Winner:
Candles & Creations

Runner-Up:
Scribbles

CANDLE IN THE WIND

Casey Webster and Heather Paine started their gift shop in 2007 knowing that opening a brick-and-mortar business can be risky. But their risk paid off, and today they’re a go-to spot for candles of all varieties, as well as silver jewelry and products to help you balance your chakras. Eclectic? Yes. New-agey? For sure. But their wares complement each other well. Need a candle to make your teenager’s bedroom less aromatic? Take your pick of palm-wax sticks scented with anything from blueberry cobbler to cucumber tea. How about books on crystal therapy and the power of positive thinking? Check. A warm, fuzzy feeling is included with every purchase — 15 percent of the store’s proceeds go to area charities.

- Lauren Ober