From the frontlines to fragrance: Army veteran’s candle business shines on Long Island

Alex Moffitt, founder of Candle De Lite in Baldwin, NY, offers a unique twist on nightlife with interactive candle-making classes that encourage creativity and socializing.
Photo by Tracey Khan

Alex Moffitt created a solution after he noticed a shortage of fun, affordable activities outside the typical club and lounge scene. The Queens native and U.S. military service member owns Candle De-Lite, a candle-making store in Baldwin, Long Island, that offers a vibrant, interactive experience.

“I wanted to open something fun where people could go for a date night or a girls’ night out without always being about clubs,” Moffitt said. “Everyone loves candles, so I thought, why not combine that with a lounge vibe?”

At Candle De Light, guests can participate in candle-making classes that double as lively social events. The BYOB venue features karaoke, games, and a relaxed, upscale atmosphere where patrons can create personalized candles while enjoying their favorite drinks.

At Candle De Lite, guests can create personalized candles in a variety of jars, all while enjoying their favorite drinks, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere, and belting out tunes during karaoke.
At Candle De Lite, guests can create personalized candles in a variety of jars, all while enjoying their favorite drinks, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere, and belting out tunes during karaoke. Photo by Tracey Khan

The candle-making process is designed to be easy and enjoyable. Customers start by choosing from approximately 40 different jar styles, with prices ranging from $45 to $60. After selecting a jar, they insert wood wicks — chosen for their elegance and slower burn time—and blend custom fragrances from exclusive scents not found in stores.

“I want the candles to be completely unique to you,” Moffitt said. “Nobody else can duplicate what you made here.”

A happy customer proudly displays her custom-made candle during a one-on-one session at Candle De Lite, where guests craft unique candles that reflect their style. Photo by Tracey Khan

Guests can customize their candles with colors, glitter, dried flowers, rhinestones, and other decorative toppings, turning each candle into a masterpiece. During drying, the lounge atmosphere kicks into high gear with music, games, and karaoke.

Candle De Lite also offers private event rentals. For $1,000, customers can rent out the entire space for five hours, bringing their food, drinks, and even a DJ.

Candle De Lite will be hosting a Mother’s Day candle-making experience that combines fun, creativity, and delicious brunch and dinner options.
Candle De Lite will be hosting a Mother’s Day candle-making experience that combines fun, creativity, and delicious brunch and dinner options. Photo by Tracey Khan

“I wanted it to be affordable,” Moffitt said. “We’re heading into a recession, and people still need places to celebrate and have fun without breaking the bank.”

Beyond Candle De Lite, Moffitt keeps a packed schedule. He owns The Real Deal LLC, a car dealership in New Jersey, and a party bus company based in New York and Mississippi. He continues to serve in the U.S. military and is pursuing a degree in business to set an example for his daughters. 

Candle De Lite in Baldwin lets you design the perfect candle, choosing your favorite scent, color, and style for a candle that smells and looks amazing.
Candle De Lite in Baldwin lets you design the perfect candle, choosing your favorite scent, color, and style for a candle that smells and looks amazing.Photo by Tracey Khan

“I told my daughters they needed to get degrees, so now I’m doing it too,” he said with a smile.

With Candle’s Delight, Moffitt is providing more than just candles — he is offering a fresh take on nightlife, creativity, and community connection in Long Island.

Celebrate Mother’s Day in style with a one-of-a-kind candle-making experience, paired with delicious brunch and dinner, on Sunday, May 11, at Candle’s Delight (998B Merrick Rd, Baldwin, NY 11510). Reserve your spot now at candledelite.live