Hat Creek Candle Company was started in a Watertown kitchen in the fall of 1999 by Kari Barnes and Wendy Sallam. After much experimenting with hot wax and fragrances, Hat Creek Candle was born. After a successful open house and a few wholesale shows, the company began to take off. Since its inception, the company has experienced a steady growth. In 2004, Hat Creek moved into its new 8,000 square foot home in Watertown, Wisconsin. Kari and Wendy continue to run the company and play a large roll in day to day operations.