About

khhaish (pronounced "khai-eesh") is a candle brand specializing in small batch and eco-friendly candles that embody perseverance and intention at their core. The name is a stylized spelling of the Urdu word khwaish or khwahish, meaning “desire,” “wish,” or "longing." With roots in Urdu and Persian, khhaish evokes a sense of yearning for something beyond reach, reflecting its mission to inspire others to turn their desires into reality through the power of scent.

Scent is transformative. It influences our atmosphere, sets the mood, and draws on memory.

With each khhaish candle, we invite you to pause, breathe deeply, and let our scents guide you toward aspirations, clarity, or something entirely unexpected. Our fragrances are long-lasting and nuanced, designed to enhance your lifestyle and shape special moments ahead. 

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 and a heightened sensitivity to intrusive smells—while longing to create for the sake of creating, Shaikh sought creative ways to make her space feel clean, comforting, and truly her own. From simmering homemade potpourri to concocting vinegar blends, she experimented until she found something better (khhaish!) and worth sharing with others.

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

Our candles are eco-conscious, non-toxic, and made to leave a lasting impression. Scent is not just any fragrance. Scent guides how we feel and move through the world. From the first light to the final burn, our candles offer more than just creating ambiance—they radiate a strong sense of vision and possibility.