Logan Hardcore... trades glitz & Glamour of drag for the warmth and glow of handmade candles

Logan Hardcore, the celebrated drag performer known for lighting up the stages of New York City and Fire Island, is embarking on a new creative journey with the launch of his new business, Radiant Light Candle Co. After 14 years in the spotlight, Hardcore has traded the glitz and glamour of drag for the warmth and glow of handmade candles, creating a brand that is deeply personal and inspired by his life’s journey of love and loss. “After quitting performing, and reaching a point of sobriety from drug and alcohol addiction, I needed an outlet for my artistic energy,” Hardcore, who now goes by the name Logan Slaughter and uses he/ him pronouns, shares. “Candles became that outlet, and with each one I create, I am reminded that even in the darkest of times, we all have an inner Radiant Light.”

The significance of family is at the heart of Radiant Light Candles. Logan’s father, a real-life cowboy, played an integral role in the development of one of the brand’s most meaningful candles. “My father was living with us and battling end stage cancer when I created my company. The Cowboy candle is named after him,” Logan Slaughter explains. “He was the epitome of strength and support in my life, and we worked on this candle together. He chose the scent, the wooden wick for the natural crackling sound, and even the design of the label, which features the cowboy hat tattoo I have on my finger. The candle was a labor of love, and it will forever hold a special place in my heart.”

Another candle that holds deep personal significance is “Mary,” named after Slaughter’s late mother. “My mom passed away in 2016 after fighting cortical basal degeneration for five years,” he continues. “Throughout her illness, she never complained. She simply embodied resilience. Mary was the first candle

I created, and the scent has lavender notes, her favorite fragrance.”

In addition to being a personal tribute to her family, Radiant Light Candle Co. reflects Logan Slaughter’s dedication to the LGBTQIA+ and substance abuse recovery communities.

“Being part of both has taught me the importance of inclusivity and compassion. Radiant Light Candle Co. is a brand that stands for more than just beautifully crafted candles. It’s about building a supportive, empowering community where people can find hope, healing, and connection.”

Slaughter hand-pours every candle in small batches to ensure the highest level of care and craftsmanship. Presentation is key, too. “I make sure that each candle is visually appealing and luxurious.” The Essential Collection, for example, comes in sleek matte black vessels, while the brand’s Pride candles are hand-dyed with rainbow colors throughout the wax, ensuring each one is vibrant and unique.

Slaughter is also careful in choosing the right materials for the candles. “We use coconut wax for its exceptional scent throw,” he says. “It’s soft, soot-free, and burns cleanly, which is important to me, especially with a young daughter at home. I want to know exactly what is in the air when I burn candles, and coconut wax offers the best solution.”

His daughter, Chloé, who was adopted after a challenging three-year process, also has her own special candle in the collection. It features a holographic prism vessel with wax melt hearts on top that leave a shimmer as they melt. “It’s designed to reflect the joy and sparkle that our most precious gift brings into our lives.”

Logan Slaughter was named Best Candlemaker of the Year 2024 by Westchester Magazine. Being recognized as the best candlemaker, especially as a queer male maker in a traditionally female-dominated field, was an honor for him. “It reminded me that all the hard work—working late nights and balancing my responsibilities as a parent—has been worth it.”

As he continues to grow Radiant Light, he has big plans for the future. “I’m focusing on getting into small boutiques across the country. I love supporting small businesses and being part of someone else’s dream. I’m also excited to continue developing new products, such as bath bombs and body products, which I’ve been testing and perfecting for a while now.”

For more information about Radiant Light Candles and to explore the entire collection, visit RadiantLightCandleCo.com.

By Skip Sheffield