Our Story
A Little Light in the Heart of Gardiner..
Nestled in a cozy shop on historic Main Street, Little Light of Mine Village Candle brings the warmth and artistry of handcrafted candles to the heart of Gardiner. Founded by Ingrid Heins, the shop has become a local favorite, celebrated by both residents and visitors alike for its one-of-a-kind candles, community events, and commitment to sustainability.
Ingrid, a lifelong resident of the Hudson Valley, has always had a special connection to Gardiner. “Everybody buys candles. Everybody likes candles,” she says. This simple truth became the foundation for Little Light of Mine, which opened its doors six years ago.
At the time, Ingrid was looking to break away from the corporate world she had worked in for many years. She wanted to start something more creative, more personal—something she could share with her family and the community she loves.
The Craft of Candle-Making
For Ingrid, candle-making is both a craft and a science. “It’s like a science experiment,” she explains. “You have to perfect it through trial and error.” Over time, Ingrid refined her methods and developed her signature collection of non-toxic, high-quality candles. Each one is hand-poured in the shop, made with care from non-toxic waxes, cotton wicks, and clean fragrances that are free of harmful chemicals or unnecessary additives like dyes.
“I’m proud of what I make,” Ingrid says. “My candles aren’t just affordable—they’re safe, natural, and made right here in the shop.” Compared to candles you might find on Main Street, where an 8-ounce jar could cost $32, Little Light of Mine candles are nearly half the price, offering a more sustainable and locally crafted option.
Inspired by the Hudson Valley...
Little Light of Mine candles are more than just products—they’re a reflection of the beauty and spirit of the Hudson Valley. Ingrid’s signature scents draw directly from local landmarks and experiences, including:
- Lake Minnewaska
- Shawangunk Wine Trail
- New Paltz Sunflower
- Hike the Ridge
These scents have become staples in the shop, alongside seasonal favorites that change with the time of year. For customers browsing online, Ingrid’s soy jar candles are the most popular, while her hand-dipped taper candles are a best-seller on Etsy.
Sustainability at Heart
From the beginning, Ingrid has prioritized sustainability in her business. “I don’t just want to make candles—I want to make them responsibly,” she explains.
Ingrid encourages customers to bring back their empty candle jars, offering a $1 discount on their next purchase for each jar returned. The jars are cleaned, reused, and repurposed into new candles, keeping waste out of landfills. Additionally, the shop offers refillable room diffusers and car diffusers, which can be brought back to be refilled at half the original price.
By focusing on biodegradable materials, reusable packaging, and eco-conscious processes, Little Light of Mine is doing its part to make sustainable candle-making accessible for everyone.
What people are saying about us?
Visit Us in Gardiner
Stop by our cozy shop on Main Street in the heart of Gardiner, New York to explore our candles, join a workshop, or just enjoy the ambiance and say hello!