio’s commitment to soy wax and recyclable containers echoes the region’s environmental awareness, making this not just a fun activity but a thoughtful one.
Situated in an indoor market that houses other boutique shops, the location offers shelter from Michigan’s variable weather, keeping visitors engaged year-round. Post-class, many choose to extend their visit to nearby lakeshore trails or local wineries, making Evil Queen a distinctive part of Traverse City’s broader experience, connecting handcrafted art to the Great Lakes’ rugged outdoor spirit.
Adventure Tips
Reserve Early
Classes can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and for groups, so book your spot ahead of time.
Arrive on Time
Arriving a few minutes early helps you get settled and start your candle making without rush.
Wear Comfortable Clothing
Casual, comfortable clothes are best—while the process is clean, a little wax might drip during pouring.
Bring Reusable Candle Containers
If you have an Evil Queen candle, bring back its container to recycle during your class for a discount.
Local Insights
Hidden Gems
- The indoor market building with eclectic shops around Evil Queen
- Nearby Boardman Lake Trail for lakeside strolls post-class
Wildlife
- White-tailed deer that frequent local parks
- Seasonal migratory birds around Grand Traverse Bay
History
Traverse City has a strong artisan tradition, dating back to its early fruit farming days, now reflected in local craft studios like Evil Queen.
Conservation
Evil Queen emphasizes sustainability by using soy wax and encouraging container recycling, aligning with northern Michigan’s focus on environmental responsibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Photography Tips
Best Times
Best Viewpoints
- Inside the candle studio vignette areas
- Market’s boutique storefronts nearby
- Grand Traverse Bay waterfront a short walk away
What to Photograph
Recommended Gear
Reusable Candle Container
Bring your own container for recycling and a custom refill discount.
Comfortable Clothes
Wear clothes you don’t mind getting a little wax on during pouring.
Notebook and Pen
Take notes on scent combinations you like for future reference.
Camera or Phone
Capture the creative process and your finished candle as a memento.