ABOUT US
At AURA, we believe everyone has a story to share - and fragrance is one of the most beautiful ways to express it.
Our story
We’re Tom and Linda Pendrey, founders of AURA Candle Bar - an independent, family-owned business rooted in Chicago’s Lakeview community. From the start, we set out to create something more than a business.
What began as a husband-and-wife venture has grown into a talented management team and a dedicated group of Scent Consultants who pour their hearts into every guest experience. Today, we’re proud to share part-ownership with our two studio managers, empowering them to grow with us and shape AURA’s future.
Step into AURA and you’re part of more than a candle-making experience. You’re entering a space built with intention, joining a mission to create meaningful moments, supporting a dream, a team, and a community we hold close to our hearts.
The Craft of Perfumery
To set ourselves apart, we’ve invested in professional fragrance education through the Grasse Institute of Perfumery - Grasse, France, the birthplace of modern perfumery. This knowledge allows us to not only guide guests in blending a custom fragrance but also to share the fascinating stories behind each scent: the richness of oud, the warmth of sandalwood, the delicate petals of rose, the sunlit brightness of bergamot, and the mystique of dragon's blood.
Each fragrance carries its own history and culture, and at AURA, we love connecting guests to these stories.
Recognition & Growth
Our vision continues to resonate, both with our guests and within the broader community.
- Recognized by Graphic Design USA with a Branding of the Year award.
- Honored by Yelp with a Top Business Award for being a guest-favorite experience.
- Named by Homebase HR as among theTop Small Business Workplaces in the U.S.
Each of these honors reflect what we value most: our team, our guests, and our supportive community.