The Story Behind Our Cocktail Candle Collection

Where passion for hospitality meets the art of ambiance

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From Behind the Bar to Behind the Brand

After spending over two decades immersed in the wine and spirits industry, there's one thing I've learned: hospitality is as much about creating an experience as it is about serving drinks. As a professional who has lived and breathed this world, I noticed how scent plays a crucial role in setting the mood for an unforgettable evening.

My husband and I founded Cork & Shaker Co. with a simple mission: to enhance the craft and experience of hospitality professionals. Our journey led us to create something that captures the essence of a perfectly crafted cocktail experience—without a single drop of alcohol.

Crafting Memories Through Scent

Each candle in our collection tells a story—a memory from behind the bar, a favorite cocktail, or a moment shared over a glass of something special. We wanted to bottle these experiences in a way that both professionals and enthusiasts could bring into their spaces.

Our candles aren't just products; they're an extension of the hospitality experience we've dedicated our lives to perfecting.

The Collection: Handcrafted with Care

Every candle in our Cocktail Collection is hand-poured right here in the USA using 100% coconut apricot wax—a sustainable choice that provides a clean, long-lasting burn. Whether housed in amber or clear glass jars topped with elegant gold lids, each candle is designed to complement the sophisticated environments where great drinks are served and enjoyed.

Meet the Family

Our collection has grown to include eight distinctive scents, each inspired by beloved cocktails and bar environments:

  • Teak & Tonic: Fresh sea salt mingles with bright orange peel, evoking that first refreshing sip of a perfectly made G&T.

  • Nightcap Spice: Warm chai spices blend with orange peel, creating the comforting ambiance of that final evening drink.

  • Lavender Fog: A delicate balance of soothing lavender and uplifting citrus notes—like a creative twist on a classic cocktail.

  • Buttercream Old Fashioned: Rich vanilla meets the warmth of bourbon in this dessert-inspired take on a timeless favorite.

  • Fir & Fernet: Crisp cypress and zesty lemon combine in an homage to complex, herbaceous after-dinner drinks.

  • Island Spritz: Tropical fruits transport you to vacation mode—think beachside cocktails and ocean breezes.

  • Late Night Lounge: Sophisticated florals and subtle musk recreate the intimate atmosphere of an exclusive cocktail bar after hours.

  • Sweet Noir: Warm musk and luscious berries blend in this mysterious, indulgent scent that's perfect for evening gatherings.

More Than Just Candles

For us, these candles represent the intersection of our passion for hospitality and our desire to create products that truly serve industry professionals. Whether used to set the mood in a wine bar, create ambiance for a tasting event, or bring the essence of a favorite watering hole home, our Cocktail Candle Collection is designed with the discerning palates of beverage professionals in mind.

Join Our Journey

As we continue to develop products that celebrate and enhance the craft of hospitality, we invite you to experience the Cork & Shaker difference. Our candles are just the beginning of our mission to create tools and accessories that honor the art of service.

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