What’s special: Because they are made using a plant-based wax, soy candles tend to burn longer than regular candles. Umbra Essence’s soy candles also contain twice as much fragrance as other candles and use a 3/4-inch wide wooden wick, which burns hotter and brighter than cotton wicks, Mosey said.

The origin story: Mosey said developing the right combination of fragrances and container shape for her soy candles took several years, but it was worth the effort because soy candles are the wave of the future. “I keep up with the trends of candle making and the new products on the market,” she said. “Once soy wax hit the market, there was a big demand for it.

How long does it take to make: Container candles take five hours, from melting the wax to placing the finished product on the shelf. Pillars require two days to solidify in the mold and cure in the open air before being packaged.

Where it’s sold: Umbra Essence’s website and the St. Elmo gallery as well as at Plum Nelly (330 Frazier Ave.).

How long has the company been making them: Umbra Essence was founded in 2002. The soy candle line was released in June.

Future expansions planned: Mosey said she is interested in expanding her soy candle line into tapers and making her own molds for sculptural candles using more abstract shapes.

Lessons of the trade: “Start small and let it grow organically, (and don’t) bite off more than you can chew,” Mosey said. “Try different avenues and try to be as open and creative as you can to new ways of thinking and advertising and try not to stay limited with your options.”