About Us
Welcome to The Magical Bee!
At The Magical Bee, our mission is to create and share unique, fun products that are not only enjoyable but also beneficial for you!
We chose the name because bees truly are, well, magical! Everything they do—from pollinating flowers to supporting the health of our environment and ecosystem—is vital. They’re amazing!
The Artisans and Shop Owners: James & Dan Carter.
How we got started...
We have always appreciated the artistry and benefits of handcrafted candles, soaps, and bodycare ourselves. One day we thought it would be fun to handcraft our own and decided to buy a large block of beeswax from Dan's older brother who is a full time beekeeper. We fell in love with the crafting process of making candles, then soaps, and later our own line of handcrafted self care products. It turned out the people who we shared them with also loved them. We started with a booth at the local farmers markets, and in time this progressed into a business where we can share our products with the world!
Why purchase our handmade soaps and candles..?
We believe you will find the quality of our products excellent! We strive to use the best quality ingredients and components possible! We use 100% natural waxes and natural wicks in all of our candles. Our soaps are made with organic virgin oils, butters, and botanicals. Our products are scented with essential oils, botanical fragrances, or certified cleans scent fragrances that are non-toxic, phthalate-free, and of course smell amazing! Most of all, our products are made with intention & care.
We hope you enjoy them as much as we did making them ☺ 
Kind Words from the Hive
Every candle, soap, and balm we sell is made by the two of us — so when someone takes the time to leave a kind word, it means the world. Here's what our customers have to say, in their own words. (And if you've shopped with us, we'd love to hear yours.)
— James & Dan
From our Hillsboro shop
"This shop is incredible! The products are impressive: candles, soaps, and more — with high quality ingredients, essential oils, and novel scents (fruit loops, baklava, etc!). I've found items that are baby-friendly and gentle on the skin for those with sensitive skin. It's a favorite spot when I am looking for a gift, but I also seem to walk away every time with something for myself too. James and Danny are wonderful shop owners who are very warm and knowledgeable."
— Alex H. · Google Review, Hillsboro
"I absolutely love everything about The Magical Bee, from the enchanting candles to the delightful soaps. Their fragrances are simply amazing. In my opinion, it's a perfect 10/10. Congrats on the new store 🙂"
— Luis A. · Google Review, Hillsboro
From our Astoria shop
"The products are just as lovely as the owners. We visited this shop for the first time during the Astoria Arts Walk, and we were absolutely enchanted! James took the time to explain some of the great qualities of their products, and we ended up bringing home a variety of candles and balms. Our favorite by far was the body butter, filled with loads of herbs! Not only does it smell amazing, but it works great too. We'll definitely be returning on our next trip to Astoria!"
— Cora B. · Google Review, Astoria
"The Magical Bee is a treat and you must stop in when visiting Astoria! So many soap options I didn't know what to do, but the owners were so helpful and explained their products and even gave me little samples with my purchase. I've got a red clay soap in my shower that gives my entire bathroom a lovely scent (in addition to being extremely nourishing!) and I can't wait to try the scrub cubes."
— Adrianna M. · Google Review, Astoria
"The shampoo and conditioner bars are amazing. The shop has tons of options and the owners are pros at matching hair needs. Highly recommend."
— Jaz C. · Google Review, Astoria
"Product is wonderful! I love the fragrances and the quick turn around. Much appreciated! Someday I will make it up there to actually see the shops and until then viewing the website makes me feel like I am there! Good job guys! 👏"
— Doni A. · Google Review
From our online customers
"Absolutely beautiful! Love the color, the scent and even the label!"
— Amy · Verified online order
In the press
The Magical Bee was featured in The Daily Astorian — a story about our beeswax beginnings, our home-garden ingredients, our commitment to a cruelty-free craft.
Shopped with us? We'd love to hear from you
A quick review helps our small two person shop more than you know. You can leave one for either location:
⭐ Review our Hillsboro shop on Google 🐝
⭐ Review our Astoria shop on Google 🐝