About The Aussie Otter

Welcome to The Aussie Otter!

The Aussie Otter is an LGBTQ+-owned small business based in Baltimore, Maryland, specializing in hand-poured candles, apparel, and original character-based designs that celebrate fun, humor, confidence, and a little bit of cheeky mischief.

Founded by Joshua, an Australian-born creative originally from Tamworth, New South Wales, The Aussie Otter combines a love of storytelling, campy humor, and handcrafted products into a brand that doesn't take itself too seriously. While the business officially launched in 2026, its roots go back several years earlier.

The story began in 2022 when Joshua wanted to create something special for his husband, Adam, for their second wedding anniversary. As a self-proclaimed practical gift giver, he designed cartoon versions of the two of them and printed them on hand towels—something useful, personal, and fitting for the traditional cotton anniversary theme. What started as a one-time gift quickly turned into a creative passion.

The candle-making journey began shortly afterward thanks to a Secret Santa exchange. After learning that a coworker loved what she called "man-smelling candles," Joshua decided to make one himself. He created a custom candle label featuring a cartoon version of his own face, complete with cartoon stink lines, and named it Man Smell. What started as a joke gift sparked a new obsession with fragrance blending, candle making, and creating products that make people laugh.

Today, every candle is hand-poured in Baltimore using organic soy wax and carefully selected low-vanillin fragrance oils. Each scent is thoughtfully blended and tested to create fragrances that are bold, memorable, and a little unexpected. Whether inspired by cozy nights, beach days, rugged masculinity, or playful innuendo, every product is designed to bring personality into everyday life.

At its heart, The Aussie Otter is about creating products that feel fun, campy, and just a little bit sexy. Inspired by LGBTQ+ culture, bear and otter communities, and a belief that life is better when you don't take yourself too seriously, our products are designed to spark smiles, start conversations, and celebrate authenticity.

While Joshua is the primary creator behind the brand, his husband Adam plays an important role behind the scenes, helping bring ideas to life and supporting the business every step of the way. Together, they continue to build a brand that celebrates individuality, creativity, and self-expression.

Whether you're shopping for a unique gift, your next favorite candle, or something that simply makes you smile, we're grateful you're here.

Life is too short for boring candles.

Thank you for supporting our small business.

— Joshua & Adam
The Aussie Otter