The beginnings of my Etsy shop, Wicks and Willow, came somewhat unexpectedly. One day I was buying supplies to make a candle from Hobby Lobby, and the next it seemed, I was a licensed business, selling tea cup candles to my friends and family. Since then, I have opened my Etsy shop, and started a blog and Facebook page to show customers an behind the scenes look at how my candles are made.

I have been crafting and creating things for friends and family since I was a child. There hasn't been a Christmas since I was seven years old that I didn't give gifts that I had crafted. From hand-painted wooden keepsake boxes, to decoupage picture frames, to personalized cork boards, everyone in my family has something (or many things) "Melissa Made".

I had been inspired to start my own Etsy shop for many months, but just hadn't found the right unique creation. One day I looked at a set of 26 tea cups I had picked up several months ago at the Habitat for Humanity Home Store (for $5), and an idea popped into my mind- CANDLES!

Let me point out, there are many artisans who make tea cup candles, even on Etsy. But, my selection is what sets my shop apart. Not only do I sell antique tea cups candle with saucers, but I also have a more modern line, for those who aren't into the vintage look. The most unique items I offer are monogrammed tea cup candles. You won't find those anywhere else on Etsy, or even Google for that matter. I also create custom mason jar candles, that are available in any one, two, or three color combinations, as well as a variety of scents.

After months of trial and error, my candles are smooth, fragrant, and made with all-natural soy wax, which is better for the environment and your own health because there are no toxins that are released into the air when the candle burns.

You will also see various vintage collectables, like Blue Ball Mason Jars, Milk Glass Bowls, Antique tins, and other flea market finds.

Antique-ing, yard sale-ing, and estate sale-ing are some of mine and my husband's favorite past times, and we love sharing some of our unique finds on Etsy.

I hope you will explore my Etsy shop. The candles make excellent gifts for any occasion, especially birthdays, anniversaries, Christmas, housewarming, teachers, employees, and shower hostesses.