PITTSBURGH (PTTP) – When PGH Candle first launched in 2016, owner Kayla Branca never imagined the small-batch hobby she started at home would grow into a brick-and-mortar storefront, let alone a second location in the heart of downtown Pittsburgh.
Nearly a decade later, the locally loved candle brand is preparing to open The Studio by PGH Candle at 413 Wood St., expanding from its flagship shop on Pittsburgh’s North Side into a larger, more interactive creative space.
Heffernan started PGH Candle out of a desire to create something personal and meaningful, with the goal of capturing memories through scent. The business began with handcrafted, small-batch soy candles inspired by Pittsburgh neighborhoods, landmarks and culture. What started as pouring candles at home and selling at local markets steadily evolved into a full retail storefront as community demand increased.
The early years of growth came with challenges. Heffernan had to balance production with expansion while learning the ins and outs of inventory management, branding and finances, all while continuing to hand-pour every candle. Scaling production, securing retail space, and navigating the uncertainty of entrepreneurship were among the biggest hurdles.
Pittsburgh’s identity remains central to the brand. Many scents draw inspiration from the city’s neighborhoods, seasonal traditions and nostalgic experiences, creating products that feel distinctly local. Heffernan credits the Pittsburgh community as a driving force behind the company’s success, from loyal customers who prioritize shopping small to collaborations with other local businesses.
The downtown expansion represents more than just a second location. The Studio by PGH Candle was designed as an immersive, hands-on creative space. The Wood Street address was chosen for its accessibility, steady foot traffic and historic character. Heffernan said the building’s legacy aligns with her vision of blending tradition with creativity.
Unlike the North Side storefront, The Studio will feature a candle-making bar, private event space and interactive workshops. Customers will have the opportunity to blend fragrances, pour their own candles, and host celebrations in space. The new location will also introduce fresh flowers, custom hats and clothing, and a curated gift shop, expanding the brand beyond candles while maintaining its focus on intentional gifting and creative expression.
The Studio may also offer exclusive scents and limited collections unavailable at the North Side shop, giving customers new experiences with each visit. Workshops and private events are expected to become a central part of the downtown location’s programming.
Looking ahead, Heffernan hopes to continue building community-centered experiences while staying true to the authenticity that established PGH Candle’s reputation. She said running a candle business involves more science and logistics than many people realize, from testing fragrance blends to ensuring clean burns and consistent quality.
With the opening of The Studio downtown, PGH Candle’s next chapter reflects both its Pittsburgh roots and its continued growth of a local brand expanding its reach while remaining grounded in the city that inspired it.