Our Story
Our Story
SoyLites was founded in 2007 by Nicole and Colin Skelton with a simple vision: to create natural soy candles and wellness products that enhance everyday living by engaging the senses.
Our journey began much earlier. More than three decades ago, Colin discovered an article in Hawaii about the growing popularity of soybean oil candles in the United States. At the time, his father, Rob Skelton, and stepmother, Ann, were established candle manufacturers in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, through their company Candle Creations.
Inspired by the potential of soy wax, Rob began researching and experimenting with this innovative natural material. His work led to the development of premium soy candles that burned cleanly, released fragrance beautifully, and offered a remarkable additional benefit.
Working closely with suppliers, Rob helped develop a specialised soy wax blend rich in natural Vitamin E and Lecithin. When warmed, this wax transformed into a luxurious body oil that could be applied directly to the skin, nourishing and moisturising while delivering the relaxing benefits of aromatherapy. This unique concept laid the foundation for what would later become the SoyLites brand.
When Colin and Nicole learned they were expecting their first child, they felt inspired to build something meaningful together. Combining Colin's family heritage in candle manufacturing with Nicole's creativity and entrepreneurial spirit, they launched SoyLites in South Africa.
What began in a small room has grown into one of South Africa's leading natural candle and wellness brands.
Today, SoyLites manufactures a wide range of premium products, including:
- Natural soy candles
- Massage candles
- Moisturising candles
- Aromatherapy products
- Essential oil diffuser refills
- Body balms
- Solid perfumes
- Luxury beauty oils
- Hydrosols
- Rainbow Rocks soy wax crayons
Our flagship 220ml Classic Soy Tumbler was the first soy candle of its kind in South Africa and remains one of our most loved products. In 2010, it received the Fair Lady Consumer Awards award for Best Health and Wellness Product in South Africa.
At SoyLites, innovation and quality are at the heart of everything we do. We source the finest ingredients and continually develop products that combine natural wellness, aromatherapy, and sensory experience. Wherever possible, we support local suppliers and proudly manufacture our products in South Africa.
Today, SoyLites is more than a candle company. We are a wellness brand dedicated to creating products that help people relax, restore, and reconnect with themselves and their surroundings.
Thank you for being part of our story.
Burn Bright!
Nicole and Colin Skelton
