Questions, answered.
A practical archive for choosing a formula, tending the ritual, and receiving an order.
Formulas & materials
01
How do I choose a formula?
Begin with the state you are in, rather than a preferred fragrance. FIND YOUR STATE offers five quiet questions and directs you to the formula that most closely belongs to the moment.
02
What materials are used in AN candles?
Each formula brings together wax, aromatic botanical materials, essential oils, and carefully selected fragrance components. The composition and botanical notes for each formula are listed on its individual archive page.
03
Are the four formulas meant to be used together?
They can be. Each formula belongs to a different state and moment of the day. Use one when it fits the present moment, or let several form a rhythm across morning, afternoon, evening, and night.
Ritual & care
01
How should I begin the first burn?
Allow the surface wax to melt evenly toward the vessel edge on the first burn. This establishes a more even burn pattern for the rituals that follow.
02
How long should I keep the candle lit?
Follow the burn-time guidance shown on the formula page and never leave a burning candle unattended. Trim the wick before each use and keep the vessel away from drafts, children, and pets.
03
Does the ritual need to be the same every day?
No. Repetition creates recognition, but care should still respond to the room, the hour, and the state already present. The ritual is a structure, not a rule.
Orders & shipping
01
Where are orders dispatched from?
Shanghai orders are fulfilled locally for Shanghai delivery. Tracking details are sent after an order has shipped. See our Shipping Policy.
02
How long does international delivery take?
For the United States, estimated delivery is 7 to 12 business days. The delivery estimate shown at checkout is the most current estimate for the destination and order. Delivery estimates are not guarantees. See our Shipping Policy for supported destinations and details. Shanghai next-day delivery does not apply internationally.
03
Will customs duties be charged?
For United States orders, any taxes or duties charged on an order are shown during checkout before payment. See our Shipping Policy for destination-specific details.
04
Can you deliver to my hotel in Shanghai?
Yes. Free next-day Shanghai delivery. Order today. Expected delivery by 6 PM tomorrow. All times are Shanghai time. Shanghai orders are fulfilled locally for Shanghai delivery.
Because AN candles are hand-poured in small batches, delivery may take longer if a formula is temporarily out of stock. If this happens, we’ll contact you by email with an updated delivery estimate. Delivery timing may also be affected by courier delays, weather, address issues or other exceptional circumstances.
Include your hotel name, guest name, phone number and full Shanghai address at checkout. Confirm that reception can accept the parcel and allow time before departure. Pickup near Jing’an Temple may be available by arrangement. Contact us before ordering and we’ll confirm availability. See Shanghai hotel delivery and our Shipping Policy.
05
What gift packaging is included?
Each Botanical Candle arrives with an AN gift box, a Formula / state card and an English scent card, with no price slip. Explore Gifts or read the China gift guide.
06
Can I return my order for a refund?
Return requests can be made within 10 days of delivery for unused items in their original packaging. Once approved, return instructions and the return address will be provided by email. Email contact@an-apothecary.com before returning an item. See our Refund Policy for exceptions and full details.
Damaged or incorrect orders: Contact us promptly with your order number and photos. We’ll review the issue and arrange a replacement or refund where applicable.
Safety & scope
01
Are AN formulas medical treatments?
No. AN is a sensory practice, not a clinical one. Our descriptions of states and botanicals are observational and experiential and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any medical condition.
02
Can I burn AN candles around pets?
Animals vary in their sensitivity to aromatic materials. Use candles in a well-ventilated room, keep them beyond direct reach, and consult a veterinarian if your animal has a known sensitivity or health concern.
Still looking for an answer? Write to the archive and we will respond with care.
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