Audra Hager has turned a longtime dream into reality with the opening of Ember Candle & Vintage Emporium, a unique shop on First Street in Langley. She always imagined living in a coastal town and owning a shop of her own. That vision became a reality when she opened Ember in the heart of downtown Langley.
The cozy boutique is a delight to the senses. As visitors enter, they are greeted with fun music, enticing scents, and creative displays that invite them to explore a distinctive collection of handcrafted candles and carefully curated antiques and vintage-inspired gifts.
Audra and her family spent many years living in Colorado before her husband’s career brought them to Mukilteo. They began spending their weekends exploring Whidbey Island. “I was immediately drawn to Whidbey and all it offers,” Audra said. “I loved the small-village feel of the Langley community, and each time we visited, it felt more like home.” In October of 2022 they made the move to the island. Soon after, Audra began channeling her creativity into building the shop she had long envisioned.
Ember Candle & Vintage Emporium features an eclectic mix of handcrafted soy candles—made by Audra herself—alongside an assortment of additional candle collections, antique treasures, vintage-inspired gifts and curiosities, books, journals, lanterns, carpet bags, candle accessories, beautiful kimonos, home décor, and other distinctive pieces.
She has a passion for antiquing and items that could tell a story. “I have a lot of unique odds and ends that I’ve gathered over the years, along with the candles that I create,” she said. “Most of my gift items have a vintage-inspired feel.” The store’s aesthetic blends Audra’s favorite themes of gothic, nautical, Victorian, dark academia and botanicals. Many of the items come from artisans and suppliers she has built relationships with over several years.
Audra also brings extensive retail experience to her new venture. You might know her from Foamy Wader jewelry shop in Langley where she worked the last three years and developed a love for connecting with both residents and visitors from afar. Today, she continues to enjoy building relationships with local islanders along with makers and suppliers, while continually curating new pieces for her shop.
For Audra, candle-making remains one of the most fulfilling parts of the business. It offers a creative outlet and allows her to design original pieces that reflect the mood and character of Ember. All candles offered in the shop are soy based, pthalate-free, and clean burning.
You never know what may be waiting for you at Ember! Audra invites locals and visitors alike to stop by, explore the shop, and discover the many unique features that make Ember a special addition to downtown Langley.
Ember Candle & Vintage Emporium is located at 306 First Street in Langley.
Phone: 720-839-2072
Instagram: ember.emporium
Website: embercandleshop.com
Store hours are Wednesday and Thursday, 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.; and Sunday, 12:00 p.m. – 4 p.m. The shop is currently closed Mondays and Tuesdays.
