My candle-making story began …
My candle-making journey started in Bangkok, Thailand, where I discovered my love for candles. There was a candle shop close to my home, and the amazing scent in the air felt almost magical. The smell reminded me of an ancient temple, which helped me feel calm even with the busy traffic outside. I was fascinated by the different shapes and styles of the candles, and I dreamed of having my own candle shop one day. I bought many candles from that shop, and I still keep some in my small teakwood candle cabinet. Even after 20 years, the scent brings me back to that special day I found the shop.
I grew up on an island in the Philippines, and even though I lived in other places afterward, I still miss the smell of the sea, the warm weather, sunny days, beautiful sunsets, white beaches, fresh coconut juice, and all the delicious food. I want to go back in time and tell my story by creating scents that remind me of those joyful moments from my childhood in the Philippines—carefree and innocent, yet full of learning, happiness, and sadness, feeling both young and wise.
My soap-making story began …
My soap-making journey started when I was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2021. It was the scariest news I’ve ever received, and I felt overwhelmed with fear, shock, and sadness. I went through tough treatments like chemotherapy, immunotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgery. Thankfully, I’m now in complete remission, but one side effect is that I have very dry skin. I couldn’t find any soaps that were truly moisturizing, which inspired me to dream about making my own natural soap.
That same year, my company announced that it would be moving out of Switzerland, and I would lose my job in 2024. I saw this as a chance to try something new, despite the challenges I faced every day. I decided to become a candle and soap maker.
I took courses in candle and soap making in Switzerland, and I even studied perfume making in Grasse, France, the perfume capital of the world. I learned a lot about blending scents and rituals I had never known before. Creating became a way for me to find joy and cope with the stresses of life.
With passion and dedication, I started making handmade candles and soaps in my basement with help from my husband. I quickly turned the basement into my own workshop. I named my brand “Home Swiss Home” because it represents the warmth and comfort I felt while recovering at home, surrounded by love and beauty. My first son designed the logo with mountains to reflect my love for the beautiful country of Switzerland. He also created the labels and the bands on the packaging, adding unique icons to decorate the candle jars.
My candles offer a unique experience and you need to try them because…
I only use soy wax, which is non-toxic and made from plants. As a cancer survivor, it’s very important to me that my candles don’t contain harmful substances. The scented oils I use are carefully chosen to ensure they are free from Phthalates and CMR substances. Plus, my candle jars are sustainable because they can be reused and refilled. I also use kraft cartons because I believe in using eco-friendly products.
I created different scents that capture my childhood memories, my desire for a balanced lifestyle, and the wonderful scents of Switzerland. I’m not just reliving my memories; I’m sharing them with you. Candles have a timeless beauty that goes beyond just providing light.
My handmade soaps are worth experiencing because …
My soaps are cold-processed, which is better for your skin. They are made with nourishing natural ingredients and cure naturally without heat, making them ultra-hydrating. The vegetable oils I use are biodegradable, which helps reduce pollution. I carefully choose scented oils that are free from Phthalates and CMR substances. My recipes are original, made with high-quality food-grade ingredients, and tested for safety.
Using my soaps creates a wonderful experience that can improve both your physical and emotional well-being. It’s a chance to escape, relax, and practice self-care, promoting a sense of beauty that goes beyond just looks. The right soap can make any day feel special.
Every scent has a story, and I’m excited to share them with you. They make great gifts for yourself or your loved ones. I hope you enjoy my products as much as I do!
You deserve love. You deserve beauty.
Wendra Mae Mari-Berger
Founder and Master Crafter
Notes:
*Phthalates are chemicals that make plastics soft and flexible. When candles burn, phthalates can be released into the air, where they can be inhaled or absorbed through the skin. If they enter the bloodstream, they may worsen allergic symptoms, asthma, and disrupt hormone levels.
*CMR stands for Carcinogenic, Mutagenic, and Reprotoxic, which describes a group of particularly harmful chemicals that can negatively affect human health if inhaled.