Big Dipper Wax Works makes pure beeswax candles. They also do their part to support bees, community organizations, and the environment.
Brent Roose founded the company after the idea came to him on the beach one night: he and a friend had watched the sun set and the stars emerge. When he spotted the Big Dipper, his future appeared before him: “I would use elements of nature, which I so respect, to create a natural source of light. Hand “dipped” beeswax candles.” He started Big Dipper Wax Works to make the best all natural candles while staying true to his values.
Beeswax is the least processed form of candle wax, a renewable resource, and the product of beekeeping, a sustainable industry. It burns soot-free, and some believe that it purifies the surrounding air. It is naturally aromatic, infused with the subtle scent of honey, and is nontoxic and nonallergenic. Its high melting point (158 degrees, as opposed to 130-150 degrees for paraffin candles) means a longer burning time. It is also naturally dripless. Note that the United States does not regulate ingredients on candle labels; paraffin candles with one percent beeswax can be labeled “beeswax.” Big Dipper Wax Works uses 100% beeswax; the few exceptions that contain some soy are labeled. The wicks are 100% cotton, primed with beeswax.
Big Dipper Wax Works sources most of its beeswax from beekeepers in the Pacific Northwest and abides by a set of quality standards for all beekeepers. The beeswax is filtered with no chemicals and very little energy consumption. The company has a commitment to the environment that includes using all natural, biodegradable ingredients, using minimal packaging made with post-consumer recycled paper and soy-based inks, reducing energy use, reusing packing materials from inbound shipments, and buying locally made boxes.
Green America has certified Big Dipper Wax Works as a socially and environmentally responsible business. Big Dipper donates ten percent of profits to organizations dedicated to outreach and education to promote sustainable beekeeping. They also support local groups including schools, sports organizations, animal shelters, and health research organizations. Supported organizations include The Pollinator Partnership, The Xerces Society, Seattle Tilth, the film Vanishing of the Bees, Penn State’s Department of Entomology, and Heifer International’s bees. Read more about these organizations on Big Dipper’s website.
Learn more about Big Dipper Wax Works on their website, http://www.bigdipperwaxworks.com/.