Last year, BrownStyle Magazine pulled up to the first annual Candle Con in Philadelphia, not knowing exactly what to expect. Within minutes, we discovered that shopping for candles with fellow candle enthusiasts was a total vibe!
From the moment we stepped into the building, the air was filled with the sweet aroma of candles displayed by different vendors all over the tri-state area. From eye-catching candles shaped like your favorite soul food to handcrafted luxury candles that smelled expensive, we were in LOVE.
Dressed from head to toe in creamy white, event founder Meeka Johnson made a point to welcome every guest. Inside, the energy was electric as the DJ did her thing, spinning the perfect soundtrack for a day full of positive energy, shopping, and even a little line dancing (yes, we joined in!). Every detail was thoughtful. And the professionalism of the staff, led by Marla Campbell Harris, made us feel like family.
“My spirit told me to do Candle Con,” Meeka shared with BrownStyle Magazine exclusively. “Sneaker Con was in Philly, and I just asked a question on Instagram—would y’all be down to do a Candle Con? The response was phenomenal. So I moved forward with planning.”
The Inspiration Behind Candle Con
Meeka’s love for candles runs even deeper. It was rooted in childhood memories, especially being a girl from Philly. “I love to smell good. I’d attribute that to my mom and all the scents I grew up with. She keeps a beautiful home. Always a sanctuary.”
That feeling of sanctuary and soul sets Candle Con apart, which will host its second annual event this weekend. “Candle Con is different because it’s fly,” Meeka said, laughing. “We mix creativity with candles. We spend the money where it matters — on marketing and the venue. We don’t cut corners. And every year, there’s a new theme to keep it fresh.”
And fresh it is. This year, you can expect live performances, candle-making bars, and more! Guests can also expect a line dance performance and a group therapy session to nourish the mind and spirit.
BrownStyle Magazine Launches First-Event ‘Lit Lounge’ At Candle Con
BrownStyle Magazine will debut its first-ever “Lit Lounge” during the highly anticipated event to interview noted guests and vendors! (Be sure to follow @brownstyle on Instagram for the Candle Con recap!)
When curating such an unforgettable experience, Meeka leaves nothing to chance. “It always starts with the vendors,” she explained. “We start the day with meditation. We help with loading in, parking for vendors and guests, and an accessible location close to public transportation. We think about all of it.”
Creating a legacy like this isn’t for the faint of heart. Ask anyone, event planning can truly be stressful. When we asked Meeka about self-care while managing an event of this size, she honestly responded: “I don’t.”
She explained, “Nobody ever says that, but most of the time, I don’t. I’d love to be at the beach right now, but I’m here getting everything done. My self-care is knowing I did everything I could. The rest is up to the universe.”
That realness is exactly why Meeka wanted BrownStyle Magazine as a media sponsor this year. “I love y’all,” she said. “BrownStyle is the vibe!”
Before we let her go, we had to ask what Candle Con would smell like if it had a signature scent. “Kemi oil!” she said without missing a beat, laughing. “Y’all remember Kemi oil?”
Be sure to get your tickets for Candle Con at Black Soul Summer!
Editor’s Note: This story has been edited and condensed for clarity.
By BrownStyle Magazine in Special Editions
72 pages, published 1/17/2025
