Exile is a conceptual candle brand rooted in serenity and memory. This fictional artisan brand was created as a packaging design and branding exploration, blending symbolism with product storytelling. Inspired by the Proust phenomenon — where scent unlocks vivid emotional memories — Exile explores the power of olfactory triggers through thoughtful candle branding and custom label illustration. Designed to evoke calm, it demonstrates how product packaging can carry both aesthetic and emotional impact.

The goal of the logo design was to visually encapsulate the three core elements of the Exile candle brand: a personal story (symbolizing memory), a specific place (how memory acts as a time machine), and a flame (evoking warmth and comfort). Designed as a custom logo for an artisan brand, Exile’s logo reflects the emotional power of scent and memory. The name "Exile" suggests refuge in a safe haven, while the flowing shapes reinforce themes of daydreaming and relaxation. The handwritten script typography was crafted to align with the brand’s intimate, personal narrative, enhancing its storytelling and emotional connection with customers.

The next step was designing the packaging for Exile. Instead of intricate, figurative illustrations, I focused on creating custom, seamless patterns in soft, calming colors. This packaging design approach enhances the sensory experience by visually evoking tranquility and warmth, while maintaining a minimalistic yet meaningful aesthetic.