About Us
Bill Seippel and his late wife Anne started Salem Candle Works in February 1983 so they could continue the family tradition of making Beeswax candles for their church, Calvary Moravian in Winston-Salem. That tradition continues today with Bill and his wife Linda. Each of Bill’s five children learned the craft of how to string and pour molds from a very early age. As news of their business spread by word of mouth, the business expanded and they now ship candles to many states and foreign countries.
Bill's grandfather, Peter Blum Sr, was the tinsmith who made most of the candle molds used by the Moravian churches in Piedmont North Carolina. The candle making at their church had been done by his uncle, Peter Blum Jr, who was the master tinsmith in Old Salem for many years.
Their candles are sold in selected shops in the region. Bill is also a tinsmith and worked with his cousin, Peter Blum III on a weekly basis over the years. Bill has demonstrated candle making for many school, scout, and church groups. In 2010, Bill joined the Village of Yesteryear at the NC State Fair and while there he demonstrates the art of candle making to thousands daily. He has been featured in local papers showing his craft. Most recently Bill was featured on Roy’s folks (WGHP TV) and also Tar Heel Traveler (WRAL TV).
Peter W. Blum III was a third generation tinsmith who was trained in the Moravian tradition of excellence by both his grandfather and father. Trained as an engineer at NCSU he became a full time tinsmith over 25 years ago and has traveled throughout the southeast demonstrating his craft. He has been featured in magazines and newspapers, including "Our State" and "Colonial Homes".
Peter is recognized as a master tinsmith on a National scale. He has recreated historical items used in several movies including "The Patriot" and "Last of the Mohicans". Peter has been a demonstrating craftsman at the Village of Yesteryear since 1987.
Sadly he passed away on Feb 18, 2019 following a decline in health. Select items of his design are continuing to be produced by an apprentice, Michael Kollars.