About Us

The History Of Toby’s

When Toby was a University professor in 1981, one of her students was skilled in the beautiful art of candle carving, an art which she desired to acquire.

Toby’s Candles started selling candles seasonally and within one year turned into a full time business. Toby even taught her husband, three daughters and son-in-law how to dip and carve candles.

Numerous malls in Southern California became the venue for Toby’s candle carving demonstrations. For many years the candle factory at Knott’s Berry Farm was operated by Toby and her family. The Old Town San Diego State Historic Park has been the location of Toby’s Candles since 1992.

Today Toby is so pleased that her daughters, two sons-in-law and grandchildren continue operating the shop in Old Town and creating candles of all kinds.

What We Do

We want our visitors to remember their experience at Toby’s Candles. And to make your visit memorable, we have a variety of hands-on activities where you can create your very own candle. From sand candles, yes wax that looks like sand, to chunk candles, delicious looking colorful tiny blocks of wax & candle dipping wax figurines and tapers into different colors of melted wax. We also showcase an old fashioned candle carving technique which is an amazing craft to be able to watch in person.

We are proud to say that 90% of the items you see in our shop are handmade by our devoted employees and family members. Each item is made with love and is a one of a kind gift to take home as a souvenir from the birthplace of California.