There’s a reason Charleston leaves such a lasting impression for visitors. Maybe it’s the scent of salt air drifting down Church Street, the feel of sun-warmed cobblestones underfoot, or the way a long brunch rolls effortlessly into an afternoon stroll. When you fall in love with a place, it’s only natural to want to bottle a bit of it up and bring it home.

At Charleston Candle Co., we believe the best souvenirs aren’t just things, they’re storytellers. That’s why we’ve curated a list of local treasures that capture the essence of our city and preserve the memories you’ve made here. Whether you’re shopping for a gift, packing your suitcase, or planning a return trip, consider this your guide to meaningful, Charleston-made mementos.

Few things bring back a memory like scent. Our candles are designed to do exactly that—transport you to your favorite Charleston moments with every light.

• No. 02 Church Street: A timeless blend of gardenia and jasmine that mirrors the soft elegance of Charleston’s most picturesque thoroughfare.

• No. 14 Sullivan’s Island: Violet, ozone, and oakmoss evoke lazy summer days by the sea and the hush of waves rolling in.

• No. 11 Pineapple Fountain: A fragrant tribute to Charleston’s iconic symbol of hospitality, with bright citrus and warm musk.

Tip: Our 4 oz. travel tins make perfect gifts and are easy to tuck into carry-ons or welcome bags.

For the host or homebody, these local finds turn everyday moments into celebrations.

• Grit & Grace Studio – Decorative oyster shell dishes, jewelry, and ornaments made sustainably from recycled local shells and hand-painted with care.

• Gullah Sweetgrass Baskets by Andrea Cayetano-Jefferson – A centuries-old art form passed down through generations of Gullah Geechee artisans, these coiled baskets are both stunning and functional. You’ll often find Andrea at local markets sharing her family’s craft.

Why not wear your memories?

• Goldbug Collection – Inspired by Charleston’s own barrier island, this jewelry line founded by Croghan’s Jewel Box’s turns local lore into statement pieces.

• The Tiny Tassel – This woman and global majority led company designs joyful, color-splashed clothing and accessories in-house - every piece radiates charm and their boutique is just down the street from Charleston Candle Co.

Perfect for gifting, journaling, or framing.

• The Paper Canopy – A celebration of tactile beauty: elegant stationery, wax seals, and wrapping paper made to turn the everyday into something extraordinary.

• Rebecca Illustrated – Whimsical, watercolor-forward art prints that capture Charleston’s coastal scenes, gardens, and porches with irresistible warmth.

Savor Charleston—long after your suitcase is unpacked.

• Oliver Pluff & Co. – Historic Charleston tea blends inspired by colonial traditions and packaged to perfection.

• Edisto Gold Honey – A sweet souvenir from the Kiawah River, produced on a blueberry farm that doubles as a pollinator haven.

Memories can’t always be wrapped—and that’s what makes them magical.

• Charleston Candle Co. Candle-Making Workshop: Pour, blend, and create your own signature candle in our downtown studio. It’s a hands-on way to craft a scent memory that’s 100% you.

• Gibbes Museum of Art Gift Shop: Pick up local art, artisan gifts, and Charleston-themed books after wandering the galleries of one of the South’s most treasured cultural landmarks.

• Pack with care: Wrap fragile items (like candles and ceramics) in soft clothing or bubble wrap.

• Support small: Every purchase from a local maker helps preserve Charleston’s creative spirit and small business community.

• Ship it home: Many shops - including ours - offer in-store shipping if your suitcase is tight.

When we think of souvenirs, we think of moments—small and sensory, sweet and sunlit. At Charleston Candle Co., we’re honored to be part of that story. Whether it’s the flicker of a familiar scent or a thoughtfully handcrafted item on your nightstand, in your closet, or at the center of your kitchen table, we hope you carry a little piece of the Lowcountry with you wherever you go.

Visit us in Charleston at 218 St. Philip Street or  shop our signature collection online .

• Bookmark this guide for your next visit

• Sign up for a  candle-making class

• Follow our favorite makers on Instagram to keep the inspiration going