Katama Candle Company's Story

Katama Candle Company was born out of Amanda’s deep desire to create something with her hands that brings joy, not only to herself but to others as well. After years of balancing the things she loved like reading, birdwatching, sunset walks on South Beach with her dog, time with friends, ocean swims, and exploring Land Bank and Sheriff’s Meadow properties, with a demanding 9–5 marketing job, Amanda decided it was time for a change. She left corporate America to pursue freelance marketing work on Martha’s Vineyard, giving herself more time for the activities that brought her happiness.

Just two weeks later, Amanda’s mother passed away unexpectedly. Stricken with grief and searching for something grounding, she turned to a long-time love: candles. She spent months researching, hand-pouring in her Katama kitchen, testing, and refining while falling deeply in love with the process. Candle making became a form of therapy, a way to channel loss into light. Inspired by the island she now called home, Amanda began creating scents that captured her favorite places and memories across Martha’s Vineyard. And so, Katama Candle Company came to life.

At Katama Candle Company, the mission is simple: to spark joy through island-inspired scents. Amanda holds steadfast to values that matter deeply to her: sustainability, craftsmanship, and a handmade touch. She uses 100% natural soy wax and phthalate-free fragrances, testing each batch for quality and consistency.

From concept to final pour, Amanda’s heart is in every step. She hand-pours each candle, cures them for over two weeks to ensure a strong scent throw, and carefully selects vessels and lids that complement any home. Every label is hand-applied with precision and care.

Each fragrance tells a story, capturing the nostalgia and beauty of island life. Whether it’s the serene Menemsha Sunset, the refreshing Katama Breeze, or the comforting Cedar Tree Neck, every candle is a tribute to the peace, wonder, and light Amanda found on Martha’s Vineyard.