Our Story

Our Story

TOTEM began with a simple frustration: incense that looked considered, but wasn't — mass-produced, synthetic, soulless. We wanted something with weight. Something made, not manufactured.

Founded in Manchester, TOTEM set out to bring ritual back to incense burning — pairing pure, natural oud with objects built to hold it. No shortcuts, no fragrance oils, no bamboo cores standing in for craft. Just wood, resin, and the patience to do it properly.

TOTEM also has a mission to elevate the incense burning experience with thoughtful designs and space, as the practice of incense burning is as much about scent as it's about mindset and atmosphere. Our burners are the result of a collaboration with artists and makers who share that belief with us - creating a space for ritual, for something to burn slowly, deliberately, in a sanctuary that's earned its stillness.

This is TOTEM — built in Manchester, rooted in tradition, made for those who appreciate thoughtful designs, rich tradition and want to experience something real.