Impactful packaging does more than protect a product—it tells a story, creates anticipation, and leaves a lasting impression long after the experience itself. Wilder Days Candle Company, founded in 2023 in Cary, Illinois, approaches candle-making with this philosophy at its core, blending clean-burning formulations, refined fragrance profiles, and intentional design into objects meant to live beautifully in the home.
Rooted in a love for scent, atmosphere, and thoughtful interiors, Wilder Days transforms everyday rituals into elevated moments. Each hand-poured soy candle with a wood wick is designed not only to be lit, but to be experienced—visually, tactilely, and emotionally.
Wilder Days was born from founder Meggan Djurdjevic’s desire to create candles that felt elevated yet safe for everyday use. After her husband experienced sensitivities to traditional store-bought candles, Meggan began experimenting with cleaner ingredients and more refined fragrance blends. What started as a personal creative outlet quickly evolved into a brand rooted in intentional living.
In a saturated candle market, Wilder Days stands apart by treating every detail—ingredients, craftsmanship, scent, and presentation—as equally important. Packaging, in particular, is viewed as an extension of the product rather than an afterthought.
When selecting packaging, Wilder Days sought durability, longevity, and visual impact. The goal was clear: create something substantial, tactile, and worthy of being kept.
Traditional folding cartons and rigid boxes were considered, but many felt either too disposable or overly ornate for the brand’s refined, minimalist aesthetic. Paper tube packaging offered a thoughtful alternative—clean in design, substantial in hand, and aligned with the brand’s desire for reuse and longevity.
The result is packaging that elevates the unboxing experience while encouraging interaction long after the candle has been lit.
The branding and design of the tube packaging were inspired by simplicity, beauty, and longevity. Clean lines, subtle detailing, and carefully selected tactile materials create a sense of anticipation before the product is even revealed.
Creative direction and photography were led by Wilder Days Candle Company, with packaging design support from Paper Tube Co., under the creative direction of Ricardo Gomez. Together, the teams focused on creating packaging that feels intentional and timeless—never disposable.
Layered materials, thoughtful proportions, and a refined finish give the tubes a presence that feels both modern and enduring, encouraging customers to reuse or repurpose them rather than discard them.
“The packaging creates a moment,” Meggan shares. “It feels exciting to open and beautiful enough that it’s difficult to throw away.”
Protective yet elegant, the paper tubes strike a balance between form and function. They extend the experience beyond the candle itself, reinforcing the belief that beautiful design adds value—and that everyday objects can be both useful and meaningful.
Working with the Paper Tube Co. team was a collaborative, design-forward process from start to finish. From dialing in finishes and paper choices to reviewing physical samples and refining details, the partnership allowed the Wilder Days vision to fully take shape.
“Their attention to detail, openness to collaboration, and thoughtful design guidance made the entire process feel supportive and aligned with our vision,” Meggan notes. “We truly valued their expertise and partnership throughout the project.”
As Wilder Days Candle Company continues to grow, the brand envisions expanding thoughtfully as a lifestyle brand rooted in intentional living. Future plans include exploring refill options and long-term solutions that encourage reuse rather than disposability, while reaching customers beyond their local market.
Timeless design. Thoughtful materials. A ritual, beautifully packaged.
