Last Minute Gift Idea: Hot Cocoa and Coffee Candles

I had my annual Hot Cocoa and Coffee Christmas party over the weekend, and as usual I gave everyone a small gift for coming. But this tradition completely slipped my mind until right before the party. I didn't feel like creating one of my infamous sugar scrubs, so I made these very last minute (I shared them on my Snapchat: ellesees) using what I had around the house. They were a hit and I'll be giving some as gifts too.

Here's how to make Hot Cocoa and Coffee Candles:

You'll need:

• teacups (these were mismatched punch cups--try Goodwill)
• wicks (from craft store)
• candles (I used what I had at home)
• OR soy wax
• candle dye (or crayons--they are non-toxic)
• optional: fragrance oil 
• Cooking supplies:
• double boiler (I used a pan and a glass bowl)
• wooden skewers
• spatula

Directions:

• Attach the wick to the cup. You can use hot glue or a little of the melted wax to bottom of the wick. I used small wicks. If you are using a candle as your wax source, see if you can use the wick. Cut to size, if needed.
• Chop up and melt your wax/candle. I used candles I had around the house. Some were scented (like coffee or hot cocoa or vanilla) and some were not. I liked having the option for my guests.
• I melted the wax using a double boiler, as pictured above. This means I had a boiling pot of water and placed the glass bowl with wax/candle pieces on top.
• Once melted, pour it into the cup, as pictured. I used a wooden skewer broken in half to keep the wick standing up straight.  I used twist ties to secure it. I told y'all this was last minute!
• Allow to cool until wax has hardened. If needed, you can pop these in the freezer for 30 minutes to help with the cooling down process.

In the past, I've added some coffee beans to the bottom and then poured in the wax. I've also used cute and dainty tea cups. Your recipient(s) can reuse the the cups!

A peek from the party

How cute are these? Which one was your fave?

Extra Elle:

• I decided last night to send out Christmas cards. If you would like one, email your address. Thanks.
• Don't forget my linkup tomorrow: The Story Behind the Pic. Choose any picture (or more) and tell us about it. That's it!