From Candles to Cocktails

Alyssia MacDonald has a Creation for Every Season

Spice & Oak | High Level, AB

In High Level, creativity glows in jars, bottles and simmer pots—if Alyssia MacDonald hand-crafted them that is. Whether it is her all-natural candles or her gorgeous charcuterie spreads, each of her offerings carry her signature blend of artistry, care and community spirit.

“I think most people know me for my candles,” said MacDonald. “They’re all natural, made with coconut and soy. But, I also make rosemary hair oil, hand soap, simmer pots, and even craft cocktail mixes. There’s something for everyone.”

MacDonald’s journey as a maker began in 2021, which was shortly after she moved up from Red Deer with her family. The transition brought change and challenges, but it also opened the door to a new passion.

“I was in a new town, and I wanted to be able to stay at home with the kids every day,” said MacDonald. “That just wasn’t possible unless we had a secondary income. So, I found something I love to do.”

At first, this meant building a charcuterie business. But, as MacDonald looked for something more sustainable year-round, she shifted her focus to candles. Each new batch reaffirmed she could make it a business as well as a creative outlet that connected her to her community.

“I didn’t realize how much I needed something for myself until I started doing it,” said MacDonald. “Being able to create and connect with people at farmers’ markets brought out my social butterfly side again. It’s been wonderful.”

MacDonald’s products are built around natural, chemical-free ingredients and a cozy aesthetic. From amber glass jars to apothecary-style packaging, her brand has a timeless quality that makes each item feel special.

“I really want to create products that feel cozy and are beautiful to display,” said MacDonald. “That’s why I went with the amber jars and bottles. It gives everything that old apothecary feel.”

Seasonality also shapes her work. In summer, she offers craft cocktails—dehydrated fruits, flowers and botanicals steeped with spirits to create unique ready-to-mix drinks.

“The first time I made them, I sold out within 45 minutes,” said MacDonald. “People love them.”

Custom orders add another layer of connection, allowing customers to bring sentimental pieces in to be repurposed.

“Someone brought me a crystal vase they used at their wedding,” said MacDonald. “It had just been sitting collecting dust. I filled it with her favourite candle scent and gave it new life. Those pieces mean the most because they’re one-of-a-kind.”

As the holiday season approaches, MacDonald is preparing for markets with simmer pots, wax melts, seasonal craft cocktails and her ever-popular candles.

“I think the year I came out with the simmer pots, every teacher in town got one,” said MacDonald. “They’re such a fun gift idea.”

With price points ranging from $10 simmer pots to $30 craft cocktails to custom candles that vary by size, MacDonald’s products are accessible for every budget. They make thoughtful gifts for anyone in need of a little light and warmth during the long northern winter.

Of course, running a creative business in a small town has its challenges. MacDonald admits she wasn’t sure at first how her brand would be received.

“One of my first products were simmer pots with a bit of a witchy vibe, and I wasn’t sure how that would go over,” said MacDonald. “But the community has been so supportive. When you create something that’s authentically you, it draws in the right people.”

Looking ahead, MacDonald dreams of one day moving closer to the mountains and opening a cozy coffee shop and bookstore, a place where her handmade goods could be a part of an even larger vision.

“My ultimate goal is a little shop that combines all my passions,” said MacDonald. “Dark academia vibes, cozy books, coffee and my handmade products all in one space.”

For now, she’ll keep busy at monthly markets in High Level as well as the Yuletide Market in La Crete on November 22. Customers can also reach her directly on social media to place orders or to learn where she’ll be next.

Her advice to other creatives is simple but powerful: start where you are.

“There’s never a perfect time to do something like this,” said MacDonald. “Even if it feels messy in the beginning, people love growing with you and seeing the progress. If you have a creative side, go for it. You never know what it can do for your life, your family and yourself.”

Follow MacDonald on Facebook (Spice & Oak) and Instagram (@spiceandoakapothecary).

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By Amanda Hunter | Photography Submitted