Dear Tom,
Thank you so much for taking this journey with me today for my blog series, “Tea For Two with Melanie Rose.” This series is all about connecting with the Creatives, Artisans, Designers, and Educators who share a deep passion for their work – and your story with Candle Delirium certainly embodies that.
Walk down Santa Monica Boulevard here in West Hollywood, and you might catch a whiff of something truly special: inviting notes of amber, vetiver, fig, or perhaps even smoked leather curling through the air. Follow your nose, and you’ll inevitably land at Candle Delirium. As part-owner of what's renowned as the world’s largest candle boutique, you and your team have curated more than just a store—it’s an olfactory playground, a haven for candle enthusiasts, and a purveyor of exquisite luxury designer candles.
Your store has been one of my trusted go-tos for sourcing candles for my own personal clients for as long as I can remember. I actually have fond memories of the smaller, original shop – maybe 1,500 sq ft? Seeing how Candle Delirium has grown into this incredible space, likely double in size and packed floor-to-ceiling with treasures, is truly inspiring. It really is a haven for enthusiasts like myself. So, let’s dim the lights metaphorically and go back to the beginning...
Thank you so much for taking this journey with me today for my blog series, “Tea For Two with Melanie Rose.” This series is all about connecting with the Creatives, Artisans, Designers, and Educators who share a deep passion for their work – and your story with Candle Delirium certainly embodies that.
Walk down Santa Monica Boulevard here in West Hollywood, and you might catch a whiff of something truly special: inviting notes of amber, vetiver, fig, or perhaps even smoked leather curling through the air. Follow your nose, and you’ll inevitably land at Candle Delirium. As part-owner of what's renowned as the world’s largest candle boutique, you and your team have curated more than just a store—it’s an olfactory playground, a haven for candle enthusiasts, and a purveyor of exquisite luxury designer candles.
Your store has been one of my trusted go-tos for sourcing candles for my own personal clients for as long as I can remember. I actually have fond memories of the smaller, original shop – maybe 1,500 sq ft? Seeing how Candle Delirium has grown into this incredible space, likely double in size and packed floor-to-ceiling with treasures, is truly inspiring. It really is a haven for enthusiasts like myself. So, let’s dim the lights metaphorically and go back to the beginning...
Candle Delirium is celebrated as the world’s largest candle store. How did that ambitious vision initially spark and come to life? Was 'world's largest' always the goal, or did that status evolve over time?
Anthony Carro, whom you know, is the original founder of Candle Delirium and it's truly his baby. The store is like all great passion projects - he loved luxury fragrances, but 20 years ago, being able to find more than one quality brand anywhere was virtually impossible. While most people thought he was crazy (like anyone who's passionate about something before everyone else gets it), he knew that if he was having issues finding all the scents he loved, so was everyone else.
From there, I think the growth of the industry, mixed with his passion, his nose (literally) and skill for presentation just allowed the store to become what it is organically. Becoming the "world's largest" wasn't necessarily the explicit goal, but a natural outcome of Anthony's dedication to creating the definitive destination for luxury candles.
What specifically inspired the creation of a candle-only concept store, focusing particularly on luxury and designer brands, especially back when that might have seemed quite niche? And why choose West Hollywood as the place to ignite this concept?
The concept really came from that personal need - Anthony wanted access to all the best luxury candle brands in one place, and that simply didn't exist. He recognized that gap in the market and filled it beautifully. West Hollywood was the perfect choice because of its appreciation for luxury, design, and the finer things. There are few other places in the world this concept could have been born. The neighborhood has a sophisticated clientele who understand quality and are willing to invest in products that enhance their homes and lifestyles.
Anthony Carro, whom you know, is the original founder of Candle Delirium and it's truly his baby. The store is like all great passion projects - he loved luxury fragrances, but 20 years ago, being able to find more than one quality brand anywhere was virtually impossible. While most people thought he was crazy (like anyone who's passionate about something before everyone else gets it), he knew that if he was having issues finding all the scents he loved, so was everyone else.
From there, I think the growth of the industry, mixed with his passion, his nose (literally) and skill for presentation just allowed the store to become what it is organically. Becoming the "world's largest" wasn't necessarily the explicit goal, but a natural outcome of Anthony's dedication to creating the definitive destination for luxury candles.
What specifically inspired the creation of a candle-only concept store, focusing particularly on luxury and designer brands, especially back when that might have seemed quite niche? And why choose West Hollywood as the place to ignite this concept?
The concept really came from that personal need - Anthony wanted access to all the best luxury candle brands in one place, and that simply didn't exist. He recognized that gap in the market and filled it beautifully. West Hollywood was the perfect choice because of its appreciation for luxury, design, and the finer things. There are few other places in the world this concept could have been born. The neighborhood has a sophisticated clientele who understand quality and are willing to invest in products that enhance their homes and lifestyles.
What truly makes the in-store experience here different from buying candles online or finding them tucked away in a large department store? How do you and your team guide customers through literally thousands of scents without it becoming overwhelming – is there an art to the 'olfactory consultation'?
At the base level, for me personally, scents are still just that thing you have to experience in person. I'm not buying anything I haven't actually been able to smell. But what our store does, that nowhere else in the world does, is let you discover. We have anyone and everyone that's high luxury quality. The store is an enchanted one-of-a-kind space for your nose to get lost in.
You can find your favorites, find something new, find something unique. Whatever you're looking for— or didn't even know you were looking for—you'll find with us. That experience really doesn't exist anywhere else. Department stores might have a handful of brands, and online shopping completely removes the sensory experience. We're creating an olfactory playground where people can truly explore.
We're chatting here in April 2025. Would you say candles have firmly shifted into being a personal wellness and lifestyle product more than ever before? How have you seen customer motivations change?
Wellness-wise, there is definitely a push toward candles with toxic-free ingredients. I believe most brands in the luxury space were already there and just weren't marketing it—either because of the high- quality ingredients they were already using, or they're now making changes to ensure they're part of
this trend.
With lifestyle, which is what I love seeing, people are truly starting to understand your home environment isn't just how it looks, it's how it feels, and scent is such an integral part of that. Scents can elicit all types of emotions and memories on their own. People are discovering how important quality and unique blends of fragrances designed by talented artists can enhance their entire day by adding aroma to their environment. It's gone from being just a decorative item to an essential part of home curation.
At the base level, for me personally, scents are still just that thing you have to experience in person. I'm not buying anything I haven't actually been able to smell. But what our store does, that nowhere else in the world does, is let you discover. We have anyone and everyone that's high luxury quality. The store is an enchanted one-of-a-kind space for your nose to get lost in.
You can find your favorites, find something new, find something unique. Whatever you're looking for— or didn't even know you were looking for—you'll find with us. That experience really doesn't exist anywhere else. Department stores might have a handful of brands, and online shopping completely removes the sensory experience. We're creating an olfactory playground where people can truly explore.
We're chatting here in April 2025. Would you say candles have firmly shifted into being a personal wellness and lifestyle product more than ever before? How have you seen customer motivations change?
Wellness-wise, there is definitely a push toward candles with toxic-free ingredients. I believe most brands in the luxury space were already there and just weren't marketing it—either because of the high- quality ingredients they were already using, or they're now making changes to ensure they're part of
this trend.
With lifestyle, which is what I love seeing, people are truly starting to understand your home environment isn't just how it looks, it's how it feels, and scent is such an integral part of that. Scents can elicit all types of emotions and memories on their own. People are discovering how important quality and unique blends of fragrances designed by talented artists can enhance their entire day by adding aroma to their environment. It's gone from being just a decorative item to an essential part of home curation.
Are there perennial cult favorites or specific best-selling candles that customers consistently return for?
There is always some shift in upcoming sellers, but the top brands hold for the most part, which makes sense since they've proven themselves. Diptyque, Voluspa, and Nest are always top sellers, but Cierra Molla has been really making names for themselves too.
Obviously, scents are subjective and even seasonal, so scent-wise it's always moving around. We see certain fragrances spike around holidays or with the changing seasons. Right now, we're seeing a lot of interest in more complex, layered scents that evolve as they burn.
Beyond just home fragrance, how do you view candles? Do you see them as sculptural objects, triggers for nostalgia, emotional anchors?
As I mentioned earlier with lifestyle, for me, it sets the mind. When I walk in the door somewhere, the scent is what really sets my mood and registers, before my eyes can even take in what I'm walking into. Candles are these things that elevate your stasis—whether that's relaxed, a sense of luxury, or maybe it's sexy and romantic.
They add an X factor to any environment, and nothing can replace that. They're emotional anchors in a way—think about how a certain scent can instantly transport you to a memory or place. That's powerful, and it's why people develop such strong connections to their favorite candles.
What trends are you noticing right now in the candle world? Are there specific scent notes gaining popularity, shifts in vessel design, or perhaps a stronger focus on sustainability from brands and customers?
We're seeing a big push toward sustainability—both in ingredients and packaging. Many luxury brands are moving toward clean-burning waxes, organic cotton wicks, and recyclable or reusable vessels. There's also been an interesting trend toward more complex, unique scent profiles. Gone are the days when everyone just wanted vanilla or lavender. Now customers are looking for sophisticated blends like fig leaf with vetiver and cedar, or black tea with patchouli and bergamot.
On the design side, we're seeing more artistic, sculptural vessels that become décor pieces even when not lit. Customers increasingly want the vessel to be as beautiful as the scent inside, something they can repurpose after the candle is gone.
There is always some shift in upcoming sellers, but the top brands hold for the most part, which makes sense since they've proven themselves. Diptyque, Voluspa, and Nest are always top sellers, but Cierra Molla has been really making names for themselves too.
Obviously, scents are subjective and even seasonal, so scent-wise it's always moving around. We see certain fragrances spike around holidays or with the changing seasons. Right now, we're seeing a lot of interest in more complex, layered scents that evolve as they burn.
Beyond just home fragrance, how do you view candles? Do you see them as sculptural objects, triggers for nostalgia, emotional anchors?
As I mentioned earlier with lifestyle, for me, it sets the mind. When I walk in the door somewhere, the scent is what really sets my mood and registers, before my eyes can even take in what I'm walking into. Candles are these things that elevate your stasis—whether that's relaxed, a sense of luxury, or maybe it's sexy and romantic.
They add an X factor to any environment, and nothing can replace that. They're emotional anchors in a way—think about how a certain scent can instantly transport you to a memory or place. That's powerful, and it's why people develop such strong connections to their favorite candles.
What trends are you noticing right now in the candle world? Are there specific scent notes gaining popularity, shifts in vessel design, or perhaps a stronger focus on sustainability from brands and customers?
We're seeing a big push toward sustainability—both in ingredients and packaging. Many luxury brands are moving toward clean-burning waxes, organic cotton wicks, and recyclable or reusable vessels. There's also been an interesting trend toward more complex, unique scent profiles. Gone are the days when everyone just wanted vanilla or lavender. Now customers are looking for sophisticated blends like fig leaf with vetiver and cedar, or black tea with patchouli and bergamot.
On the design side, we're seeing more artistic, sculptural vessels that become décor pieces even when not lit. Customers increasingly want the vessel to be as beautiful as the scent inside, something they can repurpose after the candle is gone.
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What are some of the unique rewards – and perhaps the biggest challenges – of running such a large, specialized, and beloved retail boutique in a dynamic neighborhood like West Hollywood?
Candles are like any small business. It's great when it succeeds and stressful when it doesn't. West Hollywood has been great to us. I could do the normal gripes that any business has with rents, taxes, and costs, but honestly, that's the cost of doing business in a metro that gives you the opportunity to be successful. The most rewarding part is definitely the customer reactions—seeing someone find "their" perfect scent and knowing it's going to bring them joy at home. We also love working with so many talented artisans and creators who put their heart into these products. Building relationships with both customers and vendors who share our passion for fragrance creates a wonderful community around the store. |
On a personal note, amidst this entire universe of fragrance, what’s your personal favorite candle scent right now? And what is it about that scent that appeals to you at this moment?
The truth is, and it is shameless self-promotion, but it's true—my favorite candle right now is Delirium Suede and Smoke or Delirium Firewood and Whiskey. This is the brand Anthony designed himself; Suede and Smoke is his signature scent. It's a one-of-a-kind smoky masculine fragrance that is just incredible.
Firewood and Whiskey taps into my personal love of firewood smells but has a wonderfully subtle sweet whiskey bourbon throw to it. It's been gone for five years, and we just got it back, and the whole line is unbelievable. Bringing back these signature scents has been one of my proudest contributions since joining Anthony in the business.
The truth is, and it is shameless self-promotion, but it's true—my favorite candle right now is Delirium Suede and Smoke or Delirium Firewood and Whiskey. This is the brand Anthony designed himself; Suede and Smoke is his signature scent. It's a one-of-a-kind smoky masculine fragrance that is just incredible.
Firewood and Whiskey taps into my personal love of firewood smells but has a wonderfully subtle sweet whiskey bourbon throw to it. It's been gone for five years, and we just got it back, and the whole line is unbelievable. Bringing back these signature scents has been one of my proudest contributions since joining Anthony in the business.
Tom, thank you for sharing such fascinating insights into the world of Candle Delirium. It's clear how much passion goes into it. Now, speaking of delightful sensory experiences, it’s definitely time for the 'Tea for Two' part of our chat. On a lovely California afternoon like this, a good cup of tea feels just right! I've brought three classics for you to choose from.
Earl Grey Lavender Tea. Earl Grey’s signature bergamot aroma is already reminiscent of many sophisticated candle blends.
Jasmine Green Tea. Subtle, floral, and fragrant — jasmine tea is light but deeply aromatic, like a delicate candle you’d burn during a relaxing bath.
Chai Masala. This warm, spiced tea is a hug in a cup.
Sugar? Yes or No?
Milk? Yes Or No?
Earl Grey Lavender Tea. Earl Grey’s signature bergamot aroma is already reminiscent of many sophisticated candle blends.
Jasmine Green Tea. Subtle, floral, and fragrant — jasmine tea is light but deeply aromatic, like a delicate candle you’d burn during a relaxing bath.
Chai Masala. This warm, spiced tea is a hug in a cup.
Sugar? Yes or No?
Milk? Yes Or No?
I'd definitely go for the Chai Masala—with almond milk and two Splenda (because I have a sweet tooth but also want abs!). There's something about those warm spices that just feels comforting and energizing at the same time.
Masala Chai with Almond Milk (Serves 2)
Step One Prepare & Infuse Spices
Lightly crush 4 green cardamom pods, 4-6 peppercorns, 2 cloves. Break 1 small cinnamon stick. Finely grate 1-inch ginger.
Simmer all spices in 1 cup of water for 10+ minutes for flavor.
Step Two Steep Tea
Add 2 tsp loose black tea (or 2 tea bags) to the spiced water. Simmer 2-3 more minutes.
Step Three Add Milk & Heat Gently
Stir in 1 to 1.5 cups almond milk.
Heat gently over medium-low heat just until hot and barely simmering (small bubbles at edges). DO NOT BOIL the almond milk.
Step Four Sweeten & Strain
Remove from heat. Stir in 2-4 tsp sweetener.
Strain the chai through a fine sieve into two mugs. (If using honey, stir it in after straining).
Now serve and enjoy!
Lightly crush 4 green cardamom pods, 4-6 peppercorns, 2 cloves. Break 1 small cinnamon stick. Finely grate 1-inch ginger.
Simmer all spices in 1 cup of water for 10+ minutes for flavor.
Step Two Steep Tea
Add 2 tsp loose black tea (or 2 tea bags) to the spiced water. Simmer 2-3 more minutes.
Step Three Add Milk & Heat Gently
Stir in 1 to 1.5 cups almond milk.
Heat gently over medium-low heat just until hot and barely simmering (small bubbles at edges). DO NOT BOIL the almond milk.
Step Four Sweeten & Strain
Remove from heat. Stir in 2-4 tsp sweetener.
Strain the chai through a fine sieve into two mugs. (If using honey, stir it in after straining).
Now serve and enjoy!
