Candle creation began as a hobby two years ago for Andalusia resident Paula DeCheck but now the process has grown into a passion she hopes to share with the county.

DeCheck’s home business, So Simply Soy, uses candle supplies delivered by CandleWealth International to create beautiful, fragrant, toxin free candles for the common household.

According to DeCheck soy wax candles can help to drastically improve anyone’s household.

“There is a big difference between a paraffin candle and a soy candle,” she said. “Paraffin is actually derived from petroleum. When people are burning paraffin candles in their home they are actually released carcinogens into the air. The soy based is actually a soybean that is broken down and made into wax. Paraffin is a hot burning solution so it will burn your skin if poured on you. The soy-based wax is a cool burn and will not burn your skin.”

Paraffin candles are the most common type of candle found in department stores and can be difficult to clean off of surfaces, especially carpet, when a candle in spilled. Soy-based candles, according to DeCheck burn cooler and spills are cleaned easily with soap and water.

“The wax is derived from vegetables,” she said. “It is non-toxic and it is 100 percent biodegradable. If you just pour it on your skin it doesn’t burn and you can actually rub it into your skin. Massage therapists can use it to enhance sessions.

“A lot of time with paraffin candles you do not smell the fragrance as much when you burn them,” she added. “The smell you get from soy candles when they are not lit is the same smell you will receive when you light the candles. The scent tends to travel further, often filling the entire home, and last longer.”

DeCheck said CandleWealth International allows anyone to create a candle making shop in their home and the rewards of opening a personal candle shop are limitless.

“One of the best things about making your own candles is that you can make them as strong as you want,” she said. “Some people like a strong smelling candle and it will go through your entire house to make it smell good.”

For more information about creating soy candles from your home or purchasing handmade soy candles contact Paula E. DeCheck at (334) 804-4046 or visit www.candlewealth.com.