When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
Slow North
Why Slow North is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Slow North in Austin, Texas, offers a unique and inviting environment perfect for meeting up with friends who appreciate mindful living and artisanal craftsmanship. Located in North Central Austin's Lamar Business Park, their brick-and-mortar store features an intimate shop where visitors can browse an expansive collection of botanical goods, all handmade with love at their local studio. The store also includes a zero-waste bulk refill bar, emphasizing Slow North's commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly practices. What really makes Slow North a great place for gatherings is its welcoming workshop space that hosts weekly non-toxic soy candle-making classes. These workshops provide a hands-on creative experience, ideal for friends looking to bond over crafting beautiful, clean-burning candles made without hidden toxins or synthetic fragrances. Furthermore, Slow North offers private events such as birthdays, bachelorette parties, or girls' nights out, making it a distinctive spot for meaningful social celebrations. The ambiance, attention to natural wellness, and the personal touch in every product encourage visitors to slow down and enjoy moments of relaxation and connection. This blend of quality products, educational experiences, and sustainable philosophy creates a peaceful sanctuary perfect for elevating everyday interactions with friends.
Here's what people think of Slow North
As of recent, Slow North holds a 4.9-star rating based on 99 reviews.
Based on nearly 800 reviews, Slow North holds an impressive 4.9-star rating, highlighting its strong customer satisfaction and trusted reputation. Reviewers consistently emphasize the high quality and thoughtfully crafted nature of Slow North's products, particularly praising their non-toxic soy candles made with essential oils that create calming, delightful scents. Customers appreciate the brand's commitment to sustainability, including the use of recyclable and compostable packaging and a zero-waste bulk refill bar. Many positive comments focus on the personalized and friendly service experienced when attending workshops or visiting the retail store, with particular enthusiasm for the candle-making classes as both enjoyable and educational. On the other hand, some less favorable feedback, while minimal, occasionally mentions limited store hours or the challenges of shipping times for online orders. However, these critiques are rare and do not overshadow the overwhelmingly positive response from the community. Overall, reviews paint Slow North as a conscientious, customer-focused brand that delivers exceptional natural wellness products and engaging experiential offerings, which solidifies its status as a cherished local and online destination.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Johnny Good
Loved our candle-making experience! Jane was the perfect instructor. Plenty of options to create the most amazing scents!
Rachel Borges Hedges
I had an amazing experience yesterday late afternoon taking the class to make candles with Abby. She has lots of knowledge and willingness to share/teach. I loved the shop atmosphere and its products. Want to go back there soon!
Savannah
My coworkers and I did a candle making class here earlier this week with Abby. We had a blast! She was super knowledgeable about essential oils and scents and helped us make some really nice candles to take home. (Along with some sample soaps!) 10/10 would reccomend as a team building event.
Jessica Knopp
This shop is such a gem--it's my favorite place to go for hand-poured candles that smell incredible. Such a nice staff and I feel like they're always doing super fun events and workshops! Highly recommend.
Valerie Michelle Plaza
Abby is THE KINDEST person I have ever met. She really took care of me while shopping and led our candle making class which was so fun!! The sunshine oil!!!!! AHHHHH!! Holy moly so freaking good. It really does perk me up and bring me happiness. Definitely the perfect place for gifts! Check them out!
How to reach Slow North
None
Website: None
Why Slow North may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Slow North with your friends?
Slow North offers a uniquely inviting and intentional space that makes it the perfect location for gathering with friends and celebrating the art of slow, mindful living. The moment you step inside, you are enveloped in an atmosphere curated by founder Michelle, where tranquility and creativity flourish. Far from feeling elitist, Slow North’s shop is stocked with beautifully handcrafted home goods, from artisanal jewelry to planters, that communicate care and authenticity without pretense. This is a place where every product—from their celebrated candles to carefully sourced essential oils—is designed with clean, non-toxic ingredients and made with intention, creating a sensory experience that encourages connection and calm. The peaceful, healing qualities embedded in each item foster a shared moment of slow living that resonates deeply when experienced with loved ones. Beyond just shopping, Slow North’s transparent production studio, where makers hand-pour each candle openly before your eyes, invites guests into a story of craftsmanship and community. When friends come together here, they aren’t simply visitors; they become part of a thoughtful, warm environment perfect for meaningful conversations and shared discovery, making it an ideal rally point for a relaxing, enriching meetup.
What activities can you enjoy at Slow North for a group meetup?
Slow North offers a range of activities that transform a visit into an interactive and engaging social experience, perfect for groups seeking connection and creativity. The centerpiece of their offerings is the candle-making workshops hosted in their welcoming multipurpose studio. These workshops allow groups to immerse themselves in the craft, hand-pouring their own non-toxic, beautifully scented candles under expert guidance. It’s an enriching activity that nurtures creativity and offers a tangible keepsake—an ideal bonding experience for friends or family members. Beyond workshops, guests can browse the stunning retail space filled with handcrafted goods. The shop’s assortment ranges from aromatic soy candles made with 100% essential oils to elegant handcrafted jewelry and artisan planters, each item showcasing Slow North’s devotion to quality and intentional living. Exploring these products together sparks conversations around sustainable home-making and thoughtful gifting. The open studio format also means visitors can watch artisans working live, deepening appreciation for the craft and adding an element of transparency and intimacy to the visit. Whether actively participating in creative sessions or simply enjoying the serene ambiance, Slow North offers a multi-layered experience perfectly suited to groups looking to connect through mindful living and artisanal appreciation.
Why is Slow North the ideal spot for hosting meetups with friends or family?
Slow North’s unique blend of community focus, creativity, and carefully curated products creates a warm and inclusive environment that is tailor-made for group gatherings. This woman-owned business is deeply rooted in values of wellness and sustainability, creating a space where guests feel cared for and inspired. The setting is designed to encourage lingering and exploration, with a beautiful, uncluttered aesthetic that invites relaxation and thoughtful conversation. Because the products are crafted with clean ingredients and natural materials, guests don't just enjoy sensory delight—they participate in an experience that aligns with health-conscious and eco-friendly values, making Slow North a meaningful destination that resonates on multiple levels. The transparent production studio allows groups to witness the behind-the-scenes magic of candle making, adding an educational and interactive dimension that enhances group engagement. Beyond just retail, the scheduled workshops foster collaboration and skill-building, offering an activity that’s both fun and purposeful. Plus, the expansive, versatile space can comfortably accommodate groups, making it easy for friends and family to gather, explore, and create together without feeling rushed or cramped. Slow North is more than a store; it is a thoughtfully designed social hub perfect for memorable meetups centered around shared values and sensory delight.
What makes the candle-making workshops at Slow North special for groups?
The candle-making workshops are a signature feature of Slow North that offer a distinct social and creative experience, especially appealing to groups. Unlike typical commercial workshops, Slow North emphasizes quality, wellness, and craftsmanship, using 100% non-toxic, essential oil-blended soy wax that burns clean and smells divine. The workshops are held in a sunlit, transparent studio space where attendees can watch the expert artisans as they guide groups through hand-pouring their own candles. This openness fosters an intimate, collaborative atmosphere that strengthens group bonds as everyone creates together. Additionally, the workshops emphasize education—participants receive detailed guidance on proper candle use and care, enhancing their appreciation for the craft. This mindful approach turns the activity into more than just a fun pastime; it becomes a shared ritual of creativity and relaxation. Finished candles make perfect personalized souvenirs, giving groups a lasting reminder of their time spent together. This experience nurtures connection, making the workshops an ideal way for friends or family to enjoy meaningful time while appreciating artisanal quality and wellness-focused products.
How does Slow North maintain its commitment to clean, sustainable, and intentional living?
Slow North’s entire brand ethos centers on intentional living and sustainability, which is reflected in every aspect of their business—from production to packaging. All of their candles and essential oil blends are made with clean, non-toxic ingredients including soy wax and 100% essential oils, designed to safeguard health while providing rich, complex scents. This commitment extends to eco-conscious packaging: their materials are thoughtfully chosen to be recyclable and compostable, demonstrating dedication to reducing environmental impact. Slow North also embraces transparency by allowing customers to observe the candle-making process in their studio, which builds trust and invites engagement with sustainable practices. Each artisanal product in their shop—from home goods to jewelry—is crafted by skilled makers who share these values, making the store a collection of sustainably made treasures. Founder Michelle’s vision to bottle a feeling of peaceful intentionality permeates the space and product line, encouraging customers and visitors to slow down and savor their everyday moments. This sustainability focus resonates strongly with groups looking to gather in places that offer both beauty and conscientious living.
What kind of products make Slow North a great place to explore with friends?
Slow North stocks an exquisite array of home goods and lifestyle items that make browsing a joyful group experience. Most notably, their line of hand-poured soy candles infused with 100% essential oils offers a diversity of well-crafted scents like the seasonal favorite "Spellbound." These candles are praised for their strong aromas, smooth burn, and eco-friendly wax that avoids harmful chemicals. Beyond candles, the shop features elegant and artisanal jewelry pieces and unique planters, all selected to complement one another in an aesthetic that is inviting and refined without feeling inaccessible. Since each item is handmade by dedicated artisans, exploring the collection sparks curiosity and appreciation for craftsmanship among friends and family. The product mix balances beauty and utility, making Slow North a perfect setting for gift shopping or simply adding thoughtful touches to your own home. Discussing product stories and discovering favorites together creates a memorable social experience. This diverse and carefully curated product offering enhances the joy of group visits by inviting shared discovery and conversation.
How accessible and welcoming is Slow North for groups of all kinds?
Slow North prides itself on creating a space that is welcoming and accessible to a broad community, making it ideal for friends, families, and other groups seeking a meaningful gathering spot. The atmosphere combines casual warmth with an elevated sense of care, avoiding any elitist or overly formal vibe. Visitors note the beauty of the shop without any sense of unattainability, with products priced and presented in ways that invite exploration rather than intimidation. The studio’s open layout encourages mingling and interaction with artisans, helping groups feel involved and connected. Furthermore, the workshops offer guided activities suitable for all skill levels and interests, making them inclusive and fun for diverse participants. Slow North’s location in Austin supports a vibrant local community vibe, and its family-owned identity reinforces a spirit of hospitality and connection. Whether your group is small or large, slow-living enthusiasts, craft lovers, or simply curious visitors, Slow North ensures an approachable, enriching, and enjoyable experience tailored to make everyone feel valued and comfortable.
What do customers say about their experiences at Slow North?
Customer reviews highlight the consistent high quality and unique appeal of Slow North’s offerings, often mentioning the strong, pleasant scents of their candles, the beautiful packaging, and the thoughtful customer service. Many shoppers praise the company’s commitment to clean, natural ingredients, describing their products as exceptional and a cut above typical candles. Reviewers often comment on the positive atmosphere of the store and the meaningful experiences they had during candle-making workshops. Customers appreciate the punctual delivery and pristine condition of online orders, reinforcing the overall reliability of the brand. Some have noticed minor shipping imperfections but emphasize that these hardly affect the enjoyment of the product itself. The overwhelmingly positive feedback—averaging a 4.9 rating across nearly 100 reviews—demonstrates the trust and affection Slow North has built with its community. This strong reputation affirms that Slow North is not just a retail destination but a place that leaves a lasting, good impression on groups who gather there.
What makes Slow North stand out from other local shops in Austin?
Slow North’s distinctiveness lies in its seamless blend of artisan craftsmanship, health-conscious luxury, and a tangible ethos of slow, intentional living. Unlike generic gift shops or mass-market candle retailers, Slow North offers transparency by letting visitors witness artisans hand-pour candles in an open studio environment. Its products are crafted with meticulous attention to natural ingredients and environmental responsibility, placing wellness at the core of its value proposition. The family-owned business ethos imbues the brand with authenticity and warmth, creating a neighborhood gem that feels more like a community hub than a commercial outlet. Additionally, their innovative workshops add an immersive dimension that few shops provide, making Slow North a destination for experiential retail as much as shopping. This integration of transparency, sustainability, community focus, and artisanal quality distinguishes Slow North in the vibrant Austin local scene, offering groups a rich, memorable visit that transcends typical retail experiences.
Why is Slow North considered a therapeutic and healing space?
Slow North cultivates a therapeutic ambiance rooted in the philosophy of slow living and the use of pure, intentional products designed to support wellness. The carefully curated scents from their essential oil-based candles are not only pleasing but also intended to create space for reflection, calm, and healing. The aesthetic and atmosphere of the store—minimalist, clean, and calming—encourage visitors to pause and breathe amidst their busy lives. The presence of artisans handcrafting products on site further deepens a sense of mindfulness and connection, inviting visitors to witness the care and love infused into each item. Visitors often describe the store experience as almost meditative, providing a peaceful respite and a sensory sanctuary where every detail encourages a slower, more meaningful pace. Hosting gatherings here allows groups to share in this healing environment, enhancing social bonds through calm and thoughtful presence. This therapeutic quality makes Slow North uniquely suited for meetups that value wellness, relaxation, and intentional connection.
How can visitors purchase Slow North products if they cannot visit in person?
For customers unable to visit the Austin brick-and-mortar location, Slow North offers a well-curated online shop where their full range of products—including seasonal candles, essential oil blends, artisanal jewelry, and unique home goods—can be conveniently purchased. The online store replicates the boutique experience by providing detailed descriptions, usage instructions, and insight into the ethos behind each product, ensuring shoppers feel connected to the brand’s values from afar. Packaging is designed with care to ensure products arrive safely and sustainably, preserving quality and the brand’s environmental commitments. Many customers express satisfaction with the efficient shipping process and condition of items delivered, making the online platform a reliable alternative for out-of-town buyers or those who prefer online shopping. Additionally, Slow North periodically releases limited-edition collections, such as the popular "Spellbound" candle, which generate excitement both in-store and online, encouraging repeat visits to their digital storefront. This comprehensive online presence extends Slow North’s community beyond its local roots, making it accessible to groups and individuals worldwide who seek mindful, artisanal home goods.
Slow North offers not just a store, but a thoughtfully designed space for friends and family to gather, create, and explore together in a healing, artisanal environment perfect for memorable meetups.