Candlelight with a Cause: A Conversation with Cubie Vinson of Candle Caboodle

In a world full of synthetic scents and mass-produced products, Cubie Vinson is a breath of fresh, toxin-free air. The Westport, Connecticut-based maker behind Candle Caboodle isn’t just lighting wicks—she’s igniting change. As a chronic illness warrior with a fierce heart and a deeply artistic spirit, Cubie has turned her sensitivities into superpowers by handcrafting candles that are as clean as they are beautiful.

Each small-batch candle she creates reflects her personal journey toward wellness and intentional living. From coconut shell candles to skull-shaped beauties for spooky season, breast cancer awareness tributes, and a candle created in support of Israel after October 7, Cubie’s line reflects both her values and her versatility. Whether you’re looking for natural home fragrance or a statement piece to support a cause, Candle Caboodle is where purpose meets design.

We sat down with Cubie to learn more about what sparked her journey and what continues to keep her flame burning bright.

The Story Behind the Flame

Q: What inspired you to start Candle Caboodle? Was there a lightbulb moment that sparked this journey into clean candle-making?

Cubie: The frustration of wanting to burn a candle but getting sick to my stomach or getting a migraine from store-bought candles is what triggered it. Even ones labeled “natural artisan candles” would still make me sick. That led me down a rabbit hole of discovery into the deception of the candle industry. The term “all natural” has become more about perception than fact.

We’re slowly being poisoned by candles pumped with synthetic ingredients and chemically treated wax. I was infuriated. So I wanted to see if I could do better.

Q: Tell us about your very first candle. What did it smell like? How did it look?

Cubie: The very first candle I made to sell was a Lavender & Rosemary Coconut Shell candle. Lavender for calm, rosemary to invigorate. I chose a coconut shell because I wanted something unique and sustainable—plus, how cool is a coconut shell?! I decorated it with crushed rose petals, rose buds, and lavender flowers to create a sense of beauty and grace. No matter how I felt, just staring at it, lit or unlit, brought me joy. To my surprise, it became an instant hit, and it’s still my best seller to this day!

Q: You’ve created a product that marries wellness and aesthetics. How did your background or lifestyle shape this?

Cubie: I grew up in a home where synthetic everything was normalized—from what we put in the air to what we put on our bodies. We ate processed foods and praised GMO products. As I developed health issues and sensitivities, I was only given “bandaid” treatments—never real solutions.

Candle Caboodle represents a pivotal moment in my life when I realized I had to make serious lifestyle changes to help myself, even if it meant going against the grain. I’ve always been artsy and crafty, so when I finally started making candles years later, it felt natural and fun. Still does 😊

Crafting Beauty, Sustainability & Scent

Q: Why beeswax and organic coconut oil? What makes your candle base different?

Cubie: Most waxes, even those claiming to be natural, are chemically treated. Beeswax is the only truly all-natural wax. It even has proven health benefits. When burned, it releases negative ions that attach to positively charged particles like mold, allergens, or toxins—essentially purifying the air.

I blend in organic coconut oil to soften beeswax, which is quite hard on its own. This gives my candles a more consistent burn and a stronger scent throw.

Q: Your use of natural, historically-rooted dyes is fascinating. Tell us more.

Cubie: Synthetic dyes are made from petroleum, completely toxic to burn. Through research and a lot of trial and error, I learned about historic and cosmetic-grade dyes that can be used as safer alternatives in candles. These dyes allow me to bring color into my candles without compromising health.

Q: Where do you find inspiration for your scent blends?

Cubie: I’m inspired by a mix of things—trends, nature, even history. But most often, I’m trying to recreate toxic favorites safely. People form emotional bonds with scents. Just telling someone to throw out their favorite candle isn’t enough; they need a healthier version that brings them that same comfort. If I can help someone make that switch, that’s everything to me.

Running a Values-Driven Business

Q: You’ve received some amazing recognition. What did those moments mean to you?

Cubie: Winning Best Home-Based Business and being nominated for a World E-Commerce Award meant everything. I was completely shocked both times. It showed me that something I built with so much intention and care resonated with others in a big way. I’m just so grateful.

Q: What role does design play in wellness for you?

Cubie: Growing up, my dad did most of the cleaning, but he didn’t decorate. He’d say, “It doesn’t have to be pretty, just clean.” But I always thought, why not both? Our environments affect us emotionally. My home didn’t feel good to me. It felt cold and chaotic.

When I started making candles, I wanted to change that. I wanted to show that practicality can be beautiful. That beauty can elevate our mood and bring emotional healing. My candles are more than functional—they’re décor, gifts, art, and intention.

The Glow-Up

Q: What’s your most popular collection right now?

Cubie: Definitely my Message Candles. People are done with cookie-cutter. They want something personal and thoughtful. These candles speak directly to the heart and that’s why they resonate.

Q: Do you see Candle Caboodle expanding into retail, collaborations, or wholesale?

Cubie: Absolutely! I have an exciting collaboration in the works with a top influencer from Greenwich, Connecticut—she’s a well-known, beloved mom with a large platform. I believe this partnership will help bring clean candles into more homes and open more eyes to the harmful ingredients in traditional ones.

In the past, my candles were sold at several local businesses, and I’m always looking for more permanent homes. I do offer wholesale pricing for bulk orders of 10+ candles and am open to thoughtful partnerships with like-minded shops.

Final Thoughts

Cubie Vinson is proof that small businesses can do big things when rooted in purpose. Candle Caboodle isn’t just a brand—it’s a movement toward cleaner living, emotional wellness, and meaningful design. Each candle holds a story, whether it’s a pink wax tribute to Breast Cancer Awareness, a hauntingly beautiful skull candle for Halloween, or a bold, comforting light in support of Israel.

If you’re looking for a gift that soothes the soul, brightens your space, or makes a statement—look no further. Connect with Cubie at Candle Caboodle Naturals or follow her on Instagram at @candle_caboodle.

✨ Your wellness deserves beauty. Your home deserves clean candles. And Cubie deserves your support.