About

khhaish (pronounced "khai-eesh") is a small-batch, hand-poured candle brand rooted in eco-conscious practices and guided by intention and determination. The name is a stylized spelling of the Urdu word khwaish (or khwahish), meaning “desire,” “wish,” or “longing.” With linguistic roots in Urdu and Persian, khhaish captures a sense of yearning for something just beyond reach. A quiet but powerful pull toward becoming, encouraging transformation, and turning longing into reality. 

Through scent, khhaish seeks to inspire. Alchemical in nature, scent shapes atmosphere, sets the mood, and draws on memory.

With each khhaish candle, we invite you to pause, breathe deeply, and allow scent to guide you toward aspiration, clarity, or something entirely unexpected. Our scents are long-lasting and nuanced, designed to enrich lifestyles and shape meaningful moments ahead. Not just any fragrance, our scents guide how we feel and move through the world. From the first light to the final burn, khhaish candles offer more than just creating ambiance—they radiate a strong sense of vision and possibility.

khhaish was founded in 2020 by Hadia Shaikh, a South Asian and woman entrepreneur, during a season of personal transformation.

What began in a small studio apartment (hence our studiokhhaish website name!) in Chicago’s Gold Coast grew into a search for balance—between insight, design, and well-being. Living in an older building with poor ventilation, heightened sensitivity to intrusive smells, and while seeking to create for the sake of creating, Hadia sought creative ways to turn her home into a clean and comforting one. From simmering homemade potpourri to concocting vinegar blends, she experimented until she found what her home truly her own (khhaish!) and was worth sharing with others.

khhaish grew out of that experience. A soy-wax candle line built from curiosity, heart, and determination. Created to inspire you to thrive and meet yourself exactly where you want to be.