The Wild Story: Candles That Evoke Memory, Myth and Place

There are fragrances that smell beautiful – and then there are fragrances that feel like something more. The Wild Story is very much the latter. Born in Cape Town and rooted in the wild botanicals of Africa, the artisanal scent and homeware brand offers candles with presence. Each piece is genderless, elemental and evocative — a tribute to landscapes, to memory, to mythology.

Founded by Katrina Macpherson, The Wild Story is a sensory journal of place and emotion; a collection of handcrafted scented objects that unfold in a space like chapters in a novel. Inspired by the raw, untamed nature of Africa and the ritual of storytelling, each item is designed to stir something primal and poetic within you.

Every crystal-topped candle is both decorative and purposeful, crafted to elevate daily routine and invite quiet moments of reflection. No two are alike — each one is shaped by nature and chosen for its unique beauty, meaning and personal resonance.

Everything is made slowly and intentionally, in small batches, using responsibly sourced essential oils and botanical ingredients. Whether it’s the sun-baked warmth of Soleil, the green pulse of Chapter 8 or the dusky sensuality of Magic Hour, each fragrance conjures a vivid scene. A wild story, indeed.

Their cult-status candles are poured into hand-cast porcelain vessels, topped with polished brass lids and hand-selected semi-precious stones in a brass jewellery setting. Designed to be used, refilled and treasured, these magical objects are both everyday tools and future heirlooms.

For those wanting to experience The Wild Story in person, the range is available at a growing list of curated stockists. This includes Cape Town’s Merchants on Long, Pezula Interiors and 43 Bree, or you can browse their candle collections online via their website.