About Us

On Christmas Day in 2015, we created Element Candles by chance. Hannah's nose is overpowered by the nauseating scent of, well, rather cheap candles. But we love the holiday season and the smells that come with it! That's when Joe was inspired and thought, "Hey, I could make that!" — you know, as one software-developer-turned-chandler does. Joe set out to craft a candle that Hannah could enjoy in their home.

When we started making our candles, we were operating out of the garage with a turkey deep fryer McGuivered into a wax melter. Boy oh boy, how times have changed. Turns out, a lot of people have similar allergies to unnatural ingredients as Hannah. That, and a lot more people just really love good quality candles. 

This little engine that could has grown significantly over the years, and in 2020, we expanded our brand from strictly candles into the beauty and body care industry. We are proud to introduce our overarching brand, Othos, standing for "our ethos." 

We're a conscious lifestyle brand. Our products are carefully and consciously designed with honesty, health, wellness, and efficacy in mind, from ingredients, packaging, and manufacturing. We never test on animals, use parabens, or phthalates. Othos and Element products are still handmade in Charleston, South Carolina, except now with an entire warehouse and real wax melters.

We may have perfected our craft and gotten high-quality machines, but the spirit of experimentation and innovation still runs deep. We're constantly searching for new products and opportunities to keep our returning customers satisfied and new customers loyal. 

We hope you enjoy our creation as much as we do. Thanks for being on this wild journey with us!

Hugs, Hannah & Joe