Slow North Candles Help You End Your Toxic Relationship with Candles

A Conversation with Michelle Simmons, Founder of Slow North

Have you ever wanted to just slow down, take a moment to breathe, maybe light a candle and just not think about anything? That’s all Michelle Simmons wanted when she started making non-toxic Slow North candles.

Michelle, tell us about your journey. Thank you, Renee. Slow North began nine and a half years ago when I was on maternity leave with my son. I was already mindful about what we brought into our home, but with a newborn, I became hyper-aware of toxins—especially in candles. I couldn’t find any that were truly non-toxic, so I created my own: essential oil-based, transparently labeled, and sustainable. Over time, we’ve grown into a broader natural-living brand, but candles are still at the heart of it.

You’ve built this business over nearly a decade. What’s kept you going? Perseverance, for sure. I started with weekend pop-ups while working a full-time sales job. When I saw the positive response, I slowly transitioned to Slow North full-time. We poured candles in my house, then sublet a retail space, and now have a dedicated Austin studio. There were moments it could’ve ended—like during COVID—but believing in the mission kept me going.

Your workshops and refill bars are so unique. Why focus on community experiences? People crave connection beyond screens. Our candle-making classes let guests blend their own scents with essential oils—it’s hands-on and personal. The refill bar (where customers reuse vessels) ties into our sustainability values. It’s not just about selling products; it’s about fostering a mindset shift toward slower, intentional living.

Many don’t realize how toxic everyday products can be. How do you educate customers? Transparency is key. If a candle has geranium oil, we say so—no hidden “fragrance” labels. Synthetic fragrances can disrupt hormones, but most people don’t know that until they discover alternatives. We also design with sustainability in mind: linen sprays in glass bottles, weighted wraps filled with lentils—small choices that add up.

Self-care is central to Slow North. How do you define it beyond products? Real self-care isn’t a spa day; it’s daily practices. For me, that’s therapy, clean eating, and yes, our neck wraps heated up at night! Especially for women, who carry so much mental load, it’s about boundaries and saying, “This is enough.” Our products are tools, but the work happens within.

What’s next for Slow North? Dreaming bigger! A retreat center where people can gather for immersive experiences. More collaborations with aligned brands. And we’re merging our shop and studio to highlight how things are made—transparency from start to finish.

Any advice for aspiring entrepreneurs? Hold onto your “why.” The world needs what you’re doing, even when it’s hard. Find your community, stay adaptable, and remember: small steps create lasting change.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Discover more products from our Slow North Candle Collection on Here I Am.

Learn more about Michelle Simmons at her website, Slow North. 

This interview has been edited and condensed from my conversation with Michelle. To hear the full interview, find it and follow Here I Am on our YouTube channel.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------