Behind the Brand: AURA Candle Bar's Story on the Sip With Me Podcast

Linda Pendrey, Co-Founder, AURA Candle Bar

Our Story, Our Science, and What’s Next

There are moments in a business journey that feel like true milestones - when the heart behind the work is seen, heard, and shared in a new way. Being featured on the Sip With Me podcast was one of those meaningful moments for AURA Candle Bar.

In this thoughtful conversation, Tom Pendrey and Kristen Pendrey joined hosts Ioanna Kekatos and Aaron Carlson to share the story behind AURA - from its beginnings to the evolution of our fragrance and candle-making experiences. Together, they discussed the intentional choices that have guided our growth since opening our Chicago studio in 2020, and how passion, craftsmanship, and purpose continue to shape everything we create.

 

How AURA Began: A Story Rooted in Connection

Every candle tells a story - and so does every business.

On the Sip With Me podcast, Tom shared the early days of AURA and the vision behind creating a space where people could slow down, explore fragrance with intention, and craft something meaningful with their own hands. What began as a small, family-run candle studio quickly evolved into a sought-after destination for celebrations, date nights, corporate gatherings, and unforgettable moments of connection with guests from around the world.

From the very beginning, AURA has been guided by a simple mission:

To help people create memories and tell their story through fragrance.

If you’re new to AURA, we invite you to explore our full in-studio experience or learn more about our private events & large group experiences - where scent becomes an individual expression shared in community. 

 

Inside the AURA Experience: The Art and Science of Scent

Kristen offered listeners a behind-the-scenes look at what makes the AURA experience truly distinctive. How our Scent Consultants guide guests through our curated fragrance collection, helping them discover notes that reflect their personality, evoke cherished memories, or match their mood - turning fragrance selection into a thoughtful, personalized journey.

The episode explores:

• how fragrance families work and interact

• why scent is so powerfully connected to memory and emotion

• the craftsmanship behind AURA’s proprietary coconut–apricot wax blend

• how candle trends and fragrance preferences have evolved in recent years

For a deeper dive into fragrance education and candle craftsmanship, explore our related blog posts on AURA's candle creation process and approach to  wick selection.

 

Growing Beyond the Studio: E‑Commerce, New Products, and What’s Ahead

The conversation also explored AURA’s growth beyond our Chicago studio. With the launch of our new e-commerce platform, guests can now experience AURA from anywhere - bringing the same intention, craftsmanship, and fragrance expertise into their homes. Our online store features AURA signature blends, sugar scrub, candle care essentials, and the opportunity to create custom blend candles - making it easier than ever to create and enjoy fragrance on your own terms. You can explore the full collection in our online store.

Looking ahead, Tom and Kristen shared a few exciting developments planned for 2026, including:

• new vessel designs and creative collaborations

• expanded and evolving fragrance collections

• enhanced private event and group experiences

• continued growth and innovation within our online store

For businesses, hotels, and brands interested in partnering with AURA, we invite you to explore our Wholesale & Custom Fragrance Program to learn more about collaboration opportunities.

 

Why This Conversation Matters

Podcasts offer something rare: space for depth, reflection, and authentic storytelling. This episode captures the heart of AURA Candle Bar - the people behind the brand, the passion that fuels our work, and the community that has supported us from the very beginning.

For anyone curious about entrepreneurship, sensory design, candle making, or the power of fragrance, this conversation offers a thoughtful and inspiring window into our world.

 

Listen to the Episode

🎧 Apple Podcasts

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sip-with-me/id1522224564?i=1000744812326

🎧 Spotify

https://open.spotify.com/episode/0s1HRHX5e50ic8I5OEikql?si=jqyGwPJ3RNWDqrxrpBiSbw

 

Bring the AURA Experience Into Your World

Whether you’re planning a celebration, creating a custom fragrance, or looking to elevate your home with intentional scent, AURA offers thoughtfully designed experiences and products that inspire connection and creativity.

Explore More:

• Book a Private or Group Event 

• Shop our Signature Blends Candle Collection

• Discover our wholesale and fragrance creation services

• Read more stories and insights on the AURA Blog

We’re grateful to Sip With Me for the opportunity to share our story and grateful to you for being part of the AURA community.