Make your own candle in city time. This Chicago class is a laid-back, step-by-step way to mix fragrances and pour a custom 100% soy wax candle, right on the Magnificent Mile. I like the social feel without the pressure—easy to chat with like-minded crafters—and I also love that you leave with something personal you can actually use at home. One thing to consider: the class may run shorter than the listed 1 hour 15 minutes, so the $75 price can feel touchy if you were expecting a longer sit.

You’ll start at the 900 North Michigan Shops area, blend scents, and pour your candle while an instructor guides you through each stage. The smaller group size (max 20) makes it feel more like a workshop than a factory line. Just don’t wait until the last second to find the location, since directions can be tricky unless you know the store name.

Key takeaways

• 100% soy wax candle: you make an 8 oz candle with materials provided
• Custom fragrance mixing: pick from scent options and build a blend you like
• Small group (max 20): easier interaction and calmer pacing
• Central location: perfect for pairing with nearby sightseeing afterward
• BYOB included: plan on bringing your own if you want alcohol

A Soy Candle Workshop Right on the Magnificent Mile

If you want a Chicago activity that isn’t another line, another museum ticket, or another “quick photo then move on,” this candle class is a good change of pace. You’re making something tangible while the city energy stays close by. And because the workshop is in a high-traffic tourist area, it’s simple to plan a full day: do the class, then walk off the craft-shop calm with Michigan Avenue scenery.

The vibe is best described as relaxing and purposeful. People come to unwind, to hang out with friends, or to reset mentally. One review even called out the healing philosophy behind the brand. Translation: you’re not just learning a craft—you’re given room to slow down, smell, and reflect.

What you’re paying for is not a fancy product. It’s the experience of creating your own fragrance and candle from scratch, with everything set up so you don’t need a single tool.

What You Create: 8 oz 100% Soy Wax and Your Own Fragrance

Your final product is clear: you’ll create an 8 oz custom candle using 100% soy wax, plus fragrance and a vessel. The class provides the supplies, so you don’t show up wondering where to find wicks, jars, or the chemicals behind the curtain.

The fragrance part is the real heart of the experience. You’ll learn techniques step by step to make your candle and then customize the scent to match your preferences. That means you’re not stuck with one default smell. You’re actively building the blend, which is why the class feels personal even if you’re doing it in a group.

You should also expect the candle to be the kind you can actually keep and burn. Several reviews emphasize that the candle is not a generic souvenir—it’s your fragrance, your choices, your outcome.

Class Flow on the 6th Floor: From Scents to Pouring

The class is built like a guided workshop, not a demo you watch from your seat. In general, you can think of it as four phases:

First, you’ll get the step-by-step basics for making a soy candle, including how to handle wax and work through the process without rushing. Next comes fragrance customization, where you choose from the scent options and blend toward something you like.

Then you move into pouring your candle. By this point, you’re no longer just selecting smells—you’re actively making your candle. Finally, you get time for reflection. Some reviews mention journaling at the end, including journaling cards, which gives the experience a calmer landing.

One practical note: the class time is listed as about 1 hour 15 minutes, but actual completion can vary based on how long you spend on fragrance and your personal pace. If you’re the kind of person who likes to take your time sniffing, you’ll likely appreciate the slower moments. If you’re expecting to finish in 45 minutes no matter what, set your expectations that your candle might take a bit longer because you’ll be creating a fragrance you truly like.

The Scent Menu: How to Pick Oils Without Getting Smothered

Scent selection is fun, but it can also get overwhelming fast if you treat it like a sprint. You’ll be choosing fragrances from multiple oils, and your nose can fatigue. That’s why the teaching approach matters: you’re guided through the process rather than left alone with a table of mystery bottles.

Here’s how to make it easier on yourself:

• Take your time with scent choices, and don’t force a decision after the first sniff.
• If you’re sensitive to strong smells, plan for that. Some people reported feeling ready for less-scented air by the end, which is a normal sign of olfactory overload.
• Talk with your group. Swapping scent ideas can help you narrow down blends without guessing.

Also, bring your preferences with you. If you know you like something fresh, cozy, floral, or warm, you’ll get better results because you’ll stop thinking in terms of random oils and start building a direction for your blend.

In several reviews, the facilitators are praised for taking time to explain the process fully. One review specifically mentioned an instructor named Alana as a great facilitator. Even if you don’t get the same person, the pattern you want is patient guidance—so if you’re unsure about anything, ask.

BYOB, Journaling, and the Mental-Reset Side of Candle Therapy

This is not just a craft class. It has a “reset” vibe. The brand’s mental health focus shows up in the way the experience is paced and the way the class ends. You’ll have time to reflect, and some guests specifically call out journaling components and reflection cards.

The practical side: BYOB is included. That matters for your planning. If you want alcohol during your workshop, plan to bring it. Some people expected alcohol to be provided and were disappointed, while others mentioned having wine. The safe approach is simple: don’t assume anything will be handed to you. Bring what you want, keep it moderate, and focus on enjoying the craft.

If you want to make it a true date or friend day, this is a good setup. You’re doing something calm and sensory together—sniffing oils, talking about what smells evoke, laughing about your blends—and that kind of shared activity tends to stick in memory more than most typical tourist errands.

And because you’re making a candle you can take home, you’re not just leaving with a story. You’ll also have a fragrance reminder of that day in Chicago.

Price and Value: Is $75 Worth It for an 8 oz Candle?

Let’s talk money without spinning it. The price is $75 per person, and you create an 8 oz soy candle. That sounds straightforward on paper, but value depends on what you expect from the time you’re spending.

On the positive side, you’re paying for:

• materials included (wax, fragrance options, vessel, and what you need to make the candle)
• guided instruction
• fragrance customization time
• a personalized result you can burn at home

On the flip side, some reviews mention the class felt shorter than expected, and a couple people questioned the price for the time. One review also mentioned extra charges related to shipping, and another called out an issue with setup timing. You don’t need to panic, but you should treat this like any paid activity: verify what’s included, and ask questions if anything seems unclear.

Here’s my practical way to decide if it’s worth it for you:

• If you enjoy crafting, scent blending, and sensory activities, you’ll likely feel it’s a fair trade.
• If you only want a quick “tourist activity,” this may feel pricey for how long the actual making takes.
• If you’re buying it as a gift, make sure the recipient actually likes calm, hands-on experiences and smells.

Timing, Group Size, and How to Fit It Into a Chicago Day

This activity runs about 1 hour 15 minutes and keeps the group to a maximum of 20. That small size is a real advantage. You’re less likely to feel like you’re waiting for the instructor to catch up, and you can usually get help when you’re blending scents or pouring.

Because it’s on the Magnificent Mile, you can treat it as an anchor for the middle of your day. Do the class, then step back into the city right where you already are—ideal for grabbing lunch nearby or continuing with sightseeing without a complicated transit plan.

Also consider the pacing: fragrance creation can take time. One of the easiest ways to have a good experience is to show up with a calm mindset. If you rush decisions, your blend may not end up how you want. If you take your time, you’ll be happier with the candle you carry home.

If you’re going with friends or family, this is a friendly group activity that doesn’t require special skill. Reviews repeatedly describe it as fun for friend groups and celebrations, including birthday plans.

Where to Find It Fast: 900 North Michigan Shops Meeting Point Details

The meeting point is 900 Michigan Ave at the 900 North Michigan Shops area. In practice, that can be a little confusing without the store name, and a few people reported that it was tricky to find even with the address. One review also mentioned the class is on the 6th floor and that the store is called Reggie Hathorn.

So here’s your “arrive ready” plan:

• Search for the venue using the store name, not just the address.
• Build in a few extra minutes so you’re not stressed when it’s time to start.
• If you’re using a navigation app, confirm you’re heading to the right shop level.

Parking is not free. You can get parking validated ($12 for 3 hours), which is helpful if you’re driving, but still something to factor into your budget.

And if you’re relying on public transit, good news: it’s near public transportation. That’s a big advantage in Chicago, where parking can be a time tax.

Who Should Book This Candle Class (And Who Might Skip It)

This class fits best with people who like a hands-on, sensory activity and want a calm break in the middle of a city day.

You’ll likely love it if:

• you enjoy crafting and want a guided step-by-step experience
• you like customizing scents and making something personal
• you want a social activity that still feels relaxed
• you’re the type who likes reflection time, not just production time

You might think twice if:

• you only want a quick, low-effort activity
• you’re very price-sensitive and expect a longer seated event at this cost
• you’re highly sensitive to strong smells (you could still try it, but plan for olfactory fatigue)

For solo travelers, it’s still doable. Reviews suggest it can work well for solo visits too, especially if you want a structured, friendly environment.

Should You Book This Candle Making Class on Chicago’s Magnificent Mile?

Book it if you want something tactile, calming, and genuinely personal. For $75, you’re not buying a mass-made candle—you’re making an 8 oz soy candle with a custom fragrance, plus you get instruction and time to slow down. The central location on Michigan Avenue also makes it easy to pair with other Chicago plans without adding complexity.

Hold off if you mainly want long entertainment time or you’re expecting alcohol to be automatically provided beyond BYOB. Also, if you dislike navigating to the exact correct shop entrance and floor, give yourself extra time because a few people found directions confusing.

If you’re flexible on timing and open to creating at your own pace, this is the kind of activity that turns into a good story—and a candle you’ll keep.

FAQ

How long is the Chicago candle making class?

The class runs about 1 hour 15 minutes.

Where does the class meet?

It meets at 900 North Michigan Shops, 900 Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, USA.

What will I make during the class?

You’ll create an 8 oz custom candle using 100% soy wax, with fragrance customization. Vessels and other supplies are provided.

Is alcohol included?

BYOB is included, meaning you should plan on bringing your own.

What about parking?

Parking can be validated at $12 for 3 hours.

How many people are in the class?

The class has a maximum of 20 travelers.

Is it easy to get there without a car?

Yes, it is near public transportation.

If I bring my own food, do I get utensils?

No. If you bring your own food, you should know that utensils are not provided.

What is the cancellation policy?

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.