As Craig Melvin steps into his new role as co-anchor of *Today*, his already demanding work schedule is set to become even more hectic. 

However, the celebrated TV anchor has found a soothing way to balance his busy life with some much-needed relaxation: candle-making. 

This unexpected hobby has become a peaceful escape from the fast-paced world of news broadcasting, 

and Melvin credits it with providing a much-needed mental break.

It all began about a year ago when Melvin’s therapist suggested he explore a creative hobby to help ease the pressures of his professional life. 

“He was like, ‘Well, what do you enjoy?’” Melvin recalled in a recent *People* cover story. 

Initially, Melvin was stumped. “I jog. I play golf. I’m not very good,” he responded. But when his therapist asked what brought him joy, the 45-year-old anchor had a realization. “I really love candles,” he confessed, reflecting on his long-standing fondness for the fragrant flickers. 

From there, Melvin took matters into his own hands. “Next thing you know, I’m churning out dozens of candles a month,” he says with a smile. He taught himself the craft through books and YouTube videos, admitting, “I sound like some sort of freak, but I enjoy it. I find the process cathartic.” 

Melvin has now turned his hobby into a monthly ritual. He “pours” candles three times a month, and his wife, award-winning sportscaster Lindsay Czarniak, has been supportive every step of the way. In fact, she made room for his hobby by creating a special space for him in their garage. “At first I was like, ‘Oh, this is so sweet,’” Melvin jokes. “And then I realized that was her passive-aggressive way of saying, ‘Please get your candle crap out of the kitchen. It’s taking over.’” 

Despite the humor, Melvin acknowledges that his hectic career would be much more challenging without the support of Czarniak, with whom he shares two children: 10-year-old son Delano and 8-year-old daughter Sybil. The couple, who have been married for 13 years, balance their work and family commitments, and Melvin is quick to praise his wife’s efforts. “She’s the best mom,” he says. “Just watching her in action is amazing. Juggling her schedule, juggling my schedule, and always being totally present.”

Melvin credits his success in both his marriage and career to his ability to be “coachable.” Reflecting on advice he received years ago from a boss, he recalls, “She told me, ‘You’re coachable. That’s one of the things that makes you an asset to the newsroom.’” Melvin believes this quality has been crucial in his personal life as well. “In marriage, I’ve been coachable,” he adds with a chuckle.

He also acknowledges the sacrifices his wife makes, especially when he has to wake up at 3:45 a.m. for work or when late-night calls disrupt their sleep. “God bless her because she puts up with a lot,” he says. “When your husband’s getting up for work at ‘O dark 30,’ and he’s not always that quiet, and sometimes the phone rings in the middle of the night, she has put up with a lot for a long time.”

Despite their demanding schedules, Melvin is committed to spending quality time with his children. “I focus on quality, not necessarily quantity,” he says, explaining that he prioritizes meaningful moments with his kids. “Unless I’m traveling, we always have dinner together.” For Melvin, this consistent family time is a cornerstone of his approach to parenting, as he cherishes these everyday connections amid his fast-paced career.

While Melvin’s role as *Today* co-anchor will certainly add more responsibilities to his plate, his commitment to finding balance—whether through candle-making or family moments—remains a top priority. As he continues to navigate his professional journey, he is determined to make time for the things that bring him joy, showing that even amidst the most demanding schedules, taking time for oneself is essential.

Craig Melvin’s ability to juggle the pressures of his career, family life, and personal hobbies is a testament to his resilience and dedication. With his new role at *Today* and a growing candle-making passion, it’s clear that Melvin is embracing life’s challenges with a healthy dose of humor, creativity, and gratitude.

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