Immigrant Woman Owned
Founded by a Turkish-born former NASA physicist, Ferzan Jaeger, District Candle Lab is the second creative venture from the owner of Olive & Loom—a Mediterranean lifestyle brand rooted in heritage and craft.
With a deep love for scent, storytelling, and hands-on experiences, Ferzan created DCL as a place where every candle tells a story. She’s on a mission to turn everyday moments into unforgettable memories.
Clean-Burning Candles
Our custom candles are made from 100% soy wax. We use paraben and phthalate free fragrances and all of our ingredients are vegan and cruelty free. You can feel good about burning our candles in your home.
District Candle Lab
Our Washington, DC location is situated within Union Market District, a 20,000-square-foot home to dozens of merchants and purveyors of food and drink alongside a dynamic, 45-acre streetscape of independent shops and services, nationally recognized brands and highly rated restaurants.
District Candle Lab
Our Merrifield, Virginia location is located in Mosaic District, which is home to a hand-selected mix of retailers & restaurants with engaging events and programming throughout the year.
Natural
Made from 100% soy wax
Clean
Paraben and pthalate free
Vegan
Cruelty free
Custom
Made by YOU!
Frequently Asked Questions
Are reservations required or can I just walk in?
Are reservations required or can I just walk in?
Reservations are strongly recommended, especially for weekends. Walk-ins are welcome but based on availability — we can't guarantee spots without a reservation.
What is the cancellation policy?
What is the cancellation policy?
If you cancel or reschedule less than 24 hours before your appointment, your reservation fee will be forfeited. Unfortunately this includes cancellations due to medical reasons too. If you need to cancel or reschedule, please allow more than 24 hours to do so.
How long is the experience?
How long is the experience?
The hands-on experience takes about 30–45 minutes. Candles then need 2 hours to set before pickup.
How long will you hold my finished candle?
How long will you hold my finished candle?
We will hold candles for up to 2 weeks. After that, due to limited space, unclaimed candles are donated.
Is there an age restriction?
Is there an age restriction?
Guests under 16 year of age must have an adult present for the duration of the candle making experience.
When can I pick up my candle?
When can I pick up my candle?
You can pick up your candle 2 hours after pouring. If you make your candle after 4 PM, you’ll need to pick it up the next day.
Can I host a private event at District Candle Lab?
Can I host a private event at District Candle Lab?
Absolutely! We offer private events perfect for birthdays, team outings, bridal showers, and more. Learn more here.
What’s included in a private event booking?
What’s included in a private event booking?
Private events include access to our full candle bar setup, guidance from our team, and optional add-ons like bubbly and chocolate assortments.
Can I customize candle scents?
Can I customize candle scents?
Yes! You'll have access to a fragrance wall with dozens of options to blend and create your very own custom scent.
What else can I do while I wait for my candle to set?
What else can I do while I wait for my candle to set?
Explore Union Market or Mosaic District! There are dozens of amazing shops, restaurants, and small businesses nearby.
Are gift cards available?
Are gift cards available?
Yes! You can purchase gift cards on our website as well as in store.
How it Works
1. Choose a Scent
Choose your favorite scents from the scent wall.
2. Craft Your Candle
Work with a candle tender to craft your perfect blend.
3. Pick Up
Diffuser? Ready right away! Candle? Come back in 3 hours.
4. Enjoy
Enjoy your custom made candle!