The Story of Malta's NemNem Candles
Emily A. Francis meets Joe Galea, the creative force behind NemNem Candles, located in the heart of Ta’ Qali Artisan Craft Village. Joe’s journey began with crafting miniature Maltese houses, evolving into stunning candles, magnets, soaps, and more. His dedication to celebrating Malta’s beauty shines through every creation.
Located in the heart of the Ta’ Qali Artisan Craft Village, a hub brimming with charming shops filled with handmade local treasures, NemNem Candles stands out as a must-visit destination for anyone seeking unique, meaningful gifts. Whether you’re a tourist exploring Malta or a local on the hunt for something special, Ta’ Qali has become my personal go-to spot for gift shopping, and NemNem Candles holds a special place in my heart.
Last holiday season, I discovered NemNem Candles firsthand and couldn’t resist purchasing several for my closest friends. Today, I want to share the story of the creative genius behind this incredible brand: Joe Galea.
Joe’s artistic journey began long before the conception of NemNem Candles. At just 18 years old, he started crafting miniature houses inspired by the stunning, traditional Maltese architecture. These meticulously detailed creations, available at NemNem in Ta’ Qali and online at Heritage Homes of Malta, are a testament to his craftsmanship and love for Malta’s heritage. Decades later, these delightful figures remain a cornerstone of his work and can be found both at his shop and throughout the island.
As his talent and passion grew, Joe expanded his offerings to include candles, magnets, soaps, mugs, and ceramic plaques. Each piece reflects the beauty and cultural essence of the Maltese islands. Remarkably, this year alone, Joe and his team produced over 500,000 candles and 11 tonnes of soaps, which are now showcased in tourist shops across Malta and Gozo, including at Malta International Airport.
The next time you’re browsing a tourist shop and spot a beautifully crafted candle in the shape of the St John’s Cross, a mug adorned with Mediterranean tiles, or a magnet featuring a traditional Maltese Luzzu boat, take a moment to check the label. You’ll likely see the name ‘Heritage Homes of Malta’, signifying Joe’s touch on the piece.
The Birth of NemNem Candles
Opening NemNem Candles in Ta’ Qali was a natural next step for Joe, bringing his artistry and entrepreneurial spirit to a dedicated space. The shop’s name, derived from the Maltese word for ‘flicker’, perfectly encapsulates the warmth and charm of the brand.
Behind the scenes, the shop is a hive of creativity and meticulous craftsmanship. In the back rooms and upstairs workspace, Joe and his team pour their hearts into crafting each product. The attention to detail is extraordinary, with every candle, soap, magnet, mug, and plaque made with care and precision.
The shop radiates an atmosphere of calm and creativity. Picture smooth music playing softly in the background as artisans work methodically, pouring wax into molds, setting wicks with custom tools, and ensuring every item is finished to perfection. It’s a space where artistry thrives, and nothing feels rushed—great creations take time.
And if the inviting ambiance isn’t enough, you might be greeted at the entrance by the shop’s friendly resident cat, Pizza, who adds an extra layer of charm to the NemNem experience.
Stepping into NemNem is like walking into a treasure trove of Maltese culture and craftsmanship. The walls are lined with signature candles in a rainbow of colours and delightful scents. Beautifully packaged soaps hang elegantly on display, while rows of magnets capture the soul of Malta—traditional door knockers, brightly colored doorways, Luzzu boats, and flower-adorned balconies reminiscent of Valletta’s streets.
Joe’s love and devotion to Malta’s heritage are evident in every piece he creates. The shop is a true celebration of the island’s beauty, with something special to catch your eye at every turn.
The Art of Candle Making
For those lucky enough to see the work in progress, the behind-the-scenes process is a fascinating glimpse into craftsmanship at its finest. Wax is carefully poured into molds, and each wick is placed by hand using a custom tool—a thick popsicle stick with precise holes to ensure the wicks are perfectly positioned. Whether it’s a heart-shaped candle with three wicks or a round candle with a single centered wick, every detail is meticulously executed.
Wicks are measured for uniformity, and the process demands patience, steady hands, and an unwavering commitment to quality.
If you already own one of these signature candles, there’s even more good news! Once your candle is finished, you can bring the empty container back to NemNem and have it refilled with your choice of wax and scent—at a heavily discounted price. This thoughtful initiative not only reduces waste but also fosters a sense of community and loyalty among customers.
Whether you’re searching for the perfect gift or a special piece to brighten your home, NemNem Candles is a destination you can’t miss.
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