Refund and Returns Policy

Last updated: May 5, 2026 

Our approach

We put a lot of care into every candle — in the wax blend, the fragrance, the pour, and the packaging. If something isn’t right, we want to hear about it and fix it. That said, because our candles are handmade to order and are consumable goods, our return policy has some practical limits we need to be upfront about.

What we can accept

Damaged in transit

If your order arrived broken, cracked, leaking, or otherwise damaged due to shipping, we’ll replace it or issue a refund — no questions asked. Just send us a message within 7 days of delivery with:

  • Your order number
  • A clear photo showing the damage to the product and/or packaging
  • Your preferred resolution: replacement or refund

Email us at gistoflight@gmail.com. We’ll respond within 1–2 business days and sort it out.

Wrong item received

If we sent you the wrong scent or product, we’ll make it right immediately at no cost to you. Keep the incorrect item — we won’t ask you to send it back.

Significant quality issue

If your candle has a genuine manufacturing defect — a wick that won’t light, extreme tunnelling from the very first burn, or a scent dramatically different from what was described — please reach out within 3 days. We’ll assess and offer a resolution on a case-by-case basis.

What we can’t accept

Change of mind

Because each candle is handmade to order, we’re unable to accept returns or issue refunds if you’ve simply changed your mind, chosen the wrong scent, or found a similar product elsewhere. We encourage you to read scent descriptions carefully and reach out before ordering if you have questions about a fragrance profile.

Used or partially burned candles

We cannot accept returns on candles that have been lit or used. Once a candle has been burned, it cannot be restocked or resold.

Scent preference

Fragrance is deeply personal. We do our best to describe every scent accurately — its notes, its mood, its intensity — but we can’t guarantee that a scent will suit your personal taste. Scent preference alone is not grounds for a return or refund.

If you’re unsure about a scent, feel free to message us before ordering. We’re happy to help you pick something you’ll love.

Exchanges

We do not offer direct exchanges. If your item is eligible for a return under the criteria above, we will issue a refund, and you’re welcome to place a new order for a different product.

How to request a refund or report an issue

Email gistoflight@gmail.com with the subject line “Order issue — [your order number]”. Include:

  • Your order number
  • A brief description of the issue
  • Photos if applicable (damaged items, wrong product)

We aim to respond to all order issues within 1–2 business days. Approved refunds are processed back to your original payment method within 5–10 business days, depending on your bank.

Gift orders

If you received a Gist of Light candle as a gift and there’s an issue with it, you’re welcome to contact us directly. We’ll do our best to help, though we may need to verify the original order details.

Sale and discounted items

Items purchased at a discounted price or during a sale are not eligible for refund unless they arrive damaged or defective. All sales are final, otherwise.